Washoe County, NV Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- On or within lot line
- Allowed, subject to height
- County utility easements
- No fencing across
- Access easements
- No fencing across
- Private drainage easement
- County Engineer may approve
- Boundary disputes
- Civil matter, not county
Summary
Unincorporated Washoe County lets fences be built anywhere within or on the lot line, subject to height limits, but bars fencing across county utility, sewer, water, drainage and access easements. Cost-sharing between neighbors is a private matter.
Fences generally may be constructed anywhere within or on the lot line of your property... Fencing is not allowed in or across public or private access easements... Fencing is not allowed in or across easements maintained by Washoe County (i.e., sanitary sewer, waterline, storm drainage easements).
Full Breakdown
Under the county Fences and Retaining Walls standards, fences generally may be constructed anywhere within or on the lot line of your property, subject to the height limits in WCC 110.406.50. However, fencing is not allowed in or across public or private access easements, nor across drainage and utility easements maintained by Washoe County (sanitary sewer, waterline, storm drainage). Fencing may be allowed across private drainage easements on rear or side lot lines if drainage is perpetuated and the County Engineer approves. Fencing is barred within floodways. Washoe County does not adjudicate boundary or cost-sharing disputes between neighbors; those are civil matters under Nevada law.
Violations & Fines
Fences placed in county-maintained easements may be ordered removed at the owner's expense; the County Engineer must approve any encroachment allowed by exception.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fence along my exact property line?
Who decides a shared-fence cost split?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Washoe County
Compare Washoe County to another location·View the Nevada fence regulations overview
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