Reno has no specific ordinance regulating residential pellet or wood smokers. Washoe County Air Quality Management Division issues mandatory no-burn days when air quality is poor, prohibiting outdoor wood burning and including residential wood smokers. Propane and natural-gas smokers are exempt. RMC Chapter 8.22 (Nuisances) addresses extreme smoke complaints.
Reno Municipal Code does not regulate residential outdoor cooking smokers. The Washoe County Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) issues stage 1 and stage 2 mandatory no-burn days when particulate (PM-2.5) levels are elevated, typically during winter inversions. On declared no-burn days, all outdoor wood and solid-fuel burning is prohibited, which includes residential wood and pellet smokers. Propane and natural-gas smokers are exempt. Reno noise ordinance under RMC Chapter 8.22 sets residential limits of approximately 65 dBA daytime and 49 dBA nighttime (10 PM-6 AM); this could theoretically apply to a smoker fan running overnight. Excessive smoke that crosses property lines for extended periods could be cited under RMC 8.22 nuisance provisions. HOA CC&Rs in Somersett, ArrowCreek, Caughlin Ranch, and Damonte Ranch may impose additional restrictions.
Washoe County AQMD no-burn day violations carry civil penalties starting at $50 per violation with escalation for repeat offenses. Reno nuisance violations under RMC Chapter 8.22 may reach civil penalties enforceable through code compliance. HOA covenant violations follow CC&R fine schedules, typically $25-$250 per violation.
Reno, NV
Reno borders open desert and Peavine Mountain, so coyote sightings near homes are common. The city prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife, requires secure...
Reno, NV
Reno limits households to a reasonable number of dogs and cats, with code enforcement and Washoe County Regional Animal Services investigating hoarding compl...
Reno, NV
Reno Fire Department enforces International Fire Code propane storage limits, capping residential aboveground tanks and requiring setbacks from buildings, ig...
Reno, NV
Reno has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on residential property. RMC Chapter 8.22 (Nuisances) requires pro...
Reno, NV
Reno has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, lighting hours, and blower noise are governed by HOA architectural revie...
Reno, NV
Reno has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Timing, brightness, and animation are governed by subdivision CC&Rs and HOA covenants....
See how Reno's smoker rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.