Reno · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Reno public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Corner Lot Fence Height Deviations and Neighborhood Visibility
A homeowner at 931 Gordon Avenue wants a six-foot fence in a front yard where only four feet is allowed. Small on its face, but major deviations like this set the tone for neighborhood character.
Sutro Street rezone for Hillside Foursquare Church site
About 6.8 acres off Sutro Street currently zoned for single-family homes could be rezoned to mixed-use suburban, opening the door to denser development near US 395.
Development Review Training and Public Engagement
The city reviewed how it engages residents — 700+ touchpoints last summer — and is rolling out a new engagement framework. The board was asked for input before the plan is finalized.
Reestablishment of Nonconforming Auto Repair Use at 55 S. Wells Avenue
The owner of a long-standing auto repair building on South Wells Avenue is seeking a conditional use permit to allow auto repair again after recent zoning overlay changes prohibited it. Neighbors and board members expressed support for grandfathering the established business use.
Ralston Street Major Deviation and Parcel Split
A property owner is asking to adjust rear setback rules so a lot with two houses can be split into separate parcels. Board members discussed whether this sets a good precedent for more granular neighborhood housing options.
Kengott Residence and Detached Garage/ADU Project
A residential project involving a front yard setback variance near an access easement and a major deviation to expand an accessory building footprint up to 1,800 square feet.
River Inn outdoor vehicle storage
A conditional use permit for a walled outdoor vehicle storage lot near the Truckee River raised questions about hazardous waste from stored vehicles and consistency with how similar properties were treated. Board members told the applicants to come back when ready.
Whispering Road Zoning Map Amendment
A small property in Verdi was rezoned from public facility to general commercial to align with surrounding commercial properties and the master plan.
Roberts Front Setback Deviation (LDC26-00035)
An architect presented plans for a 15-foot front setback instead of the required 30 feet for a new home at 3189 Heatheridge Lane. Neighbors raised questions about drainage, slope stability, and construction access.
East 4th Street District National Register nomination
The commission endorsed the East 4th Street District's nomination to the National Register of Historic Places, forwarding its support to City Council. The nomination goes before the Board of Museums and History on March 5.
Zoning Map Amendment for 386 Holcomb Avenue
A developer wants to rezone a vacant former credit union building at 386 Holcomb Avenue to allow its conversion into eight modern apartments. The Planning Commission recommended approval after finding it fits well with surrounding downtown mixed-use properties.