Board hears introduction of Bill 1946 to allow multifamily in commercial zones after AB 241 mandate

The Planning Department introduced Bill 1946 (Development Code Amendment 25005) during the April 14 meeting to implement state requirements and local standards allowing multi-family residential and mixed uses in commercial zoning districts.

Dr. Young, presenting the amendment, said the change implements Assembly Bill 241's statewide requirement that jurisdictions permit by-right multi-family development in commercial zones. The proposal establishes residential densities to reflect nearby residential intensities (proposed examples: 9 dwelling units per acre for neighborhood commercial; 14 du/acre for general and tourist commercial), sets parking and landscaping standards, requires municipal water and wastewater service for residential projects, and places a 35-foot maximum height limit for residential or mixed-use projects unless a special-use permit justifies greater height consistent with the zoning district.

Dr. Young said the Planning Commission asked staff to keep the finished product compatible with residential design and function even within commercial areas; the ordinance before the board reflects that direction. Commissioners asked whether the Tahoe Basin is part of the change; Dr. Young said the Tahoe Basin is excluded from AB 241 and generally already allows mixed uses under its area plan. Commissioners also asked about civic uses and whether the code should allow certain civic or institutional uses in the mixed-use category; staff said they added some civic uses with limitations to provide flexibility and to avoid multiple future code amendments.

Public comments earlier in the meeting voiced concern about potential loopholes in how grant-funded affordable housing and zone changes are reviewed and urged clear code language and hearing opportunities; several public commenters supported expedited, attainable-housing measures elsewhere on the agenda.

Board action and next steps: The board introduced Bill 1946 for first reading and will hold additional hearings as required by the ordinance adoption process. The transcript records the introduction motion and first reading; no vote to adopt was taken at this meeting.

Why it matters: The change modifies where and how multifamily housing can be built in commercial areas and is a direct local implementation of recent Nevada legislative direction (AB 241). It affects development potential, neighborhood compatibility standards, and the county's ability to accommodate housing goals.

Provenance: Topicintro SEG 3828; Topfinish SEG 4107.