With the Reno City Council’s adoption of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance on October 8, 2025, many homeowners are asking a practical question: Where in Reno does an ADU make the most sense? Below, I outline the key criteria from the City’s rules, then highlight neighborhoods that often line up well with those criteria—plus a few that are more “borderline.”
Quick refresher: What the new ADU rules require
- Minimum lot size: 5,000 sq. ft. or more.
- Parking: At least one on-site space for the ADU.
- Form: The ADU must be subordinate in height to the primary house; additional design standards apply.
- Process: Streamlined approvals in line with state law (AB396).
Sources: City ADU/zoning pages and local reporting —
Reno Zoning Code,
City zoning code updates,
RGJ timeline,
Nevada Current.
Note: Rules may differ in unincorporated Washoe County (outside Reno city limits). See the County’s ADU Hub.
How I’m evaluating “ADU-friendly” neighborhoods
- Lot size patterns: Areas where typical parcels meet or exceed 5,000 sq. ft.
- Site access: Driveways, side yards, or alleys to help with parking and ADU access.
- Fewer private restrictions: Some HOAs/CC&Rs may add design or use limits—always verify.
- Market fit: Where long-term rental demand or multigenerational living is strong.
Always confirm your property’s zoning/map layer and setbacks with the City before you design.
Top Reno areas that often align well with ADUs
Hidden Valley (Southeast Reno)
Known for larger lots and a suburban feel—many parcels meet the 5,000 sq. ft. threshold and then some, improving ADU feasibility and parking access.
- Neighborhood overview notes larger estates/large lots.
- Low-density character can support detached or attached ADU layouts.
Learn more: Hidden Valley neighborhood guide • Regional Park Master Plan (lot size character)
Old Southwest Reno
Classic Reno with many larger, established lots and alley access in places—useful for parking and privacy planning.
Read more: Old Southwest overview
North Valleys (select tracts)
Portions of North Reno (e.g., Golden Valley/Stead) include subdivisions with mid-to-larger lots. Example: the Estancia map cited average lots around ~8,300 sq. ft.—comfortably ADU-eligible.
Example listing data: Estancia tentative map
Northwest / West University fringe (case-by-case)
Lot sizes vary near UNR and older tracts; however, pockets with curvilinear streets and varying lot sizes can work. Walkability and rental demand are pluses (long-term only).
Historic context on subdivision patterns: UNR Neighborhood Context
“Borderline” or more complex areas
- MidTown & central infill pockets: Great lifestyle, but many parcels are < 5,000 sq. ft. or tight for on-site parking. Still feasible on the right lot.
- HOA communities (various): Some planned communities may have CC&Rs or design rules. City approval ≠ HOA approval—check both.
- City vs. County line: ADU paths differ outside city limits; verify with the County’s ADU Hub.
How to screen a property for ADU potential (fast checklist)
- Confirm jurisdiction: City of Reno vs. unincorporated Washoe County.
- Check zoning & overlays: Use the City’s zoning map.
- Measure lot size: Aim for ≥ 5,000 sq. ft.
- Plan parking: Make room for one on-site space (not in the right-of-way).
- Mind heights & setbacks: Keep ADU subordinate to the main home and within setbacks.
- Budget realistically: Include design, utilities, sitework, and time.
Interested in purchasing an “ADU-ready” property?
I can pull current listings with ADU-friendly traits (lot size, access, and zoning). Give me a call! 📞
Guy Johnson, REALTOR®
Keller Williams Group One, Inc.
📞 (775) 722-4011 | 📧 guyjohnson@kw.com
Related post: Reno Adopts ADU Ordinance: What Homeowners & Investors Should Know