Do I need a adu permit in Reno?

Yes. Reno requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.

How long does adu permit approval take in Reno?

Processing times in Reno vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact Reno Development Services for current timelines.

What documents are required for a adu permit in Reno?

Reno requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural and Structural Drawings, Site Plan and Grading Plan, Proof of Property Ownership, and others. See the full list above for details.

What happens if I build without a adu permit in Reno?

Building without a permit in Reno can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.

Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Reno?

Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Reno's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.

How much does a adu permit cost in Reno?

ADU permit fees in Reno typically range from $3,900 to $11,220, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Reno.

ADU Permit Submission Checklist in Reno, Nevada

Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Reno, Nevada — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.

Build My Permit Packet View Requirements

Key Facts

Permit required: Yes
Submission method: Online
Typical fee range: $3,900 – $11,220
Review time: Varies by jurisdiction
Inspections: 8 inspections required

VerifiedLast verified: Feb 15, 20262 verified sources

ADU Permit Checklist

Reno — 6 required, 0 optional

Forms & Applications(1)

Building Permit ApplicationREQUIRED✓[1][2]
Completed City of Reno building permit application form with project details, property location, estimated valuation, and owner/contractor certification

Plans & Diagrams(3)

Architectural and Structural DrawingsREQUIRED✓[3][4]
Complete architectural and structural drawings prepared by Nevada-licensed architect or engineer and sealed with professional stamp. Include floor plans, elevations, sections, and construction details.
Site Plan and Grading PlanREQUIRED✓[5][6]
Site plan showing property boundaries, existing and proposed structures, setbacks, parking layout, driveway access, utility locations, and drainage/grading plan
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing PlansREQUIRED✓[9][10]
MEP plans showing separate water supply, sewer connection, electrical service with independent meter, and gas/HVAC connections for ADU independent operation

Supporting Documents(2)

Proof of Property OwnershipREQUIRED✓[7][8]
Current deed, title report, or notarized authorization letter from property owner documenting ownership and consent to ADU construction
Snow Load and Wind Design CertificationREQUIRED✓[11][12]
Engineer certification that ADU design meets Nevada and Reno requirements for roof snow load (35 psf ground snow load), wind design, and high elevation considerations

This checklist is for reference only. Requirements may change — always verify with Reno before submission.

Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet

Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Reno, Nevada — tailored to your project details.

Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
Fee breakdown: $1,300–$6,800 estimated total
Step-by-step Reno Community Development Department portal submission guide
Inspection prep checklist (8 items)
Personalized for your specific project details

Build My Permit Packet

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Required Documents

Reno requires the following documents for this permit application.

Building Permit Application

Completed City of Reno building permit application form with project details, property location, estimated valuation, and owner/contractor certification

Architectural and Structural Drawings

Complete architectural and structural drawings prepared by Nevada-licensed architect or engineer and sealed with professional stamp. Include floor plans, elevations, sections, and construction details.

Site Plan and Grading Plan

Site plan showing property boundaries, existing and proposed structures, setbacks, parking layout, driveway access, utility locations, and drainage/grading plan

Proof of Property Ownership

Current deed, title report, or notarized authorization letter from property owner documenting ownership and consent to ADU construction

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Plans

MEP plans showing separate water supply, sewer connection, electrical service with independent meter, and gas/HVAC connections for ADU independent operation

Snow Load and Wind Design Certification

Engineer certification that ADU design meets Nevada and Reno requirements for roof snow load (35 psf ground snow load), wind design, and high elevation considerations

Permit Process

Follow these steps to submit your permit application through Reno Community Development Department.

1
Verify ADU Zoning Eligibility
Contact Reno Planning and Development Services to confirm property zoning allows ADU construction and obtain zoning verification. Verify lot size, existing structures, and parcel-specific restrictions.
You'll need: Proof of Property Ownership
2
Submit Building Permit Application and Plans
Submit complete building permit application package with sealed architectural, MEP, and site plans to Reno Community Development Department via online portal or in-person.
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural and Structural Drawings, Site Plan and Grading Plan, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Plans, Snow Load and Wind Design Certification
3
Plan Review and Department Coordination
Reno conducts plan review for code compliance including Nevada building code, snow load/wind requirements, utility capacity, fire-life safety, and drainage adequacy.
4
Revise Plans and Address Review Comments
Modify plans to address any plan review comments or code deficiencies. Resubmit revised plans for final approval.
5
Permit Issuance and Final Approval
Obtain final plan approval from all departments. Pay permit, plan review, and inspection fees. Receive building permit authorization for ADU construction.
6
Construction and Mandatory Inspections
Schedule and obtain required inspections at each construction stage: foundation, framing, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, mechanical rough-in, and final occupancy inspection.

Fees and Timeline

Fee Breakdown

Fee	Range	Confidence
ADU Permit Fee	$2,600 – $6,800	Verified
Plan Review Fee	$1,300 – $4,420	Verified

Inspections Required

Foundation and footing inspection for proper depth, bearing

Foundation and footing inspection for proper depth, bearing capacity, and frost protection appropriate to Reno elevation

Framing and structural member inspection for code compliance

Framing and structural member inspection for code compliance and snow load design verification

Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection for separat

Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection for separate metering and safety

Plumbing rough-in and water/sewer connection inspection for

Plumbing rough-in and water/sewer connection inspection for independent ADU service

Mechanical system and HVAC installation inspection including

Mechanical system and HVAC installation inspection including ventilation adequacy

Roof assembly inspection for snow load and wind design compl

Roof assembly inspection for snow load and wind design compliance

Exterior wall assembly and weatherproofing inspection for hi

Exterior wall assembly and weatherproofing inspection for high elevation climate

Final walkthrough and occupancy authorization inspection

Authority Sources

Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.

Reno Community Development Department

Last verified: February 15, 2026

2 sources referenced

Official page

Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 278C (Accessory Dwelling Units)

Verified February 15, 2026

Portal guide

City of Reno Development Services - Permit Portal

Verified February 15, 2026

Official page

Reno ADU Development Requirements and Guide

Verified February 15, 2026

Fee schedule

City of Reno Master Fee Schedule for Building

Verified February 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a adu permit in Reno?: Yes. Reno requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
How long does adu permit approval take in Reno?: Processing times in Reno vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact Reno Development Services for current timelines.
What documents are required for a adu permit in Reno?: Reno requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural and Structural Drawings, Site Plan and Grading Plan, Proof of Property Ownership, and others. See the full list above for details.
What happens if I build without a adu permit in Reno?: Building without a permit in Reno can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Reno?: Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Reno's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
How much does a adu permit cost in Reno?: ADU permit fees in Reno typically range from $3,900 to $11,220, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Reno.