The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) is accepting applications for a new scholarship program that empowers Lake Tahoe community members to engage in the planning process as part of the Tahoe Living initiative to update affordable and workforce housing policies, the agency announced today.

Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin is a multi-year project to modernize land use policies and the regional growth management system to make housing more accessible while maintaining and improving environmental protections. A core focus of the program is to establish long-term, two-way engagement between communities and agencies, with a particular focus on underrepresented groups, according to TRPA.

“We want to ensure that many voices help shape solutions to affordable housing that improve safety and continue to protect Lake Tahoe,” TRPA Executive Director Julie Regan said. “These scholarships and new training opportunities can help community members most affected by housing challenges gain the knowledge and skills needed to engage in decision-making.”

Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin scholarships will award up to $25,000 to help individual community members participate in training courses that provide background knowledge on subjects like planning, environmental regulations, growth management, public safety, and zoning. Most awards will be up to up to $1,600, with one $3,000 scholarship to assist an individual in attending a conference. The scholarships are a companion to TRPA’s Community Academy webinar series and allow for education, discussion, and hands-on learning experiences, according to the agency.

Participants will also be asked to provide feedback on how the agency can improve the training program. The Community Academy webinar series is open to the public and recordings can be viewed at www.tahoeliving.org.

Anyone who is a full-time resident of the Tahoe Basin, a seasonal resident, or works in the Basin is welcome to apply. Scholarship recipients should represent a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences, interests, and communities. Applications and more information on eligibility are available at www.tahoeliving.org/engagement-approach.

Funding for the scholarships is provided through a grant from the State of California grant. TRPA has also provided mini-grant assistance to community-based organizations. 

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The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency leads the cooperative effort to preserve, restore, and enhance the unique natural and human environment of the Lake Tahoe Region, while improving local communities, and people’s interactions with our irreplaceable environment.

Jeff W. Cowen, APR (he/him)
Public Information Officer
Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
775-589-5278 | jcowen@trpa.gov

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Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 1/28/2025, Written by Eli Ramos

Last Thursday, the Incline Village and Crystal Bay Community and Business Association, also known as IVCBA, hosted an informational meeting on unlocking housing stock in the area. That meeting coincided with the soon-to-launch Placemate Lease to Locals program, which will open in February.

Linda Offerdahl, executive director of the IVCBA, started off the first presentation of the series by discussing the importance of workforce housing. “The IVCBA has been working to create positive interaction and common ground on issues that can be controversial… Workforce housing includes not just service work, but teachers, nurses, doctors, and firefighters in our community.”

In spring 2024, the IVCBA also conducted a workforce housing series survey, where nearly 70% of people expressed their interest in unlocking existing housing stock for workforce housing.

READ MORE >

Submitted by Placemate, Chase Janvrin, 01/22/2025

Thanks to funding provided by Washoe County, Placemate, Inc. is pleased to launch the Lease to Locals pilot program, an innovative initiative aimed at addressing the lack of long-term housing options in the Incline Village / Crystal Bay area for local workers. 

IVCBA is helping to spread the word of this new program in the area, and build on the efforts already implemented by Placemate in neighboring communities of East Placer County, The Town of Truckee, and South Lake Tahoe. IVCBA is hosting an event on Thursday, January 23rd to highlight the program. 

This new program will provide up to $18,000 in incentive payments to property owners who convert their housing units from short-term rentals or from sitting largely vacant, into year-round or seasonal rentals for the local workforce. 

“Our community has struggled with housing for our workforce. Unlocking housing stock through Lease to Locals offers some relief to landlords willing to provide new rentals and some relief to workers who struggle with the lack of available rentals.” commented Linda Offerdahl, IVCBA Community and Business Association Executive Director.

Placemate brings a proven track record and operational capacity to Incline Village / Crystal Bay. They have run similar Lease to Locals incentive programs not just in the Tahoe area, but across the country in resort communities in Ketchum, Idaho; Eagle and Summit Counties, Colorado; and Nantucket and Provincetown, Massachusetts. The programs incentivize long term rentals to full time workers, as an alternative to short term renting or sitting vacant. Across the various markets Placemate operates, they’ve unlocked 688 units and housed 1,561 locals, as of January, 2025.

