Moving to Clark County, NV?
Here are the local rules you need to know before you unpack.
Every city has its own set of local ordinances that go beyond state and federal law. From when you can mow your lawn to whether you can park your RV in the driveway, these rules affect daily life in ways most people do not expect. This guide covers the key ordinances in Clark County across 28 categories and 125 specific rules we track.
๐ Noise Ordinances
Noise rules affect everything from weekend parties to lawn care schedules. Quiet hours, construction restrictions, and barking dog limits vary widely between cities.
Construction Hours
Some RestrictionsClark County allows construction 6 AMโ10 PM in unincorporated areas. Construction during daytime hours is exempt from decibel standards under ยง30.68.020(h)(1). Code Enforcement responds to complaints between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Leaf Blower Rules
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County has no gas leaf blower ban. Lawn maintenance is exempt from Title 30 daytime decibel limits if equipment is in good order. Nuisance use can still be cited under Title 14.
Amplified Music & Events
Some RestrictionsAmplified sound in unincorporated Clark County is capped at 47 dB day and 37 dB night in residential zones at 1000 Hz. The Gaming Enterprise District (Strip) is fully exempt. Special events need a permit.
Decibel Limits
Some RestrictionsTitle 30 Section 30.68.020 uses an octave-band table. At 1000 Hz: residential 47 day / 37 night; business 52 day / 42 night; industrial 67 day / 57 night. A 10 dB exceedance is allowed once per day for up to 15 minutes.
Industrial Noise
Some RestrictionsIndustrial zones allow 67 dB day and 57 dB night at 1000 Hz per Title 30 Section 30.68.020. M-1, M-2, M-3 zones also relax audio rules. Residential limits still control at any residential boundary.
Aircraft Noise
Few RestrictionsAircraft noise is fully exempt from Clark County standards under Section 30.68.020. Harry Reid International runs an FAA Part 150 program. Nellis AFB adds northeast overflights. FAA preempts airspace.
Outdoor Music
Some RestrictionsOutdoor music on private property must stay under 47 dB day and 37 dB night in residential zones per Title 30. The Gaming Enterprise District Strip corridor is exempt. Commercial events need a permit.
Barking Dogs
Some RestrictionsClark County prohibits unnecessary animal noise under Title 14 ยง14.55.020 nuisance standards. Animal Control handles complaints. Dogs must be microchipped and rabies vaccinated. 3-dog household limit without a permit.
Quiet Hours
Some RestrictionsClark County enforces decibel-based noise limits under Title 30 ยง30.68.020. Residential zones: 47 dB daytime, 37 dB nighttime at 1000 Hz. The Las Vegas Strip (Gaming Enterprise District) is fully exempt from noise standards.
๐ Short-Term Rentals
If you plan to rent out your home on Airbnb or VRBO - even occasionally - you need to know the local STR rules before listing.
Noise Rules
Heavy RestrictionsClark County imposes strict STR noise limits under the 2024 ordinance. Quiet hours run 10 PM to 9 AM, outdoor amplified music is banned, and three complaints can revoke your license.
Taxes & Fees
Heavy RestrictionsClark County STRs must collect combined transient lodging tax of roughly 13.38% plus Live Entertainment Tax where applicable. License fees run about 1,000 to 1,500 dollars per year.
Night Caps
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County does not cap annual rental nights for licensed STRs, but imposes a minimum 2-night stay requirement and prohibits STRs entirely in many HOAs and master-planned communities.
Insurance Requirements
Some RestrictionsClark County requires licensed STRs to maintain liability insurance of at least 500,000 dollars per occurrence and name Clark County as additional insured. Airbnb Host Protection alone is not sufficient.
Occupancy Limits
Heavy RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County caps STR occupancy at 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional, with a hard maximum of 16 persons. Infants may be excluded. Daytime visitors are also capped under the 2024 ordinance.
Parking Rules
Heavy RestrictionsThe 2024 Clark County STR ordinance requires one off-street parking space per bedroom. Guests cannot park on the street in most residential zones, and RV or commercial vehicle parking by guests is prohibited.
