What You Need
Washoe County administers 6 permit and license types. Below is everything you need to know about each one — requirements, fees, timelines, and where to apply.
Business License
Medium~14 days$50–$300
Required for businesses in unincorporated Washoe County.
Required Information
- •Business Name
- •Business Type
- •Owner Name
- •Business Address
- •Federal Ein
Required Documents
- 📎State Business License
- 📎Articles Of Organization
Building Permit
High~30 daysBased on valuation
Required for construction in unincorporated Washoe County.
Required Information
- •Property Address
- •Apn
- •Project Description
- •Contractor Name
- •Estimated Value
Required Documents
- 📎Construction Plans
- 📎Structural Calculations
Special Use Permit
High~90 days$1,200+
For uses requiring County Commission or Board of Adjustment approval.
Required Information
- •Property Address
- •Apn
- •Current Zoning
- •Proposed Use
Required Documents
- 📎Site Plan
- 📎Justification Letter
Grading Permit
Medium~21 daysBased on area
Required for grading and earth-moving in unincorporated areas.
Required Information
- •Property Address
- •Area Sqft
- •Volume
- •Contractor Name
Required Documents
- 📎Grading Plan
- 📎Erosion Control Plan
Well Permit (County Level)
Medium~30 days$200–$500
County-level well permit for domestic and irrigation wells. Coordinates with State Engineer (NDWR) requirements.
Required Information
- •Property Address
- •Apn
- •Well Type
- •Proposed Depth
- •Intended Use
- •Water Right Number
Required Documents
- 📎Well Location Map
- 📎Water Right Documentation
- 📎Driller License
Short-Term Rental
Medium~30 days$400/year
Required for vacation rentals in unincorporated Washoe County.
Required Information
- •Property Address
- •Owner Name
- •Local Contact
- •Max Occupancy
Required Documents
- 📎Floor Plan
- 📎Proof Of Ownership
- 📎Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Need help navigating Washoe County permits?
ClearedPath can build your complete permit roadmap — state, local, and federal requirements in one place.