Program Details: 

To qualify, properties must be located in Incline Village / Crystal Bay, and not have been rented full-time in the past 12 months, and are subject to a maximum rental rate of $4,500/mo. 

Property owners who rent their property to “qualified tenants” for a minimum five month period are eligible for a one-time financial incentive ranging from $2,000 to $18,000, based on the number of qualified tenants they rent to, and the length and type of lease. 

Local workers searching for a property can create a Renter Profile on the Placemate website. Creating a renter profile is fast, free, and easy, and allows Placemate to match renters to potential homes that fit their criteria.

Tenants and property owners can learn more about the program, and get started by creating their tenant or property owner profiles, by visiting https://placemate.com, calling Placemate at (775) 415-9172, or emailing lori@placemate.com. 

The Lease to Locals program provides qualifying Incline Village/Crystal Bay property owners one time cash incentives when they convert their rooms and properties into a new long-term rental. Placemate launched in Truckee in 2020, and has “unlocked” almost 700 homes, and helped over 1500 locals find housing in 10 markets across the country.

Incentive Amounts:

1. A 5-11 month lease = $2,000 per qualifying tenant (up to 4 Qualifying tenants)

2. A 12+ month lease = $4,500 per qualifying tenant (up to 4 Qualifying tenants)

Property Requirements:

1. The property must be located within the Incline Village Crystal Bay Planning Boundary

2. Cannot have been rented full time within the last 12 months (“ski lease” is ok)

3. The Property must be a single-family home, condo, townhome, accessory dwelling unit, or a single room or group of rooms in an owner-occupied property

4. Rent is capped at $4,500/month

Household Requirements:

1. 50% of the adults in the household must be Qualified Tenants

a. Household income must not average over 200% AMI for all tenants

b. Must work at least 30 hours per week for an employer based within the Incline Village Crystal Bay Planning Boundary

c. Can not be related to the property owner

2. All children cumulatively count as one additional qualified tenant for income calculation

Tenant Placement

1. Homeowners must identify their own tenants and can list their property on the Placemate website for free, if they choose

2. Placemate is happy to work with Property Managers at any point of the process (we do not offer Property Management)

3. We never select tenants on the home owners behalf, nor do we ever charge a fee tohome owners or tenants.

Chase Janvrin

General Manager

chase@placemate.com

www.placemate.com

BY Chris Wood, IVCBA Housing Committee

Washoe County is updating the Area Plan for Incline Village/Crystal Bay to allow higher density housing in Incline Village’s town center. 

The County is conducting workshops for citizen input on the updates. The first workshop is January 6 at 11:30 a.m. (to 1:30 p.m.) in Incline Village at the Community Center (next to the Library). A second workshop is scheduled for January 14 from 3-5:00 p.m. at the Incline Village Raley’s conference room.

By May 25, the County intends to place the final amendments updating the Washoe Tahoe Area Plan (“WTAP”) before the County Planning Commission for a vote.

The WTAP will conform to Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA’s) housing proposals for the entire Lake Tahoe Basin as established in their recently amended Lake Tahoe Area Plan. In town centers, including Incline Village, that plan allows greater height allowance for building up to 65 feet (current is 56 feet). It allows parcel coverage up to 100%  with a storm water treatment system (current: 70%) and “alternative strategies to meet parking demand” for new buildings (currently 1-2 parking spaces required per housing unit).

Since TRPA adopted the amendments at the end of 2023, concerns have continued about whether these proposals will increase workforce housing as needed or whether the WTAP will allow more market-price housing that the workforce cannot afford. The Washoe Tahoe Local Employees Housing Needs Report said in September, 2021, that by 2026, next year, 1,205 affordable housing units are needed. 

While TRPA says its amendments are intended to encourage workforce housing, criticism has been that there are protections absent. The 3 tiers of workforce housing (“Affordable”, Moderate” and “Achievable”) in some instances do not require Tahoe Basin employment, or if these do there is no income or asset cap for the purchaser. This raises the specter of housing not serving its direct purposes.  

