Washoe County Shed, Fence, Deck, and Wall Permit Guide

Washoe County gives practical exemption examples for small sheds, fences, retaining walls, patios, driveways, decks, pools, and door or window replacements.

Permit takeaway

Washoe County lists examples of no-building-permit-required work such as small sheds under 200 square feet without utilities, certain fences, low retaining walls, patios and driveways less than 30 inches above ground, and small decks that meet all listed limits.

Zoning and placement

Setback requirements, front-yard fence limits, pool barriers, required screening, septic systems, accessible routes, terraced walls, surcharge, and easements can remove or limit an exemption.

Building and trade review

Decks may be exempt only when not exceeding 200 square feet, not more than 30 inches high, and not serving the required building exit door.

Call before applying when

Call before building if the shed has utilities, the fence is in the front yard or used as a pool barrier, the wall retains extra weight, the patio is over septic, or the deck serves an exit.

Documents to prepare

• Shed size and utility status
• Fence height and purpose
• Deck size, height, and exit relationship
• Wall surcharge or terracing information

Inspection planning

• Verify exemption with the county
• Check planning setbacks
• Apply if any limit is exceeded
• Keep exemption notes with home records

Official sources

• Washoe County What Requires a Permit
• Washoe County Property Information FAQ

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.