Registration Rules
Heavy RestrictionsClark County adopted STR ordinance Chapter 7.100 effective July 1, 2023 under AB 363. 1% housing unit cap (~3,000 permits). 1,000-foot separation between STRs. Only 194 permits issued as of August 2025. Federal court injunction currently blocking enforcement.
Permit Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsClark County adopted STR ordinance Chapter 7.100 effective July 1, 2023 under AB 363. 1% housing unit cap (~3,000 permits). 1,000-foot separation between STRs. Only 194 permits issued as of August 2025. Federal court injunction currently blocking enforcement.
๐ฅ Fire Regulations
Fire pit rules, fireworks restrictions, and brush clearance requirements are especially important if you are coming from a state with different fire risk profiles.
Smoke Detectors
Heavy RestrictionsClark County follows the IRC and IFC: working smoke alarms required in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level. CO alarms required near bedrooms with fuel-burning appliances.
Wildfire Zones
Some RestrictionsMost of the urban Las Vegas Valley is not in a state wildfire hazard zone, but the Spring Mountains, Red Rock, Lee Canyon, and Mount Charleston areas are high fire risk with seasonal burn bans.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsOpen burning is prohibited in the Las Vegas Valley PM-10 nonattainment area under Clark County Air Quality Reg 52 and NRS 472.040. Limited ag or ceremonial burning needs permits from DES and Fire.
Brush Clearance
Some RestrictionsClark County Fire enforces Title 13 weed and brush abatement. Defensible space of 30-100 feet required in WUI areas near Red Rock, Mount Charleston, and Lake Mead. Non-compliance triggers county abatement and a lien.
Fireworks
Few RestrictionsSafe-and-sane consumer fireworks are legal in unincorporated Clark County June 28โJuly 4 only under ยง13.04.260. Must carry CA State Fire Marshal seal. All aerial and exploding fireworks remain illegal. This contrasts with total bans in Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas.
Backyard Fires
Some RestrictionsOpen burning is prohibited in urban Clark County. Recreational fires are allowed only in approved fire pits, chimineas, or manufactured devices burning clean fuel, with a max 3 ft by 2 ft pile and an adult present.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsClark County permits recreational fire pits without a permit under DAQ Regulation ยง42.1.2. Must be attended with fire extinguisher available. Gas fire features at commercial occupancies must be certified. 10-foot clearance from combustible construction.
๐ Parking Rules
Parking rules catch more new residents off guard than almost any other ordinance. RV storage, overnight parking bans, and driveway regulations vary significantly.
EV Charging
Few RestrictionsClark County permits residential Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers with a standard electrical permit. Commercial charging station installations require a building permit through Development Services. Clark County and NV Energy offer rebates and incentives.
Overnight Parking
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County does not impose a blanket ban on overnight on-street parking, but vehicles must be currently registered, operable, and not parked in the same spot for more than 72 hours. Enforcement of abandoned or long-term parked vehicles follows NRS 487.
Driveway Rules
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County requires paved driveways in most residential zones and prohibits parking on unimproved (dirt/gravel) surfaces. Driveway widths, approaches, and curb cuts are regulated under Title 30 (Unified Development Code) and Title 14 (Traffic).
Abandoned Vehicles
Some RestrictionsClark County prohibits abandoned vehicles on highways, streets, and public property under ยง14.40.043 and ยง14.04.005. 72-hour standard applies. Property owners can tow unauthorized vehicles after notice per NRS 487.038.
Street Parking Limits
Some RestrictionsClark County limits automobile street parking to 24 hours under ยง14.40.043. RVs prohibited on county roads entirely without permit. Rolling a vehicle a short distance does not reset the time limit. Report at 702-455-4191.
RV & Boat Parking
Heavy RestrictionsRVs are prohibited from parking on county roads entirely without a permit under ยง14.40.043. Permits allow up to 7 days (renewable once per year). RV habitation on streets is unlawful. Boats and trailers also prohibited on residential streets.
Commercial Vehicle Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsClark County prohibits commercial vehicles within 1,000 feet of residential districts under ยง14.40.043. Enforced by LVMPD and Constable's Office. One commercial automobile allowed for home occupations. Report at 702-455-4191.
