Elko County, NV Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Elko County Code § 3-1-4(A) adopts the 2018 Northern Nevada Amendments as modified, and paragraph 1 lists structures excluded from any permit requirement. First, agricultural structures not used for human habitation containing less than 400 square feet, when used for agricultural use as defined by NRS 361A.030. Second, all one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, animal shelters, play houses and similar uses, not used for human habitation, containing less than 200 square feet and not exceeding a 10 foot eave wall height, citing IBC and IRC section 105.2.1.

Third, non-structural cosmetic remodeling valued at less than $5,000 including material and labor, which does not change the existing floor plan or the use or occupancy of the structure. Fourth, sidewalks, driveways and uncovered decks not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below, when the deck is not the primary exit from a residence. Private stairways of 30 inches or less in height can have a handrail on one side only. Agricultural hoop houses and high tunnels, used exclusively for live plants, are also excluded, but electrical, mechanical and sanitary plumbing installation in them is not exempt, and zoning rules can still apply.

For everything else, permit fees are set by resolution of the Board of Commissioners under § 3-1-4(A)(3) and § 3-1-5(A), with a plan review fee of thirty five percent of the building permit fee for a residential dwelling. Property in travel zones 1, 2 and 3 pays a travel fee of $20, $40 or $60. Section 3-1-4(A)(2) requires a certificate of occupancy before a building in groups A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R, S or U is used or occupied or its occupancy classification changes.

Under § 3-1-4(E), where a governmental entity or utility provides water or sewer service, no permit issues without evidence of paid connection fees. State Public Works Board projects still apply to the Building and Safety Division under § 3-1-4(F), without charge. No permit issues for hazardous waste facilities under § 3-1-6.