Civic issues

Short-term rental regulation

The city started the process to define short-term rentals (like Airbnbs) and set use standards in the development code. It's just a first reading — no decision yet.

Minor Conditional Use Permit

A new, cheaper permit track could make it easier for small businesses to open in existing buildings downtown without paying for engineering review.

Water rights non-negotiation policy

Developers keep trying to talk their way into dedicating less water than code requires. The council put its refusal in writing so staff has backup.

Victory Logistics area industrial rezone

About 108 acres next to the Victory Logistics District would shift from 20-acre ranchette zoning to Industrial, matching the master plan. It cleared the Planning Commission 7-0 and got its first council reading.

Multifamily housing by right in commercial zones

State law (AB 241) now forces cities to allow apartments and mixed-use projects by right in commercial zones. Fernley updated its code to comply — projects still go through administrative review.

Multifamily housing allowed in commercial zones (AB 241)

Stand-Alone Gaming Establishments (Bill 376)

Fernley's development code now allows stand-alone gaming businesses of any size without requiring the resort hotel component. This could bring new gaming businesses to town without the big-hotel strings attached.

Stand-alone gaming establishments proposal

A first-reading bill would allow stand-alone gaming establishments of any size without a resort hotel — a notable shift for the city, with a decision still ahead.

Day care code modernization

Updated definitions and standards should open up more childcare options in Fernley, including adult day care.

Grading ordinance and rural/agricultural concerns

New definitions and clearer rules for grading permits, slopes, dust control, and enforcement — with a resident-level question about whether farmers clearing fields would now need permits.