     Further, Washoe County in January 2023 amended its development code for the Incline Village town center (“Commercial Regulatory Zone Special Area 1”) to allow single family housing units (condos) in the 45 acres of Incline’s town center only if these are part of “mixed-use” development or “when they are affordable housing units”. There is currently no limitation on market price condominiums in the Washoe County Code in Special Area 1. TRPA’s plan for Washoe Tahoe recommends a minimum of 10% of housing development be workforce housing. Critics say 10% is not enough to serve 90% non-workforce occupants.

Other concerns focus on mechanisms to enforce workforce housing requirements. Deed restrictions are to be used under the WTAP (per TRPA’s Area Plan). Deed restrictions limit who can rent or purchase the affordable housing. Deed restrictions have been in use around the Lake Tahoe Basin for years, but there is no universal enforcement mechanism. While TRPA has performed some limited Deed restriction enforcement, there is no agency in Nevada. 

There are also questions of where in land-challenged Incline Village/Crystal Bay can workforce housing be constructed? Aside from the US Forest Service land (which has over 14 acres already develop in IVCB) other public agencies own approximately 11.5 acres in IVCB. The WTAP (per TRPA) would allow “No Maximum” limit on housing per acre, but if all 11.5 acres were to support 1,200 needed workforce housing units, that would come out to more than 4 times the current unit maximum of 25 per acre. 

Originally published in TRPA Housing Newsletter

Commonly referred to as mother-in-law or granny units, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are smaller homes that share the same lot of a primary residence. Examples include a detached guesthouse or a garage with a rented apartment above. ADUs are one solution to increasing the supply of workforce and affordable housing here and across the nation.

ADUs have many benefits:

• They are built on land that is already owned, making them a more affordable option than developing a vacant parcel.
• They provide an income source to homeowners.
• They are generally less costly to construct than new multifamily projects.
• They provide a flexible living option for individuals, family members, couples, or seniors.
• They are typically funded by the homeowner and do not require public subsidies like many large affordable housing projects.

Recognizing these benefits, TRPA adopted new polices in 2021 that allowed accessory dwelling units for local workers on thousands more parcels in the Tahoe Basin. While there are still challenges to building an ADU, momentum is building. Since 2021, TRPA has permitted 57 total units, 12 of which are constructed to date. 

Learn more about the process to build an ADU and sign up for our Housing eNews.

From Tahoe Living Newsletter – TRPA

Launching Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin

In August, TRPA launched the Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin Project to make housing more accessible while improving environmental protections. In this latest phase of the Tahoe Living initiative, the agency is bringing community members and other partners together in a multi-year project to update the Lake Tahoe Regional Plan, to incentivize the type of housing our community needs while incorporating vital environmental improvements. The Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin Project is an opportunity to build the region’s capacity to deliver more affordable and workforce housing and to create lasting connections between community members and agencies.

Thank you to everyone who has participated to-date in a community workshop, online workshop, small group or Working Group meeting!

GET INVOLVED >

Other TRPA  Milestones in 2024

In addition to launching Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin, TRPA made progress on other housing related projects and programs. All of these are joint efforts with partners and the community:

• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The agency issued 18 ADU permits in 2024 and 4 ADUs were constructed. Since 2020, TRPA has permitted 57 total units, of which 12 are constructed to-date.
• Placer County Tahoe Basin Area Plan. In February, the Governing Board approved amendments to Placer County’s Tahoe Basin Area Plan including policies and regulations encouraging deed-restricted housing in town centers.
• Mixed-Use, Climate Codes and Affordable Housing Requirements.New Mixed-Use and Climate Code Amendments received approval in June, including the requirement for all new condominium projects to make 10 percent of the residential units deed-restricted affordable or moderate-income homes.
• Phase 2 Litigation Settlement. TRPA and Mountain Area Preservation (MAP) reached a settlement agreement on the building incentives adopted by the Governing Board in December 2023, allowing policies that support the development of affordable, moderate, and achievable housing to remain on track. 
• Implementation of Phase 2 Housing Amendments. The Governing Board will hear the City of South Lake Tahoe’s proposed amendments to the Tourist Core Area Plan and the Tahoe Valley Area Plan, both of which incorporate the Phase 2 Housing policies approved by Governing Board in 2023. The City is the first jurisdiction to adopt the Phase 2 Housing Amendments. TRPA is working with the four other local jurisdictions to implement the Phase 2 Housing Amendments into their area plans.
• Spanish eNews. Since 2022, we have doubled our Spanish eNews audience. We are continuing our work to engage Latinos in the region on housing policy.
• #TeamTRPA. To build capacity for our Tahoe Living initiative, we officially welcomed Kaley Arboleda as an Assistant Planner and Housing Outreach Coordinator on the Long-Range Planning Team.

