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Building - Codes and Design

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1. Can I design my own project?

Residential projects under the “owner-builder exemption” (see NRS 624.031) may be designed by the owner when of conventional wood-frame construction covered by the International Residential Code. Commercial projects require professional design. Link to Owner/Builder Exemption

2. How close can I build to my property line?

Minimum setback requirements are established by County zoning codes. You are encouraged to phone or email the building department for this information. There may also be restrictions due to easements established on the property or other deed restrictions. In Mason and Smith Valleys the Walker River Irrigation District must approve the site plan for a project as part of the application process.

3. What codes has Lyon County adopted?

A listing of the adopted codes is available at Codes and Design Criteria webpage and the amendments to the published codes can be found at Building Codes as Amended. The published codes cannot be made available on the web due to copyright protections, but may be viewed at the public library or the Building Department in Yerington or Dayton. Adopted Building Codes

4. When and where do I need to install an ARC Fault Circuit Breaker?

ARC fault protection is required for all 15 and 20 amp electrical circuits supplying outlets (includes lighting outlets) in all sleeping rooms for new residential construction.

5. When do I need “energy calculations”?

New residential construction including habitable additions must comply with the prescriptive energy requirements of Chapter 11, 2003 IRC for climate zone 13. An acceptable option is to provide calculations using the REScheck software available at www.energycodes.gov. (Commercial projects must comply with the requirements of the 2003 International Energy Code.) Link to REScheck