Codes for Equine Businesses

Based on community input, Washoe County will be evaluating standards for horse-related businesses in unincorporated Washoe County (the areas outside the cities of Reno and Sparks). This is anticipated to be a multi-step process. Initial work is described below.

Research Equine Communities Across the U.S. and Identify Opportunities

In March 2024, the County retained a consultant to:

Conduct an analysis of permitting requirements and development standards for equine businesses in various jurisdictions across the U.S.;
Assess where Washoe County falls on the spectrum of regulations; and
Identify common requirements from partner agencies (local, regional, state), and the purpose behind those requirements for equine businesses.

The results of this assessment were detailed in a report, now available online. View the research report.

Gather Initial Community Input

In May 2024, the County launched an online survey and held a series of workshops to better understand public perspectives about equine uses, their potential impacts, and standards for development. There were approximately 150 attendees across the in-person and virtual workshops, and just under 1,900 responses to the online survey.  View the summary of input received.

Next Steps

In addition to the opportunities provided in the research summary, Washoe County will consider input from the survey, workshops, and from other stakeholder agencies to identify possible future updates to Washoe County standards for commercial equine uses. Additional community engagement will be a critical part of this work, as well as multiple public hearings. You are encouraged to stay informed and express your interest in participating in this process by signing up for updates on this project. Additional information will be posted to this webpage as available.

SIGN UP HERE TO RECEIVE UPDATES AND EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST IN PARTICIPATING (Select “Animal Issues – Horses”)