๐งฑ Fence Regulations
Planning to put up a fence? Height limits, material restrictions, and permit requirements differ by city - and sometimes by which side of the property the fence sits on.
Material Restrictions
Some RestrictionsBarbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fences are prohibited in residential zones of unincorporated Clark County. Masonry and stucco are preferred; chain link is allowed by code but often banned by HOA CCandRs.
Retaining Walls
Heavy RestrictionsClark County requires a building permit for any retaining wall over 4 feet tall measured from footing to top. Engineering is required, and walls holding a surcharge load need a permit regardless of height.
Fence Requirements
Some RestrictionsClark County allows fences up to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3.5 feet in front yards. Corner lot vision triangles cap height at 3.5 feet. HOAs often impose tighter architectural rules.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Few RestrictionsNevada has no good-neighbor fence statute requiring cost-sharing. Clark County treats neighbor fence disputes as civil matters; boundary walls follow the recorded property line and shared walls need mutual agreement.
Pool Barriers
Heavy RestrictionsUnder NRS 461A, any residential pool over 18 inches deep in Clark County must have a 5-foot barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates. Mesh barriers and door alarms may serve as secondary barriers.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County requires a building permit for any fence over 6 feet tall and for most masonry or block walls regardless of height. Wood and wrought iron under 6 feet typically need no permit.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsClark County Title 30 ยง30.64.020 limits single-family residential fences to 6 feet maximum. Fences over 3 feet not permitted within front yard setbacks. Gated communities allow 8-foot perimeter walls. Administrative deviation to 8 feet possible.
๐ Animal Ordinances
Pet owners and aspiring chicken keepers should check local animal ordinances before signing a lease or closing on a home.
Exotic Pets
Heavy RestrictionsClark County Title 10 Section 10.36 bans wild and exotic animals โ big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles, crocodilians, and F1 wolf hybrids. Most reptiles, rodents, and birds are allowed. NRS 503 also applies.
Dog Leash Laws
Some RestrictionsTitle 10 Section 10.36 requires dogs off their owner property to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet controlled by a competent person. Off-leash only at designated dog parks. Fines start at $100.
Chickens & Livestock
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County allows up to 20 chickens on small lots and more on rural-estate zoning, per Title 30. Roosters are restricted in most residential zones. Livestock require R-E, R-U, or agricultural zoning.
Beekeeping
Some RestrictionsBeekeeping is permitted in unincorporated Clark County under Title 10 and Title 30 with hive setbacks and annual registration with the Nevada Department of Agriculture. Africanized bee concerns apply.
Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County does NOT restrict dogs by breed. NRS 202.500 dangerous dog law applies based on behavior. Title 10 Section 10.08 enforces responsible ownership regardless of breed.
Livestock
Heavy RestrictionsHorses, cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs are allowed only in R-E, R-U, and agricultural zones per Title 30. Minimum lot sizes, shelter, and mandatory shade required. Pigs restricted outside ag zoning.
Wildlife Feeding
Some RestrictionsFeeding big game, predators, and wild burros is prohibited under NRS 503 and federal Red Rock Canyon NCA and BLM rules. Backyard bird feeders allowed. Feeding feral cats follows Title 10 TNR framework.
๐ฟ Landscaping Rules
From grass height limits to tree removal permits, landscaping rules can surprise new homeowners, especially in drought-prone areas with water restrictions.
Native Plants
Few RestrictionsClark County encourages Mojave native and desert-adapted landscaping through SNWA Water Smart Landscapes rebates. No county rule bans native plants, and front-yard xeriscape is allowed under Title 30.
Weed Ordinances
Heavy RestrictionsClark County enforces weed abatement under Title 10.30 plus Regulation 41 dust control. Tumbleweeds and cheatgrass over 6 inches are cited quickly; dust from lots over 5,000 sq ft needs a Dust Control Permit.
Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsRainwater harvesting for non-potable outdoor use at single-family homes is legal in Nevada under AB 138 (2017). Clark County allows roof-based collection; indoor or potable use still needs state review.