Unlocking Housing Solutions in Incline VillageIntroducing IVCBA’s Housing Committee and Upcoming Initiatives

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Introducing IVCBA’s Housing Committee

Incline Village faces significant housing challenges that impact the entire community.  Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable solutions, the Incline Village Crystal Bay Association (IVCBA) established the Housing Committee earlier this year.  Building upon valuable insights from the Washoe Tahoe Housing Partnership (WTHP) Housing Study and Roadmap, the committee aims to engage the community and represent Incline Village’s needs to Washoe County and the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA).

The Housing Committee consists of dedicated community members who meet regularly to stay informed about the housing landscape in Incline Village.  Through partnerships, speaker events, and increased awareness, the committee fosters collaborative efforts that lead to tangible housing solutions.  By serving as a conduit for community input, the committee strives to ensure that the voices of Incline Village residents are heard in regional housing discussions.

For more information and resources, please visit the housing webpage at ivcba.org/programs/housing/.

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Housing Speaker Series: “Unlocking Housing in Incline Village”

In response to a community survey expressing a strong desire for more information on housing, the IVCBA Housing Committee is launching the Housing Speaker Series.  This initiative is designed to highlight various strategies and opportunities to increase housing availability in the community.

The inaugural event, will introduce the Housing Committee and feature Placemate—a housing marketplace that connects vacation homeowners with local residents seeking long-term rentals—as it prepares to implement its program in Incline Village.

Series Highlights:

• Community Engagement: The series aims to foster open dialogues between residents, local officials, and housing experts, encouraging collaborative solutions.
• Educational Insights: Attendees will gain valuable information on housing initiatives, programs, and incentives that can benefit the community.
• Actionable Strategies: Each session will present practical approaches that individuals and organizations can adopt to contribute to housing solutions.

All community members are invited to join these informative sessions to work collectively towards enhancing housing opportunities in Incline Village.

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Placemate’s “Lease to Locals” Program

Washoe County has allocated funding to bring Placemate’s successful “Lease to Locals” program to Incline Village.  This initiative incentivizes property owners to convert unused housing—such as second homes—into long-term rentals for local residents.  By offering financial rewards, the program encourages homeowners to provide much-needed rental options for the workforce, including teachers, first responders, and service industry employees.

Implementation in Incline Village:

• Partnership with Washoe County: The program collaborates with local authorities to ensure seamless integration into the community.
• Proven Success: Placemate has demonstrated effectiveness in South Lake Tahoe and Truckee, resulting in increased housing availability for local workers.

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TRPA and Washoe County Housing Updates

Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Initiatives

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) has introduced policy changes to address Lake Tahoe’s housing challenges while maintaining the highest environmental standards.  New adjustments to height, density, and coverage regulations, particularly in town centers, make it more feasible for developers to create affordable housing.

In 2024, TRPA settled with Mountain Area Preservation (MAP), allowing the agency to continue implementing land-use policies that balance affordable housing needs with conservation efforts.  The ongoing “Tahoe Living: Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin” initiative actively integrates housing, transit, and emissions reduction, emphasizing sustainable growth for the region.

Washoe County’s Zoning Amendments

Last year, Washoe County amended its Tahoe Area Plan for Incline Village Town Center’s Special Area 1 zoning.  These changes allow for increased height, density, and coverage, aiming to expand housing options and address the shortage for both workforce and local residents.  The amendments strive to promote affordable housing while also creating opportunities for a variety of developments.

Washoe County aims to create policies consistent with the housing and environmental goals of TRPA, with a special focus on the needs of Washoe Tahoe.  The IVCBA Housing Committee plays a crucial role in identifying and communicating these needs to the county, ensuring that community interests are represented.

