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1. What is the responsibility of the Assessor´s Office?

Our responsibility is to estimate property values. We do not set the tax rate nor do we collect taxes. It is our duty, by law, to discover all taxable property in Lyon County, appraise its value, then calculate 35% of that appraised value to arrive at the assessed value.

2. Who determines the tax rate?

The tax rate for the individual tax districts is established each spring by the Nevada Tax Commission from budgets submitted by local government entities such as the Fire Protection Districts, School District and others. Services provided by these governmental bodies are a result of those budgets and any questions about government services should be directed to those agencies and not to the Assessor, Treasurer or Board of Equalization.

3. Who collects taxes?

The Lyon County Treasurer collects taxes based on the tax bills sent out each July. Questions regarding taxes paid or amounts due should be directed to that office at (775) 463-6504.

4. What is the difference between the “appraised” value of your property and the “assessed” value of your property?

The appraised value of your land is the Assessor’s estimate of its market value, taking into account its location, zoning, actual use, etc. The appraised value of your buildings is their estimated replacement cost new less depreciation. Your taxes will be based on your total assessed value, which is 35% of your total appraised value.

5. Why would my taxes change?

They change when either your tax rate changes or your assessed value changes. Your assessed value can change because of a boundary change, new construction, change in use, or reappraisal.

6. What is factoring?

There are two types of land factors and improvement factors. Both are used to keep values current. Land factors are determined by sale prices of land in areas and neighborhoods and are applicable to land not currently in the reappraisal cycle. Statistical analysis of sales in an area or neighborhood is used to arrive at a factor for that particular area. Factors can be negative, positive or neutral thereby increasing values, decreasing values or leaving them alone. The Assessor´s Office and the Department of Taxation, Division of Assessment Standards, determine the factors for land and they are taken to the Nevada Tax Commission for approval. The Nevada Tax Commission is responsible for determining improvement factors for given areas around the state and those factors are based on changes in building costs from year to year.

7. How often would my value change?

It could change annually. Each year, all properties will either be reappraised or their previous assessed value could be factored using factors established or approved by the Nevada Tax Commission.

8. How does my assessed value relate to market value?

In Nevada, we appraise land according to its market value, then calculate 35% of that value to arrive at the assessed value. Improvements are based on a replacement cost new less depreciation. In other words, we determine how much it would cost to replace the improvement(s), depreciate it at 1.5% per year to arrive at the taxable value. Then we calculate 35% of that value to arrive at the assessed value. Market value has very little bearing on the taxable value of a property, especially as the age of the improvements increase. The 1.5% depreciation is according to Nevada Revised Statutes and the maximum depreciation allowed on real property is 75%.

9. What if I don't agree with my assessed value?

Assessment notices are mailed in December and June to taxpayers whose value has changed. If you have a question, you may call the Assessor´s Office or come in and talk to an If we are unable to resolve your problem you may appeal to the County Board of Equalization. If you are still not satisfied, you may appeal to the State Board of Equalization, and thereafter, through the court system. Any of these bodies may adjust your assessed value. Appeals to the County Board of Equalization must be filed at the Assessor's Office no later than January 15th or the first business day following January 15th should it fall on a weekend or holiday.

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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 and smoke alarms) in all rooms for new residential construction except where GFCI protection is required in kitchen, bathroom, garages and outdoors. ARC fault circuit breakers must be the "combination" type.

5. When do I need “energy calculations”?

New residential construction including habitable additions must comply with the prescriptive energy requirements of the 2009 IECC as amended for climate zone 5. An acceptable option is to provide calculations using the REScheck software available at www.energycodes.gov. (Commercial projects must also comply with the requirements of the 2009 International Energy Code.) Link to REScheck

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1. What is required for a final inspection? Can I move in before a final inspection?

The building codes adopted by Lyon County state that no building or structure shall be used or occupied until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy. For residential permits the inspector’s report and signed inspection record card indicating final approval serve as the certificate of occupancy. Commercial projects require a signed Certificate signed by the building official that indicates the permitted occupancy classification of the facility. The building inspector has some discretion, but generally all work covered under the permit must be completed in order to receive approval to occupy. A "Temporary C of O" may be issued under certain circumstances. A written request providing the length of time and explaining the reason behind the need for a Temporary C of O along with the $100 application fee must be submitted to the Building Official for consideration. Once a permit is “signed off” it is closed and no further inspections are authorized. Any change in occupancy classification requires an additional permit and subsequent C of O.

2. Why can’t I get electric power approved to set up my MH?

NRS 489.251 prohibits connecting or activating utility systems to a MH prior to receiving an inspection and either a Certificate of Installation or equivalent authorization from NV Divsn. of MH. Link to NRS 489.251

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1. Are there age restrictions on Mobile Homes in Lyon County?