Artificial Turf
Some RestrictionsArtificial turf is allowed in Clark County as an SNWA-approved water-saving alternative. Products must meet Title 30 standards for color, pile height, and permeability. AB 356 drives conversion by end of 2026.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsClark County requires property owners to trim trees overhanging public sidewalks to 8 ft clearance and streets to 14 ft. Private trees across property lines follow Nevada common law: neighbors may trim to the line.
Grass Height Limits
Some RestrictionsClark County requires property owners to keep weeds, grass, and dry vegetation under 6 inches under Title 10 nuisance rules. Overgrown yards are a desert fire hazard and trigger abatement quickly.
Water Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsClark County follows SNWA mandatory water conservation rules due to Lake Mead crisis. AB 356 bans ornamental grass in commercial and HOA common areas by December 2026. Water Smart rebates incentivize turf removal.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Few RestrictionsClark County has no heritage tree ordinance or specific tree removal permit. Existing mature tree preservation is encouraged but not mandated for single-family residential. Commercial redevelopment may get reduced tree ratios for preservation.
๐ผ Home Business
Working from home is common, but running a business from home often requires permits and must comply with zoning restrictions on customer traffic and signage.
Home Daycare
Some RestrictionsHome daycare in Clark County requires state licensing through Nevada DPBH plus a county home occupation permit. Family homes allow 6 children; group homes 7-12 with an assistant.
Zoning Restrictions
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County allows home occupations in most residential zones under Title 30, but limits them to low-impact activities that keep the dwelling residential in character.
Signage Rules
Heavy RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County generally prohibits all exterior signage for home occupations. Title 30 requires the business to show no visible evidence from the street.
Home Occupation Permits
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County requires a home occupation permit plus a county business license to operate any business from a residence, reviewed against Title 30 standards.
Customer Traffic Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County heavily restricts client visits to home occupations under Title 30. The rule of thumb is that a home business cannot generate traffic beyond what is typical for a single-family residence.
Cottage Food Operations
Some RestrictionsNevada authorizes cottage food operations under NRS 446.866 for shelf-stable homemade foods. Clark County requires Health District registration plus a home occupation permit.
๐ Swimming Pools & Spas
Pool ownership comes with safety fencing requirements, permit obligations, and drainage rules that vary by jurisdiction.
Pool Permits
Heavy RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County requires a building permit for all in-ground swimming pools, spas, and any pool exceeding 24 inches deep. Plans, barrier compliance, and drain anti-entrapment per federal VGB Act are required.
Hot Tub Rules
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County requires a permit for any hot tub or spa holding water deeper than 24 inches. A locking safety cover satisfying ASTM F1346 can substitute for a perimeter fence on many residential spas.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County requires every residential swimming pool, spa, or artificial body of water to be enclosed by a non-climbable, four-sided barrier at least 60 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Rules are codified at Clark County Code Chapter 22.20 (Swimming Pool and Spa Code), which adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) with Southern Nevada Amendments. The county adopted the 2024 ISPSC effective January 11, 2026.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County regulates residential pool safety through Title 22 Chapter 22.20, which adopts the Southern Nevada Swimming Pool & Spa Code (SNPSC) โ based on the International Swimming Pool & Spa Code (ISPSC). SNPSC Section 305 requires a residential barrier at least 60 inches tall (or 8-ft non-climbable measured inside), with no more than 4 inches of clearance below.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County treats an above-ground pool as a regulated swimming pool under Title 22 Chapter 22.20 once it can hold water more than 24 inches deep, triggering the Southern Nevada Swimming Pool & Spa Code. The pool wall can serve as part of the barrier when it is at least 48 inches tall, but a removable or lockable ladder is required to prevent access.
๐๏ธ Accessory Structures
Thinking about an ADU, shed, or garage conversion? Local rules on accessory structures have changed rapidly in recent years, especially in California.
