Reno single-family setbacks are typically 20 ft front, 5 ft side, 20 ft rear. Eaves may encroach up to 2 ft. Nevada AB 431/SB 331 ADUs get reduced 4-ft side and rear setbacks.
Reno Municipal Code Title 18 (Annexation and Land Development Code) sets zoning and setback requirements for all parcels within the city. Standard single-family (SF-6, SF-9) setbacks are typically 20 feet front, 5 feet side interior, 15 feet street-side on corner lots, and 20 feet rear. Multi-family and mixed-use zones have varying setbacks based on building height and context. Setbacks are measured from the property line to the closest vertical building wall. Permitted encroachments include eaves, chimneys, and bay windows up to 2 feet into a setback. Uncovered porches and steps have separate allowances. Properties in Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) follow PUD-specific standards that may vary from base zoning. New ADUs permitted under AB 431/SB 331 frameworks follow reduced setback standards, typically allowing 4-foot rear and side setbacks for accessory dwelling units. Hillside overlay districts in west Reno have stricter setback and grading provisions.
Building within setback: stop-work order, variance required or removal. Unpermitted encroachment: code enforcement, removal. Plans rejected at permit if setbacks non-compliant.
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See how Reno's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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