A MH manufactured more than 15 years prior cannot be brought into Lyon County for installation. A MH currently installed and occupied as a residence may be relocated with a permit w/o age restriction. A MH less than 15 years old may be installed under permit on a property that has zoning with a “T” overlay. A “double-wide” MH less than 5 years old may be installed on any build-able residential parcel that does not involve deed restrictions. See our information website and contact the Building Dept. for a complete review of requirements and regulations. Link to Information and Applications

2. Can I build an addition to my manufactured home?

Additions may be permitted by Lyon County as long as they do not use the MH for any structural support, interfere with required egress including bedroom windows or in any way alter the structure of the MH. Otherwise the plans must first be approved by the NV Divsn. of Manufactured Housing (see www.mhd.state.nv.us) prior to applying for a county building permit. Non-permitted additions or modifications to a MH can impair future financing and sales of the residence. Link to NV MH Website

3. What are the requirements to convert my MH from personal property to real property?

With some exceptions all MH installed in Lyon County following July 1, 1998, must be converted to real property. A permit from the Building Dept. must be obtained to convert a MH to real property. Basically the MH must be lawfully installed on and affixed (tied down to footings, etc) to the property with tongues and axles removed as verified by an inspector. The permit application and County staff will provide a complete explanation of the process (as well as the exceptions).

4. Why can’t I get electric power approved to set up my MH?

NRS 489.251 prohibits connecting or activating utility systems to a MH prior to receiving an inspection and either a Certificate of Installation or equivalent authorization from NV Divsn. of MH. Link to NRS 489.251

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1. What do I do when my septic system fails?

Attempt to identify the cause of the problem with the aid of a licensed contractor as necessary. Clearing a clogged fixture or pipe or pumping the septic tank may resolve the problem. If the leach field has become saturated and is no longer working evidenced by “gray water” on the ground, immediate action is necessary for health reasons. Septic systems are regulated by state agencies, NV Health for residential and NDEP for commercial. When a residential leach field fails a replacement field must be constructed, inspected and approved under a county permit. See our information web pages and contact the Building Dept. for assistance. Link to Information and Applications

2. 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 and smoke alarms) in all sleeping rooms for new residential construction. ARC fault circuit breakers must be of the "combination" type.

3. Where can I get information regarding electric service to my lot?

See www.nvenergy.com/services/business/new_construction which is a web page providing a wealth of information including answers to numerous frequently asked questions regarding this subject. (For information regarding natural gas service in Lyon County visit www.southwestgas.com.) Link to SPPCo. webpage

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1. Can a contractor apply for and obtain a permit on my behalf?

Yes. However written authorization must accompany the permit application per NRS 278.610(AGO). This may be a signature of the current property owner on the application or a separate written authorization.

2. Do I have to come to Yerington to apply for a building permit?

Complete applications may be submitted by mail or in person at the Yerington office or in some cases the Dayton office in the Dayton Utilities Building (call 246-6135 for appointment). In either case a plan review deposit is required with the application so It is suggested you call first.

3. Do I need a permit for my storage shed?

Single-Family Residential or Buildings Constructed Under the International Residential Code (IRC) - One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouse, or similar uses that do not include electrical, mechanical or plumbing and do not exceed 200 square feet of floor area do not require a building permit. If any electrical, mechanical or plumbing work is included within the detached accessory structure or if the floor area exceeds 200 square feet, an appropriate permit is required.

Other Buildings or Buildings Constructed Under the International Building Code (IBC) -
One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouse, or similar uses that do not include electrical, mechanical or plumbing and do not exceed 120 square feet of floor area do not require a building permit. If any electrical, mechanical or plumbing work is included within the detached accessory structure or if the floor area exceeds 120 square feet, an appropriate permit is required.

4. Do I need a permit to build a deck?

Decks (excluding flat concrete walking surfaces) attached to a building require a building permit. Detached decks which do not exceed 200 square feet of floor area and are less than 30 inches above grade are exempt from a building permit but still must comply with code requirements.

5. Do I need a permit to build or replace my fence?

Fences six feet or less in height do not require a building permit. In Lyon County residential fences are limited to a maximum six feet in height in side and rear yards. Fences in front yard areas may not exceed 4 feet in height. Fences within 25 feet of an intersection are limited to 2 feet in height.

6. 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.

7. How long is a permit good for?

In general for a permit to remain valid, work must be started within six months and must not be abandoned for a period of six months. Evidence that a project has not been abandoned is usually on-going inspections. Time extensions of up to 180 days may be granted but must be requested in writing with justification before the permit expires.