Shed Rules
Few RestrictionsSheds under 200 square feet and 12 feet tall generally need no building permit in Clark County but must meet Title 30 setback rules. Larger sheds or any shed with electrical or plumbing require a permit.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsCarports in Clark County require a building permit when attached to the house or over 200 square feet. Freestanding metal carports must meet the 90 mph Las Vegas Valley wind design and Title 30 setbacks.
Tiny Homes
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County permits tiny homes under Title 30 (Unified Development Code) following Nevada SB 150 (2021), which requires Clark County to designate at least one zoning district for tiny houses as ADUs, as single-family residences, and in tiny house parks. The county code defines a tiny home as a detached single-family dwelling built on a foundation, minimum 150 sq ft, per the International Residential Code.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County regulates garage conversions to habitable space under Title 30 (Unified Development Code) and the locally adopted 2018 International Residential Code. Conversions to accessory apartments are permitted in the R-U, R-A, R-E, R-D, R-1, R-T, R-2, H-2, and H-1 zones, but unlike California, Clark County does not have a state mandate prohibiting replacement parking when a garage is converted.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Clark County regulates Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs, locally called Accessory Apartments) under Title 30 (Unified Development Code). Recent code amendments have eliminated the minimum lot size requirement, removed the one-bedroom cap, and now explicitly allow basement ADUs. ADUs are permitted in the R-U, R-A, R-E, R-D, R-1, R-T, R-2, H-2, and H-1 zoning districts.
๐ Environmental Rules
Flood Zones
Heavy RestrictionsClark County participates in NFIP and enforces Title 28 Flood Damage Prevention in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas. The CCRFCD maintains regional flood channels and drainage master plans.
Grading & Drainage
Some RestrictionsClark County grading follows Title 22 and Title 30. Permits required above 50 cubic yards, 5-foot slopes, or in flood zones. Projects over 5 acres need a CCRFCD drainage study using the HCDDM manual.
Erosion Control
Some RestrictionsClark County erosion control follows the CCRFCD HCDDM and NDEP Construction Stormwater permit. Dust (PM10) is regulated by the Clark County Dept of Environment and Sustainability under Section 90 and 94.
Stormwater Management
Some RestrictionsClark County runs an MS4 NPDES stormwater program through Title 24 and CCRFCD. Construction sites of 1 acre or more need SWPPPs and NDEP Construction Stormwater permits. Outfall drains to Lake Mead.
โ๏ธ Solar Energy
Panel Permits
Some RestrictionsClark County requires building and electrical permits for all solar PV installations. Online permits available through the Citizen Access Portal. NV Energy interconnection is governed by PUCN.
HOA Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsNevada NRS 111.239 and NRS 116.320 are among the strongest solar access laws in the country. Clark County HOAs cannot ban rooftop solar but may impose reasonable aesthetic restrictions under statute.
๐ชง Sign Regulations
Holiday Displays
Few RestrictionsClark County does not have a specific holiday decoration ordinance, but seasonal displays must comply with property maintenance, noise, electrical safety, and public right-of-way rules. Displays must not obstruct sidewalks or create traffic hazards.
Garage Sale Signs
Some RestrictionsClark County permits garage sale signs on private property with owner consent. Placement in the public right-of-way, on utility poles, traffic signs, or medians is prohibited. Signs must be removed promptly after the sale ends.
Political Signs
Few RestrictionsClark County generally permits political campaign signs on private property with size and duration limits. Signs are typically allowed 60 days before an election and must be removed within 7 to 10 days after. First Amendment protections apply.
๐๏ธ Property Maintenance
Property Blight
Heavy RestrictionsClark County Title 11 (Abatement of Nuisances) prohibits property blight including junk accumulation, dead landscaping, graffiti, broken structures, and inoperable vehicles. The Code Enforcement Public Response Office investigates complaints and can abate properties at owner expense.
Vacant Lot Maintenance
Heavy RestrictionsClark County Title 11 requires owners of vacant lots to control weeds, trash, debris, and illegal dumping. Desert parcels are particular dust and fire risk sources. Uncontrolled vacant lots are a major Code Enforcement complaint category in unincorporated areas.
