Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 278 - Planning and Zoning
Here’s a detailed overview of Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) Chapter 278 – Planning and Zoning, with a closer look at key provisions and recent updates:
🧭 What is NAC Chapter 278?
NAC 278 sets administrative rules to support NRS Chapter 278, covering:
Definitions (e.g., “subdivision,” “tentative map”)
Subdivision procedure rules (tentative/final maps, parcel/large-parcel divisions, amendments)
Planning commissions and zoning boards of adjustment
Zoning regulations, master plans, special exceptions, and appeals
Inspection, utility-permit reviews, enforcement, and penalties (leg.state.nv.us, ndow.org, nevada.public.law, law.justia.com)
📑 Sample: NAC 278.260 – Subdivisions & Tentative Map Requirements
Section NAC 278.260 outlines the items developers must submit with a tentative subdivision map, including:
Topographic map (2‑ft contours for gentle slopes; 5‑ft for steeper)
Two layout copies showing lots, roads, easements
Soil report for any subsurface sewage system (soil type, water table, percolation)
Water system description and sourcing (private wells or public)
Unless using a public water system, results from 4 well samples meeting state standards (NAC 445A.450–.492)
A 100‑year floodplain map
Legal description (40‑acre section/township/range or similar)
Vicinity map relative to nearest city or highway
List of owners and developers
Master plan of nearby land under developer control (law.cornell.edu, ndow.org)
These align closely with NRS requirements (e.g. NRS 278.330–.335) for subdivision application completeness.
🔄 Recent Additions: Sections 2 – 8 (Effective 6/4/2024)
In June 2024, new rules (NAC 278 Sec. 2–8) were added—primarily to guide the Nevada Department of Wildlife review process under NRS 278.335:
Sec. 2–4: Definitions (e.g., “subdivision,” “tentative map”) mirror NRS meanings (ndow.org, regulations.justia.com)
Sec. 5: Clarified “infill development,” “vacant,” and “substantially vacant” (75% or more undeveloped land) (ndow.org)
Sec. 6: Wildlife review packet must include tentative map, review form, fee, plus:
Map of site topography, floodplain, proximity to roads, timelines, acreage, water system, legal description, developer contact info, master plan (ndow.org)
Sec. 7: Wildlife department to provide written comments (e.g. mitigation, best practices) (ndow.org)
Sec. 8: Fees: $250 + $5/acre for initial review, $5/acre for modifications (ndow.org)
✅ Summary Table
| Topic | NAC Section(s) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Definitions | Sec. 2–4 | Consistent with NRS |
| Tentative map submission | NAC 278.260 | Topography, layout, water/soil/flood info, legal & vicinity maps, contacts, master plan |
| Wildlife review requirement | Sec. 5–8 (new June 2024) | Infill exception, submission requirements, feedback & fees |
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