8. What do I need to apply for a building permit?

It is suggested you visit our Information and Applications pages as a first step. Applications can be printed, filled-out and submitted with appropriate documents by mail or in person at the Building Dept. Since plan review deposits are now required with most applications,you are encouraged to phone or email to determine the amount of deposit and to discuss any remaining questions. Generally, non-residential permits in Lyon County require review and approval by the appropriate Fire District prior to being submitted to the Building Dept. Link to Information and Applications

9. Where can I get information regarding electric service to my lot?

See www.nvenergy.com/services/business/new_construction which is a web page providing a wealth of information including answers to numerous frequently asked questions regarding this subject. (For information regarding natural gas service in Lyon County visit www.southwestgas.com.) Link to SPPCo. webpage

10. Why do I need to get a building permit?

The elected governing body of Lyon County, the Board of Commissioners, has enacted regulations and established responsible departments to promote the public health and safety. To that end the Building Department was established, as provided by state statute, to provide plan review, permitting and inspection services under the adopted building codes.

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1. When do I need a business license?

Lyon County Code states it is unlawful for any person, partnership, association, firm or corporation engaging in any trade, calling, service, profession, or business venture in Lyon County must first apply for and obtain a license or permit from the Lyon County Clerk/Treasurer's office.
This would exclude 1) all multi-level marketing businesses such as Avon, Amway, Shaklee, Candlelight, Pampered Chef, Home Interiors, etc., 2) those persons setting up for special events sponsored by the city or county, 3) those persons selling under the umbrella of a flea or farmer’s market or 4) any private individual who has no more than five (5) garage sales a year.

2. Do I need to go the Department of Taxation first?

Yes, you will need to take a copy of the ‘Nevada Business Registration’ form to their office and send or bring in the compliance letter they give you with your application.

3. How much will a business license cost me?

Your Lyon County Business License will be determined according to the number of owners and employees you have. There is a fee schedule printed on the Lyon County Business License form.

4. When do I need to file a Fictitious Firm Name?

The only time you do not have to file a fictitious firm name is if you are a sole proprietor operating under just your given name or you are a Nevada State registered corporation, limited liability or trade name.

5. Which inspections do I need and do I need them if I am running a business from my home?

If your business is in a commercial location, the first thing you will do is check with the planning department to see if the zoning is correct for the type of business you are conducting. If the zoning is okay, then you will need to call the health inspector only if your business is food related, otherwise, you will need to only call the building and fire inspectors. In some cases you may need to check with Lyon County Utilities. Have the Lyon County form on site when the inspectors come so they can sign it off.

6. How do I calculate number of employees, does this include leased or part-time employees?

Your employees are the number of workers, including owners, that it takes to operate your business. For the purposes of calculating your fee, you will count any full or part-time employees and leased employees from an employment agency.

7. Is a husband and wife considered a sole proprietorship?

Yes.

8. Do I need to notify you if I close my business?

Yes, if you close your business or you are a contractor no longer working in our county, please notify our office by mail, phone or email.

9. I don’t have any children, do I still need to complete the “CHILD SUPPORT” form?

Yes, law requires all applicants to complete this form.

10. What other requirements do I need?

Different businesses have different requirements, please contact our office to discuss the nature of your business and if there are any state requirements needed before you can obtain your county license.

11. Where do I get a federal identification number?

You can obtain your federal identification or EIN number from the IRS. Their website is www.irs.gov or you can call them at 1-800-829-1040.

12. When do I need to fill out a renewal form to update my license?

Whenever there is a change in your business, moving to another location (even if it is next door), change in ownership or corporate officers, changing the nature of your business or adding to it, etc.

13. Are the business license fees pro-rated?

Yes, the fees can be prorated on a quarterly basis, but not a monthly basis. We are on a fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30 of the following year. If you were to start your business in August, you would still pay the full annual fee, whereas, if you started in October, you would only pay three quarters for the first year. This applies to all fees except gaming; these fees can be prorated monthly.

14. When are fees due?

Fees are billed annually in June of each year and are due on July 1. Fees of $100.00 or less will be paid in full July 1. Lyon County does offer you the option of paying quarterly if the fees are more than $100.00, however, you will not be billed quarterly. If you choose to pay quarterly, the due dates are: July 1, October 1, January 1 and April 1.

15. What if I have no employees, do I still need to complete the ‘Affirmation of Compliance?

Yes, this compliance form is required by State Industrial Relations and if you have no employees, you must still complete the form, checking the second option, and either sign the form in front of us or a notary. If you have employees and have worker’s compensation, you can submit a copy of your certificate of insurance instead of filling out this form.

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1. Can I receive information and/or a copy of the police reports in a particular case?

State statutes prohibit the District Attorney’s Office from giving legal advice to private individuals. The office staff can provide very general information about the status of a case, but staff cannot provide details relating to a case.
Generally, police reports are not released to anyone other than the defendant or attorney for the defendant. In situations where State law authorizes reports to be released to other parties, a written request must be submitted to this office. The office will not release a copy of the report to victims, third parties, or others without a specific written request and approval from the attorney assigned to the case. There is a charge of $0.25/page for copies of police reports.