Trash Bin Storage
Some RestrictionsClark County Code Title 11 requires residential trash and recycling bins to be stored out of public view between collection days. Improper storage is a common property maintenance complaint enforced by Code Enforcement in the Las Vegas Valley.
๐ก Outdoor Lighting
Dark Sky Rules
Heavy RestrictionsClark County Title 30.64 regulates outdoor lighting with shielded fixture, BUG rating, and color temperature standards. Dark-sky protections are strongest near Red Rock Canyon and the Spring Mountains.
Light Trespass
Some RestrictionsClark County addresses light trespass through Title 30.64 lighting standards and Title 14 nuisance rules. Typical property-line limit is 0.1 to 0.5 footcandle. Glare into neighbor windows is prohibited.
๐ Rental Property Rules
Rent Control
Few RestrictionsThere is no rent control in Clark County. Nevada has no statewide rent control and no state law authorizing local rent control ordinances. Landlords may raise rent by any amount with 60 days written notice for month-to-month tenancies under NRS 118A.
Just Cause Eviction
Few RestrictionsNevada does not have just-cause eviction protections for private residential tenants. Under NRS 40.251, a landlord may terminate a month-to-month tenancy with 30 days no-cause notice (60 days if over 60 years old or disabled). Clark County has no separate protections.
Rental Registration
Some RestrictionsClark County requires a business license for owners operating residential rental properties in unincorporated areas. Short-term rentals (less than 31 days) require a separate short-term rental license. There is no general landlord inspection registry for long-term rentals.
๐๏ธ Trash & Recycling
Pickup Rules & Schedules
Some RestrictionsRepublic Services is the franchised waste hauler for unincorporated Clark County. Residential customers receive weekly trash pickup and bi-weekly recycling pickup. Carts must be placed curbside by the scheduled day and removed the same day.
Bulk Item Disposal
Few RestrictionsRepublic Services offers bulk disposal pickup to unincorporated Clark County residents, typically with limits on item count and size per event. Items like furniture, mattresses, appliances, and yard debris are eligible; hazardous waste, tires, and construction debris require special facilities.
Recycling Requirements
Few RestrictionsClark County offers single-stream recycling through Republic Services, collected in a separate 95-gallon cart every other week. Recycling is voluntary for residential customers but strongly encouraged. Accepted items include paper, cardboard, plastics #1 and #2, glass, and metal cans.
Bin Placement Rules
Some RestrictionsTrash and recycling carts in unincorporated Clark County must be stored out of public view except on collection days. Carts may not be placed at the curb more than 24 hours before pickup and must be removed within 24 hours after collection.
๐ Drone Rules
Commercial Drones
Heavy RestrictionsCommercial drones in Clark County require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Class B airspace covers most of the Las Vegas Valley, requiring LAANC authorization. The Las Vegas Strip corridor and Nellis AFB airspace are heavily restricted. Local property permissions also apply.
Recreational Drones
Some RestrictionsRecreational drones in Clark County must comply with FAA 14 CFR Part 107 and the FAA recreational exception. Flight over Clark County parks is generally prohibited. Las Vegas airspace and the Strip are heavily restricted. Registration is required for drones over 0.55 pounds.
Park Drone Restrictions
Some RestrictionsDrone operations are prohibited in all Clark County Parks unless flown in a designated drone-approved park, by special-use permit, or with written permission of the Parks & Recreation Director. As of February 2026, Clark County expanded its list of drone-permitted parks from 8 to 28 following a campaign by local drone hobbyists. Operations must still comply with FAA Part 107 and NRS 493.109's 5-mile airport buffer rule.
๐ Curfew Laws
Juvenile Curfew
Heavy RestrictionsClark County enforces one of the strictest juvenile curfews in Nevada. Minors under 18 are prohibited from public places from 10 pm to 5 am on weekdays and midnight to 5 am on weekends. Curfew near the Las Vegas Strip is even more restrictive.
Park Curfew
Some RestrictionsClark County regional parks and trails are generally closed from dusk or 10 pm until 6 am or sunrise. Entering parks during curfew hours is a trespass violation. Posted hours vary by individual park.
