Accessory Structures in Reno, NV (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Reno, Nevada, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Reno allows Accessory Dwelling Units on most single-family lots under RMC Title 18 after 2021 revisions. Detached ADUs up to 1200 sq ft and attached/internal ADUs up to 50 percent of the primary dwelling are permitted with building permits.
Accessory Structures: Adu Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Reno adopted its first comprehensive ADU ordinance on October 8, 2025, implementing Nevada AB 396 (Chapter 365, 2025). The ordinance allows accessory dwelling units citywide in zones permitting single-family homes, with permits processed through Development Services under Reno Municipal Code Chapter 18.03.
Reno ADU Permits
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Reno charges development impact fees on new ADUs under Nevada NRS Chapter 278B. Sewer connection fees apply where a new lateral or capacity allocation is required. Truckee Meadows Water Authority charges separate water connection fees for any new meter. Building permit and plan review fees are based on construction valuation.
Reno ADU Impact Fees
Some RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Reno's 2025 ADU ordinance does not impose a citywide owner-occupancy mandate; the recently adopted RMC Chapter 18.03 ADU provisions treat ADUs as a permitted use subject to building and zoning standards. Short-term rental of an ADU is separately regulated and may impose owner-occupancy through Reno's STR licensing rules.
Reno ADU Owner Occupancy
Some RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Reno permits long-term ADU rentals (28+ days) without separate registration under the 2025 ADU ordinance. Short-term ADU rentals (under 28 days) require a Reno short-term rental permit under the Administrative Code with significant operational restrictions including 660-foot spacing from other STRs and 2,500-foot setbacks from resort hotels.
Reno ADU Rental Restrictions
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Sheds 200 sq ft or smaller without electrical or plumbing are exempt from building permits in Reno per IRC R105.2. Larger or utility-connected sheds require a permit and must meet setbacks (typically 5 ft side/rear in SF zones).
Accessory Structures: Shed Rules
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions to habitable space are allowed in Reno with building permits under IRC provisions. Required off-street parking must be replaced on site. Conversions often register as ADUs subject to ADU rules.
Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports in Reno are permitted accessory structures on most residential lots, subject to standard setbacks and lot coverage. A building permit is required for any permanent carport; fabric canopy carports are generally treated as temporary.
Accessory Structures: Carport Rules
Few RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on permanent foundations can qualify as ADUs in Reno if they meet IRC Appendix Q (minimum 70 sq ft living area, ladder/loft standards). Tiny homes on wheels (RVIA-certified) are treated as RVs and cannot be used as permanent dwellings.
Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes
Some RestrictionsLooking for Washoe County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Reno city rules.
Accessory Structures in Washoe County →