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Truckee Tahoe Workforce Housing Agency (TTWHA)

The Truckee Tahoe Workforce Housing Agency (TTWHA) is adopting a collaborative approach to increase affordable workforce housing in the Truckee-Tahoe region.  Through partnerships with public and private entities, the agency plans to develop new housing, protect existing affordable units, and advocate for supportive policy changes.

Key Initiatives:

• Promoting Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Simplifying processes to encourage the development of ADUs.
• Securing Land for Housing Projects: Identifying and acquiring suitable land for affordable housing developments.
• Employer-Assisted Housing Benefits: Collaborating with local employers to offer housing benefits that support employee retention.

TTWHA’s current strategic plan (2023–2028) outlines goals ranging from launching pilot projects and establishing a housing resource center to scaling programs and advocating for sustainable policy reforms.  By focusing on funding, community education, and data-driven strategies, the agency seeks to enhance housing access, support the regional workforce, and improve the quality of life for local residents.

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Mountain Housing Council (MHC)

The Mountain Housing Council (MHC) is a collaborative organization dedicated to addressing housing challenges in the North Lake Tahoe-Truckee region.  Comprising over 25 stakeholders—including local governments, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and community groups—the MHC focuses on accelerating solutions for affordable housing availability for the local workforce.

Key Focus Areas:

• Convening Partners for Collective Action: Bringing together diverse groups to collaborate on housing initiatives.
• State-Level Advocacy: Influencing policy and securing funding to support housing projects.
• Community Engagement: Engaging residents to participate in creating sustainable housing solutions.

Through policy advocacy, strategic partnerships, and community involvement, the MHC aims to develop innovative housing solutions that meet the community’s diverse needs.

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Tahoe Housing Hub in Tahoe City

Located in Tahoe City, the Tahoe Housing Hub combines advocacy with direct involvement in housing development, especially on small to mid-scale projects.  As a 501(c)(4) organization, it actively advocates for housing policies while providing hands-on support, including planning and building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Unique Role:

• Direct Housing Creation: Assisting in the development of housing units to fill immediate needs.
• Policy Advocacy: Engaging at local and regional levels to influence housing policies.
• Complementary Efforts: Working alongside organizations like TTWHA and MHC to address gaps in housing solutions.

By filling critical gaps in direct housing creation, the Tahoe Housing Hub contributes effectively to creating a more inclusive and accessible housing environment in the North Lake Tahoe-Truckee region.

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St. Joseph Community Land Trust in South Lake Tahoe

The St. Joseph Community Land Trust has successfully developed Phase I of its 248 deed-restricted units for low-income families in South Lake Tahoe.  This project serves as an inspiring example of how community-focused initiatives can create affordable housing that enhances residents’ quality of life.

Project Highlights:

• Innovative Construction: Utilizing modular components constructed off-site and assembled on-site, streamlining the building process.
• Community Impact: Providing secure, affordable housing options for low-income families, strengthening the community fabric.

This initiative demonstrates the potential of collaborative efforts to address housing shortages effectively.

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Moving Forward: Community Participation is Key

Working on housing solutions requires collective input and action.  The IVCBA Housing Committee encourages community members to engage with these initiatives, attend the Housing Speaker Series, and explore ways to contribute to sustainable housing solutions.

How to Get Involved:

• Attend the Housing Speaker Series: Participate in informative sessions to learn and share ideas.
• Visit the Housing Webpage: Access resources and stay updated on housing initiatives at ivcba.org/programs/housing/.
• Join the Conversation: Engage with local organizations and provide input on housing needs and solutions.

By working together, the community can make meaningful strides towards enhancing housing opportunities in Incline Village.

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About the Author

Jonathon Gardner is an active member of the Incline Village community and a dedicated advocate for sustainable housing solutions.  Through his involvement with the IVCBA Housing Committee, he works to engage residents and promote initiatives that address the housing needs of the area.

What is an ADU?

ADUs are secondary housing units on single-family residential lots, which can be either attached or detached from the main house. They offer a flexible and relatively low-cost housing option that can help address housing shortages by providing additional rental units or living space for family members.

What does Washoe County say?

From the Washoe County Development Code December 2023:

1. Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit:

   – A detached accessory dwelling unit is a separate dwelling on the same lot as the main dwelling unit.

