Building

Getting Started

I am ready for a building permit...where do I start?

Are you in Unincorporated Washoe County?

Please first determine if your property is indeed located within unincorporated Washoe County. Your property may also be within the "sphere of influence" of the Cities of Reno or Sparks. The location of the property will determine which agency you will need to visit for permitting. Visit Quick Maps to determine your property jurisdiction. 
Click link below for instructions:

 

Is this an allowable project on the property?

Once you have determined that your property is in Unincorporated Washoe County, the next step is to determine if your proposed project is allowed and what is needed to proceed. Start by contacting Washoe County Planning Division at planning@washoecounty.gov to learn more about the land regulations specific to your property. 

Understand the Building Permit Process

Our Project Information Sheet was designed to help guide you through our process, while providing you with the best county experts to assist you. The process includes submission of an application describing your project on a site plan, review of the project by professional technical teams, issuance of a permit that allows for construction and a final inspection of the constructed project.

 

Illustration of the Washoe County Building Permit Process

Building Permit Process

 

Additional Helpful Information

 

 

Call 311 to find resources, ask questions, and utilize Washoe County services. Learn More »
Call 311 to find resources, ask questions, and utilize Washoe County services. Learn More »