๐ Building Setbacks & Zoning
Setback Rules
Some RestrictionsClark County sets setbacks through Title 30 UDC. R-1 typically requires 20-foot front, 5-foot side, and 15-foot rear setbacks. Master-planned communities often tighten these through Specific Plans.
Lot Coverage Limits
Some RestrictionsClark County caps lot coverage under Title 30 UDC. R-1 zones typically allow 50 percent building coverage. Impervious surface limits apply in FEMA flood zones and sensitive watershed areas.
Structure Height Limits
Some RestrictionsClark County caps residential structures at 35 feet in most R-1 zones under Title 30. Height near Harry Reid International Airport is further restricted by FAA Part 77 surfaces and Airport Environs Overlay.
๐๏ธ HOA Rules
Dispute Resolution
Some RestrictionsNevada NRS 38.310 requires most Clark County HOA disputes to go through NRED mediation or arbitration before court. The NRED Ombudsman provides free information and referral for owners.
CC&R Enforcement
Heavy RestrictionsNevada NRS 116.31031 requires Clark County HOAs to give written notice, cure opportunity, and hearing before fines. Selective enforcement violates NRS 116.31065. Fines capped unless health or safety.
Board Procedures
Heavy RestrictionsNevada NRS 116.3108 requires Clark County HOA boards to hold open meetings with posted agendas and 10 days advance notice. Executive sessions are sharply limited. Unit owners have broad speaking rights.
Assessment & Dues
Heavy RestrictionsNevada NRS 116.3115 requires Clark County HOA budgets to be ratified in open meeting. Owners can veto by majority vote. Late assessments may trigger non-judicial foreclosure under NRS 116.31162.
Architectural Review
Heavy RestrictionsClark County HOAs run architectural review committees under NRS 116.3102 and 116.31065. Owners submit written applications before exterior changes and receive written decisions, typically within 60 days.
๐ง Building Safety
Lead Paint
Some RestrictionsClark County follows federal EPA RRP rule (40 CFR 745) for lead paint in pre-1978 housing. Contractors must be EPA-certified. Pre-1978 housing is limited in the Las Vegas Valley due to post-1978 growth.
Elevator Maintenance
Heavy RestrictionsNevada DIR Mechanical Compliance Section regulates Clark County elevators under NRS 455C. Annual inspections are required. Las Vegas Strip casinos contain thousands of regulated conveyances.
Pest Control
Some RestrictionsClark County pest control is regulated by the Nevada Dept of Agriculture under NRS 555.2605. Applicators must be licensed. Common pests include scorpions, black widows, termites, and African honey bees.
Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed
Some RestrictionsClark County scaffolding follows Nevada OSHA (NAC 618) adopting 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L. Scaffolds over 4 feet need guardrails, fall protection, and competent-person inspection. Desert heat and wind add hazards.
๐ถ Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules
Sidewalk Repair
Some RestrictionsIn unincorporated Clark County, sidewalk repair within the public right-of-way is generally the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. Clark County Public Works oversees specifications and permit requirements for sidewalk work within the right-of-way.
Obstruction Rules
Some RestrictionsClark County prohibits obstructing public sidewalks with vegetation, merchandise, signs, trash bins, or vehicles. Vegetation must be trimmed to maintain a clear pedestrian path and minimum overhead clearance. Violations are enforced under Title 11 and Title 18.
๐ข Noise from Specific Sources
Generator Noise
Some RestrictionsPortable and standby generators must meet 47 dB day and 37 dB night residential limits at the property line per Title 30. Emergency use during an outage is exempt. Test runs should be daytime only.
HVAC & Mechanical Noise
Some RestrictionsResidential HVAC condensers must stay under 47 dB day and 37 dB night at the property line per Title 30. Desert 115 F heat runs AC 24/7, so compliance usually means setback or a sound blanket.
Bar & Nightclub Noise
Some RestrictionsBars outside the Gaming Enterprise District must meet 47 dB day and 37 dB night at residential property lines per Title 30. Inside the GED Strip, clubs are fully exempt. License review can deny renewal.