   – It includes independent living facilities such as a kitchen and bathroom.

   – Maximum size: 1,500 sq. ft. or 50% of the main dwelling unit’s size (whichever is smaller), except in the Medium Density Suburban (MDS) zone where the limit is 1,200 sq. ft.

   – Typical uses: guest houses, second units, “granny flats,” and caretaker’s quarters.

   – Source: Page 304-3.

2. Minor Accessory Dwelling Unit:

   – Defined as a detached accessory dwelling unit under 500 sq. ft.

   – Must include kitchen and bathroom facilities.

   – Maximum size: 500 sq. ft. or 50% of the main dwelling unit’s size (whichever is smaller).

   – Typical uses: guest houses, second units, “granny flats,” and caretaker’s quarters.

   – Source: Page 304-3.

3. General Requirements:

   – One accessory dwelling unit per parcel.

   – Minimum lot area: 12,000 sq. ft.

   – Compliance with setback and height standards of the regulatory zone.

   – Installation of a water meter if using a domestic well.

   – On parcels 0.5 acres or smaller, ADUs require administrative review.

   – Detached accessory dwelling units may be converted to main dwelling units through parcel subdivision.

   – Source: Page 306-8 and Page 306-9.

4. Parking Requirements:

   – One additional off-street parking space is required for an accessory dwelling unit.

   – Additional parking may be required based on Article 410, Parking and Loading.

   – Source: Page 306-8.

5. Attached Accessory Dwellings:

   – Permitted in General Rural (GR), General Rural Agricultural (GRA), and Residential Regulatory Zones.

   – Must abut the habitable space of the main dwelling unit.

   – Maximum size: 1,500 sq. ft. or 50% of the main dwelling unit’s size (whichever is smaller), with exceptions for certain zones.

   – One additional off-street parking space is required.

   – Source: Page 306-7.

6. Additional Regulations for Minor Accessory Dwelling Units:

   – Located as close as 5 feet from the side and rear property lines if 12 feet in height or less.

   – For parcels larger than 0.5 acres, no off-street parking space is required.

   – Source: Page 306-9.

Future Plans in Washoe:

Washoe ADU Overview and Amendment Plan (amendments not applicable to Tahoe Planning Area)

What does TRPA say?

TRPA Code of Ordinances Amended December 13, 2023

21.3.2. Accessory Dwelling Units (formerly Secondary Residences)

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) shall be considered an accessory use to the primary use it serves and may be permitted where the primary use is a permissible use. An accessory dwelling unit shall be considered a residential unit subject to the residential allocation limitations and transfer provisions. An accessory dwelling unit shall be eligible for a residential bonus unit provided it meets the requirements of Section 52.3.4. Accessory dwelling units shall not be considered in the calculation of density.

A. Up to two accessory dwelling units per parcel shall be considered accessory uses where the primary use is a single-family or multi-family use and is a permissible use. These units may include a guest house or an affordable, moderate, achievable, or market-rate rental unit. They may be attached, within, or detached from the main dwelling.

B. One accessory dwelling unit shall be considered an accessory use where the primary use is a commercial use, public service, or recreational use. These units may include an affordable or market-rate rental unit; a caretaker residence; and a manager’s quarters for a tourist accommodation use or multi residential use

other than multi-family.

TRPA Website on ADU Process:

Commonly referred to as secondary dwelling, mother-in-law, or granny units, ADUs are smaller units that share the same lot of a larger, primary residence. Examples include a detached guest house or a garage with a rented apartment above. ADUs have many benefits: they are an affordable type of home to construct because they are built on land that is already owned, they provide an income source to homeowners, they are typically less costly to construct than new multifamily developments, and provide a flexible living option for individuals, family members, couples, or seniors. Because of these benefits, ADUs have been identified in jurisdictions around the country as one solution to increasing the supply of workforce and affordable housing.

