ADU Laws in Nevada (2026)
Nevada state ADU law details, key provisions, preemption status, and recent legislative changes for accessory dwelling units.
Law Name
Nevada AB 383 (2021) — Relating to Land Use
Effective Date
2021-10-01
Preempts Local Ordinances
Yes — state law overrides local restrictions
Has State Law
Yes
Key Provisions
Nevada AB 383 requires Nevada cities with populations over 25,000 to allow ADUs by right in single-family residential zones
ADUs must receive ministerial approval — no discretionary review, variance, or special use permit required
Municipalities may not require owner-occupancy of either the primary or accessory dwelling as a condition of ADU approval
Local regulations may set reasonable design and dimensional standards (setbacks, height, size) but cannot effectively prohibit ADUs
Parking requirements for ADUs may not exceed one additional space per ADU
ADU permitting must be processed within 45 days of complete application submittal
Nevada's rapid population growth in Las Vegas and Reno metropolitan areas drove the housing reform legislation
Legislative History
2021 — AB 383
Nevada required cities with 25,000+ population to allow ADUs by right in single-family residential zones. Effective October 1, 2021. Addresses Nevada's rapid housing growth pressure, particularly in Clark County (Las Vegas) and Washoe County (Reno/Sparks).
Official Sources
What Does Preemption Mean for Local Cities?
Because Nevada law preempts local ordinances, individual cities cannot impose restrictions stricter than the state standard. A city may still have additional administrative requirements, but cannot deny ADU applications that comply with state minimums.
Learn about Nevadazoning preemption →Source: Nevada AB 383 (2021) — Relating to Land Use. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source