Guide to the LLR-2.5 Large-Lot Residential District in Reno
The LLR-2.5 Large-Lot Residential district in Reno is designed for rural single-family living and agricultural activities, requiring a minimum lot size of 2.5 acres and a maximum density of one dwelling unit per 2.5 acres. This zoning category emphasizes large setbacks and a 45-foot maximum building height to preserve the natural landscape and prevent premature urban sprawl on the fringes of Reno.
Purpose and General Character of the LLR-2.5 District
The City of Reno established the LLR-2.5 district to accommodate rural single-family residential and agricultural uses [Section 18.02.201(a)]. The district represents the largest-lot residential zoning in Reno and is characterized by its expansive setbacks and low density. Beyond simple housing, the general character of the LLR-2.5 district is defined by its role in protecting environmental resources and precluding premature development of rural land on the edges of the Reno urban area [Section 18.02.201(a)]. Secondary uses commonly found in this Reno district include schools, community gardens, home occupations, and parks [Section 18.02.201(a)].
Lot and Building Standards
Development in the Reno LLR-2.5 district must adhere to strict dimensional requirements to maintain its rural character. The following table outlines the principal and accessory structure standards for the district.
Technical Standards for LLR-2.5
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Base Density (Maximum) | 1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres |
| Minimum Lot Size | 2.5 acres |
| Minimum Lot Width | 150 feet |
| Front Setback (Minimum) | 30 feet |
| Side Setback (Minimum) | 15 feet |
| Rear Setback (Principal Building) | 30 feet |
| Rear Setback (Accessory Structure) | 30 feet (or 15 feet for single-story structures up to 16 feet high) |
| Street-Facing Garage Setback | 30 feet from sidewalk or planned sidewalk |
| Maximum Height (Principal Building) | 45 feet |
| Maximum Height (Accessory Structure) | 29 feet |
| Maximum Building Coverage | 35% |
[Table 2-4]
Permitted Land Uses in LLR-2.5
The City of Reno allows a specific range of residential, civic, and agricultural uses in the LLR-2.5 district. Use permissions are categorized as Permitted (P), requiring a Minor Conditional Use Permit (M), or requiring a full Conditional Use Permit (C).
Residential and Agricultural Uses
- Single-Family Detached Dwelling: Permitted by-right.
- Group Home: Permitted by-right.
- Urban Farm: Allowed with a Minor Conditional Use Permit for permanent operations, or permitted by-right as a temporary use.
- Agricultural operations: Secondary agricultural uses are intended for the district [Section 18.02.201(a)].
Public, Institutional, and Civic Uses
- Public Park or Recreation Area: Permitted by-right.
- Minor Utilities: Permitted by-right.
- Major Utilities: Requires a Conditional Use Permit.
- Educational Facilities: Adult Education, Childcare Centers, and both Public and Private Schools require a Minor Conditional Use Permit.
Accessory and Temporary Uses
The LLR-2.5 district in Reno permits several accessory uses typically incidental to rural residential life. These include Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), guest quarters, private stables, and home occupations [Table 3-1]. Temporary uses such as construction field offices, garage sales, and stockpiling are also permitted by-right, while temporary asphalt or concrete batch plants require a full Conditional Use Permit [Table 3-1].
Parking Requirements
Reno classifies the LLR-2.5 district within the "Level 2 Parking District" for the purposes of determining off-street parking and bicycle parking requirements [Section 18.04.705(a)(1)c].
LLR-2.5 Parking Ratios
| Type of Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Minimum Off-Street Parking | 1 space per 1,250 sq. ft. per unit (not to exceed 3 per unit) |
| Minimum Bicycle Parking | 1 space per residential unit |
[Table 4-6, Table 4-8]
Sections Cited
- Section 18.02.201: LLR-2.5: Large-Lot Residential (2.5 Acres)
- Table 2-4: LLR-2.5: Lot and Building Standards
- Table 3-1: Table of Allowed Uses
- Section 18.04.705: Off-Street Parking Requirements
- Table 4-6: Off-Street Parking Requirements
- Table 4-8: Bicycle Parking Requirements