Based on outcomes from the Tahoe Living Housing and Revitalization Working Group, a committee of the Advisory Planning Commission, as of September 29, 2021, the TRPA Code allows ADUs on all California residential parcels, subject to local jurisdiction rules and regulations. In Nevada, ADUs are only allowed on parcels larger than one acre. Major elements of TRPA’s ADU regulations include:

• Up to two ADUs per parcel are allowed on all California residential parcels, to accommodate one detached ADU and one attached ADU.
• ADUs must comply with existing coverage regulations.
• ADUs must comply with existing development rights requirements.
• On parcels with a land capability rating of 1-3, only deed-restricted ADUs are allowed.

To stay up to date on future discussions related to housing, subscribe to our housing e-news. Just send an e-mail to enews@trpa.gov with “Housing” in the subject line.

Washoe Tahoe Housing Partnership Roadmap | May 10, 2023

Summary of the ADU information from the WTHP Roadmap:

1. ADU Definition and Benefits (Page 43): The document defines Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as “units that can be developed on existing residential lots, either within an existing dwelling or adjacent to it.” It also mentions Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) as units no more than 500 square feet in size contained within an existing single-family structure.
2. ADUs as a Strategy for Increasing Housing Inventory (Page 43): The Roadmap recognizes ADUs as a path to increasing the inventory of homes available to rent for the local workforce.
3. TRPA ADU Program (Page 43): The document mentions that TRPA has embraced ADUs and offers incentives in the form of bonus units for homeowners who build ADUs and rent them to qualified tenants.
4. Recommendations for the 2023 Washoe Tahoe Area Plan Amendment (Pages 43-44): The Roadmap suggests several updates related to ADUs: a. Add ADU and Junior ADU Code language specific to the Tahoe-only area of the County. b. Expand standards and update the definition, changing “detached accessory dwelling” to “accessory dwelling unit.” c. Amend zoning policy to remove the one-acre parcel limit. d. Consider removing affordability restrictions to incentivize construction but restrict short-term use. e. Add clear language about Junior ADUs. f. Consider removing the special use permit requirement and adopt TRPA “bonus unit” incentive.
5. Impact on Incline Village: While the document doesn’t specifically mention Incline Village in relation to ADUs, these recommendations would likely affect Incline Village as part of the Washoe Tahoe area. The removal of the one-acre parcel limit could be particularly impactful, potentially allowing more properties in Incline Village to develop ADUs.
6. Current Limitations (Implied): The recommendations suggest that current regulations in the Washoe Tahoe area, including Incline Village, may be more restrictive than desired for promoting ADU development. The proposed changes aim to make it easier and more attractive for homeowners to build ADUs.
7. Alignment with Regional Goals: The promotion of ADUs aligns with the overall goal of the Roadmap to increase housing opportunities for the local workforce in the Washoe Tahoe area, including Incline Village.

Washoe Tahoe Local Employee Housing Needs and Opportunities | September 2021

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Definition and Benefits:

• ADUs are secondary housing units on single-family residential lots, which can be either attached or detached from the main house. They offer a flexible and relatively low-cost housing option that can help address housing shortages by providing additional rental units or living space for family members.

Key Points:

1. Housing Options Expansion: ADUs provide an opportunity to increase the housing supply without significant changes to neighborhood character.
2. Cost-Effective: They are typically less expensive to build than new single-family homes and can provide a source of rental income for homeowners.
3. Zoning and Regulations: Local regulations play a critical role in the development and use of ADUs. Flexibility in zoning laws, including reduced parking requirements and streamlined permitting processes, can encourage the construction of more ADUs.
4. Potential Challenges: Issues such as neighborhood opposition, infrastructure capacity, and the cost of construction can pose challenges to the widespread adoption of ADUs.
5. Recommendations: To facilitate the development of ADUs, it is recommended to provide incentives such as reduced fees, pre-approved design plans, and technical assistance for homeowners interested in building ADUs.

The information about Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) can be found on the following pages of the document:

1. Pages 50-51: These pages discuss ADUs, describing them as smaller, independent residential units located on the same lot as a primary dwelling. They are seen as a way to provide additional housing options without requiring significant new infrastructure.
2. Page 55: This page highlights the potential of ADUs to help address the housing shortage by increasing the availability of smaller, more affordable housing units within established neighborhoods.
3. Page 63: This page mentions policy recommendations and considerations for implementing ADUs, including easing zoning restrictions and providing incentives for homeowners to build ADUs.

