Storey County offers building opportunities in Reno-Tahoe, though land prices are above average.
📊55/100AcreScore
💰$85KLand $/acre
🏠$390KHome Value
👥4,123Population
📈+5.5%Growth (10yr)
🌊10%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Cold semi-arid, near Reno metroClimateZone 6b
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Storey County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Storey County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Nevada requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Storey County Building Department
Virginia City, NV
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Moderate flood risk. 10% of county land is in FEMA flood zones. Most buildable parcels are outside hazard areas, but always verify your specific site.
10%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Varies
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Higher land costs at roughly $85,000 per acre reflect Storey County's demand — proximity to Reno and growth pressure drive prices.
$85K
Median $/acre
$390K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.0248%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Storey County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Storey County sits in the heart of Reno-Tahoe. Reno is 25 min away. No state income tax means your dollar stretches further here than in most states.
📈
Steady Community
A stable community with steady growth — less speculation, more authentic rural living.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population4,123
10-Year Growth+5.5%
County SeatVirginia City
State Income TaxNone
ClimateCold semi-arid, near Reno metro (Zone 6b)
How Close Is Everything?
Reno25 min
Reno-Tahoe International30 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Storey County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Virginia City. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
USDA Rural Development loans are generally not available in Storey County due to urban classification. FHA, VA, and conventional financing options are available.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Storey County?
Check with the Storey County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Storey County?
Median price is approximately $85,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements.
Is Storey County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Most of Storey County is not eligible for USDA Rural Development due to its urban/suburban classification. Check the USDA eligibility map for specific addresses.
What is the property tax rate in Storey County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.0248%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Storey County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Nevada, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.