2. If I report a crime, do I have to be involved?

This question depends on the circumstances. Our office and law enforcement will make every effort to keep the person anonymous if they request. However, in some instances the law requires the office to disclose that information and you may become involved in the case as a witness.

3. Can I receive information about juvenile or child protection cases?

This office is prohibited under State law from disclosing information about these cases, except to certain persons in limited situations.

4. How and where do you file a police report?

The Lyon County District Attorney cannot file police reports. You need to file a report with the law enforcement agency. The Lyon County Sheriff's Office is the primary agency for Lyon County with offices in Yerington, Silver Springs, Fernley and Dayton. The Yerington Police Department handles police reports for the City of Yerington. Contact the Yerington Tribal Police Department to file a police report on the Yerington Paiute Tribe Colony or Campbell Ranch. Once the agency receives the report and completes the investigation, the agency decides whether to submit the case to our office for review. In some cases, the matter will not be referred to our office. Misdemeanor cases for the City of Yerington and City of Fernley are usually handled by the Yerington and Fernley City Attorneys.

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1. Where can I register to vote?

You can call the Clerk-Treasurer's Office at (775) 463-6501 to request an application or you may go to any Justice Court within the County to register to vote Voter Registration Information

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1. What positions are currently available?

We have our available jobs posted on this site. Access them by clicking on the following link.

Current Job Listings

2. Can I apply online?

Yes you may apply online by visiting the following link

Apply online for a job

3. What type of benefits does the County offer?

The County offers a full employee benefit package including retirement, health, dental, vision and life insurance coverage. Go to the following link to get full details on benefits and waiting periods. Employee Benefits

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1. How do I obtain a work permit?

Please complete the work permit form and bring it, with identification, to the Juvenile Probation Office nearest you. Please note that work permits are only for Nevada employment, and are not valid until signed by an Officer of the Lyon County Juvenile Probation Department. Work Permit Form

2. How do I obtain a Fresh Air Trip Permission Form?

Please click on the permission form link. Complete and return the form to the Juvenile Probation Officer that invited your child. Permission Form

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1. How do I get a library card?

Any person with proper identification and verification of their address may fill out an application for a library card. A valid card is necessary to borrow library materials.

2. What are your hours?

Refer to our quick links with local library branch information.

See hours for a branch in your area.

3. Do you have public Internet access?

Yes. We have computers for patron use and wi-fi available at all branches.

4. How can I write a resume?

Templates are available online and through Microsoft Word. Library staff will be glad to help you choose one.

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1. Where can I buy a Marriage License?

You may buy a marriage license at the main office at 27 S. Main Street, Yerington, NV. View more Marriage License Information

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1. What is a Declaration of Homestead, how do I record it and what does it protect me from?

Declaration of Homestead is a document that when recorded, offers certain protections from involuntary liens.  Additional information

2. How can I get a copy of my deed?

Once the document number is found (see Browse Records for instructions), you can either request a copy on-line, call us at 775-463-6581, or come to our office. Advance payment is required. We accept VISA and MasterCard.

3. What is a Declaration of Value form and when is this form used?

A Declaration of Value form is used with any document that transfers interest in real property whether transfer tax is due or an exemption is claimed. This form usually accompanies certain documents; for example, any type of Deed, Contracts of Sale and some Court Orders. The Declaration of Value form enables the Recorder’s Office to effectively collect transfer tax.

4. What is transfer tax?

Whenever title is conveyed on Real property a Declaration of Value form must be completed in order to determine whether or not transfer tax is due.  Additional information

5. What is an Assessor's Parcel Number (APN)?

The Assessor's identification number for a specific property.  Additional information

6. How can I find the owner of a property?

This information can be found on the Assessor's webpage. You can contact them at 775-463-6520.

7. How do I obtain a Certified Copy of a Death Certificate?

Certified copies of Death Certificates are obtained through the Department of Vital Statistics in the state where the death occured.

8. Are there any liens against my property?

In order to see if there are any liens against your property, you will need to do a document search.

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1. How do I get my road added for maintenance?

Please contact the Road Division at (775) 577-5011 for a Road Acceptance Form.

2. How often are maintained dirt roads graded in Lyon County?

On average, dirt roads are graded every three months.

3. Who needs an Encroachment Permit?

Any person, contractor, or public utility performing work in County Right-of-Ways, utilities, or any type of work in the Right-of-Way. Please complete a Right-of-Way Use Permit

4. How do I get a sign installed, repaired, or replaced?

Please complete a Sign Request Form

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1. When are my taxes due?

The fiscal year starts July 1 and tax bills are sent out the 3rd week in July. View Property Tax Information