๐ Code Violation Reporting
Common Violations
Some RestrictionsThe most common code violations in unincorporated Clark County include unpermitted construction, blighted properties, graffiti, illegal short-term rentals, zoning violations, junk vehicles, and property maintenance issues. Clark County Code Titles 9, 11, 14, 22, and 30 govern these violations.
How to Report
Some RestrictionsClark County Code Enforcement and Public Response Office handles complaints for unincorporated Clark County. Reports can be filed by phone at (702) 455-4191, by fax, by mail, or through the online complaint portal. Anonymous complaints are accepted.
Response Times
Some RestrictionsClark County Code Enforcement prioritizes cases by severity. Health and safety hazards receive expedited attention. Standard complaints are generally investigated within 7โ30 days. The enforcement process begins with education and notices before escalating to citations.
๐ Invasive Plant Rules
Bamboo Restrictions
Few RestrictionsClark County does not have a specific ordinance restricting or banning bamboo. The desert climate of southern Nevada naturally limits bamboo growth, making it uncommon. Bamboo that spreads to neighboring properties could be addressed as a nuisance under Clark County Title 11.
Prohibited Species
Some RestrictionsNevada's Department of Agriculture maintains a noxious weed list (NAC 555.010) that applies to Clark County. Key invasive species in southern Nevada include tamarisk (salt cedar), giant reed, and Sahara mustard. The SNWA Water Smart Plant List guides recommended species for desert landscaping.
Front Yard Gardens
Some RestrictionsFront yard vegetable and edible gardens are permitted in unincorporated Clark County, subject to water conservation requirements. Nevada law (AB 356, 2021) bans nonfunctional turf, and Clark County enforces strict water waste ordinances through the SNWA. Xeriscaped and drip-irrigated gardens are encouraged.
๐ท Privacy & Surveillance
Security Camera Rules
Few RestrictionsSecurity cameras are legal on private property in Clark County. Nevada is a one-party consent state for in-person audio recording (NRS 200.620), meaning you can record conversations you are part of. Video surveillance in areas visible to the public is generally legal. Cameras must not record areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy (NRS 200.604).
Recording & Consent Laws
Some RestrictionsNevada has a split consent framework: one-party consent for in-person conversations (NRS 200.620) but all-party consent for telephone communications (NRS 200.650). Illegally recording or disclosing conversations is a felony punishable by 1โ4 years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.
Privacy Screening
Few RestrictionsIn unincorporated Clark County, fences up to 6 feet tall do not require a building permit. Fences over 6 feet require a permit. Clark County Title 30 governs fence height, materials, and setback requirements. Block walls are common in the Las Vegas Valley due to wind conditions.
๐ Permit Requirements
Renovation Permits
Some RestrictionsMost renovation work in unincorporated Clark County requires a building permit. Cosmetic work (painting, flooring, cabinets) is exempt. Structural changes, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work all require permits. Clark County adopts the International Building Code and International Residential Code.
Shed & Outbuilding Permits
Few RestrictionsIn unincorporated Clark County, one-story detached accessory sheds of 200 square feet or less do not require a building permit, provided they have no plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems. Sheds over 200 square feet require a permit. All sheds must comply with zoning setback requirements.
Fence Permits
Few RestrictionsFences up to 6 feet tall are exempt from building permits in unincorporated Clark County. Fences over 6 feet require a permit. All fences must comply with Title 30 zoning setback and height restrictions. Pool barrier fences have specific safety requirements.
Deck & Patio Permits
Some RestrictionsDecks and platforms 30 inches or less above grade are exempt from permits in Clark County when accessory to a single-family dwelling. All patio covers, carports, and shade structures โ whether freestanding or attached โ require building permits. Concrete slab patios at grade generally do not require permits.
Overall: What to Expect in Clark County
Clark County has 125 ordinances on file across 28 categories. Of these, 20 are rated permissive, 72 moderate, and 33 strict. This gives you a general sense of how tightly regulated daily life is in Clark County compared to other cities.
Rules can change, and enforcement varies. Always verify specific requirements with the county directly before making major decisions like building a fence, listing on Airbnb, or starting a home business.