Washoe County Housing

Housing affordability and attainability are identified in strategic planning and vision documents as one of the most pressing issues in Washoe County. As of 2026, approximately 50% of renters in Washoe County are cost burdened (e.g. spend more than 30% of household income on housing costs). This statistic is one of many that demonstrates the challenges many citizens face renting or buying a home in the region.

To address these challenges, Washoe County Planning completed a series of development code amendments designed to increase housing affordability and supply. These changes expanded what property owners can develop on their property, including adding missing-middle housing, which is multi-unit housing compatible with single-family development. For more information about different housing types, explore the page below.

Housing Types

Accessory Dwelling Units

On most parcels in Washoe County, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are allowed without any special permits. To explore more information about ADUs, visit our ADU HUB.

Middle Housing

In the suburban and urban parts of Washoe County, middle housing types—including duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes, and cottage courts—are allowed. Visit the middle housing webpage to learn more.

Cottage Courts

Cottage courts are tiny-home style developments of detached single-family homes under 1,200 square feet built as a small community. To learn more about if your property allows cottage courts, visit the cottage court webpage.

Affordable/Attainable Housing

Interested in developing affordable or attainable housing? Washoe County has many new incentives, including density incentives and expedited processing. For more information, view Article 336 of the Washoe County Development Code and schedule an appointment with a planner.

Mixed-use Development

All commercial zones in Washoe County now allow mixed-use with multi-family residential. For more information, view Article 403 of the Washoe County Development Code and schedule an appointment with a planner.

Contact Us

Questions? Reach out to the planner of the day at planning@washoecounty.gov or (775) 328-6100.