Douglas County Seeks Public Input on Title 20 Consolidated Development Code Update
Douglas County, NV – Douglas County is embarking on an update of the Title 20 Consolidated Development Code (Title 20 Code of Ordinances) for Douglas County, which governs land use, zoning, and development. The County is inviting the public to participate in the first public workshop and presentation for the Title 20 Code Update.
The first public workshop and presentation for the Title 20 Consolidated Development Code Update takes place Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Douglas County CVIC Hall, located at 1604 Esmeralda Avenue, Minden, Nevada 89423.
A Better Consolidated Development Code for a Better Douglas County
The goal is to modernize and reorganize the code, so it is easier to navigate, consistent with current policy, and more user-friendly for both residents and developers. This comprehensive update will include goals and policies that:
- Make the development process clearer and more predictable for homeowners, builders, and business owners
- Consolidate and reorganize the rules into one streamlined framework
- Eliminate contradictions, simplify procedures, and ensure the code aligns with our community's vision as outlined in the Master Plan
- Integrate Part I of the Douglas County Design Criteria & Improvement Standards into the appropriate chapters in Title 20, updating graphics and removing criteria that are no longer relevant to current building practices
- Create new tables, graphics, and illustrations that support easy navigation and clearer comprehension of code requirements
A key objective of this effort is to improve Title 20 the Consolidated Development Code that incorporates current development standards. The update will promote economic vitality with updated standards that meet the adopted Wildland Urban Interface building finishes and regulations that will encourage desired investment and quality projects that strengthen our local economy while respecting our community's character. The updated code will be a single, comprehensive framework.
What is the Title 20 Consolidated Development Code?
The Douglas County Title 20 Consolidated Development Code is essentially the rulebook for all building, land use, and development within the county, combining all regulations regarding zoning, subdivisions, and construction into a single legal title.
Its primary purpose is to ensure that development in the county is safe, orderly, and consistent with the community's long-term goals as outlined in the Master Plan.
Title 20 Consolidated Development Code is a comprehensive set of local requirements guided by the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) that establish how residents can use land and what they can build on it. It consolidates various distinct types of regulations that might be separated in other jurisdictions, including:
- Zoning Districts & Uses: Defines what activities are allowed in specific areas (e.g., residential, commercial, agricultural)
- Building Codes: Adopts safety standards (like the International Building Code) for construction, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety
- Land Use Specific Developments: Detailed rules that apply to a particular type of activity or structure, regardless of which underlying zoning district it's in
- Tahoe Basin Regulations: Specific requirements that apply only to the portion of the county within the Lake Tahoe Basin (often coordinating with the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency)
Adoption of the revised Title 20 will repeal, replace, or revise the existing Douglas County Consolidated Development Code and Design Standards (Part 1).
Learn More
The Title 20 Consolidated Development Code update process will include multiple phases of public participation. To stay informed, provide input, and receive updates on future events and milestones, visit bit.ly/dctitle20
Douglas County encourages all community members, property owners, and development professionals to take part in updating the Title 20 Consolidated Development Code. We are committed to making this a transparent process and look forward to hearing feedback on the proposed changes. Community input is essential to help us build a better code for everyone.