These sections provide a comprehensive view of the role ADUs could play in addressing housing needs in the Washoe-Tahoe area.

Examples and Case Studies:

• ADUs have been successfully implemented in various regions as a means to increase affordable housing options. They are particularly beneficial in high-demand areas where land is scarce and expensive.

The document “Washoe Tahoe Local Employee Housing Needs and Opportunities” provides detailed examples and case studies on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and related housing initiatives in various high-cost mountain communities. Here are some key examples and case studies:

1. Santa Barbara Coastal Housing Partnership, CA: This program offers employer memberships that grant access to various Employer-Assisted Housing (EAH) opportunities. They provide short, helpful videos on their website to guide employees through available options.
2. Jackson, WY: The local school district provided land for the Community Housing Trust to develop and manage ownership projects for school employees. This collaboration ensures housing availability for essential workers in the education sector.
3. Big Sky, MT: Habitat for Humanity is constructing homes for school district employees on land provided by the school district. This initiative helps secure housing for teachers and other school staff, making it easier to recruit and retain employees.
4. Sierra Business Council, Truckee, CA: They offer various assistance programs, including first/last month’s rent assistance and the Martis Fund down payment assistance program management. These programs help local employees secure stable housing.
5. Vail Resorts, multiple locations: Vail Resorts has implemented a master lease program and housing development initiatives to provide accommodation for their employees. These efforts ensure that their workforce has access to affordable housing close to their workplace.

Additionally, the document highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in developing local resident and employee housing. It suggests evaluating publicly owned land for potential housing development and collaborating with employers to provide housing solutions for their employees.

For specific details and references, you can find the relevant information on the following pages of the document:

• Page 3: Santa Barbara Coastal Housing Partnership, Jackson, WY, Big Sky, MT, Sierra Business Council, and Vail Resorts examples .
• Page 65-66: Opportunities and challenges in providing local employee housing and potential land and redevelopment opportunities .

Summary of the Key Points:

1. From the Washoe County Development Code (December 2023):

• Defines different types of ADUs: Detached (up to 1,500 sq. ft.), Minor (under 500 sq. ft.), and Attached.
• One ADU allowed per parcel, with a minimum lot area of 12,000 sq. ft.
• Parking requirements: One additional off-street parking space for most ADUs.
• Specific regulations for size, location, and zoning compliance.

2. From the TRPA Code of Ordinances (December 2023):

• Allows up to two ADUs per parcel where the primary use is single-family or multi-family.
• One ADU allowed for commercial, public service, or recreational primary uses.
• ADUs are subject to residential allocation limitations but not included in density calculations.

3. From the TRPA website:

• ADUs are allowed on all California residential parcels, subject to local rules.
• In Nevada, ADUs are only allowed on parcels larger than one acre.
• ADUs must comply with existing coverage and development rights requirements.

4. From the Washoe Tahoe Housing Partnership (WTHP) Roadmap:

• Recommends updating the Washoe Tahoe Area Plan to expand ADU opportunities.
• Suggests removing the one-acre parcel limit and affordability restrictions.
• Proposes adopting TRPA “bonus unit” incentives and removing special use permit requirements.

5. From the Washoe Tahoe Local Employee Housing Needs and Opportunities report:

• Highlights ADUs as a flexible, cost-effective way to increase housing supply.
• Recommends providing incentives like reduced fees and pre-approved design plans.
• Presents case studies from other high-cost mountain communities implementing housing solutions, including ADU programs and employer-assisted housing initiatives.

ADUs in Washoe Tahoe

1. From the TRPA website: The most direct information about ADUs in Nevada comes from this source, which states: “In Nevada, ADUs are only allowed on parcels larger than one acre.”

This is a significant restriction compared to the California side of Lake Tahoe, where ADUs are allowed on all residential parcels.

2. From the TRPA Code of Ordinances: While not specific to Nevada, the TRPA regulations apply to the entire Tahoe Basin, including the Nevada side. According to these regulations:

• Up to two ADUs per parcel are allowed where the primary use is a single-family or multi-family use.
• One ADU is allowed where the primary use is commercial, public service, or recreational.
• ADUs are subject to residential allocation limitations and transfer provisions.
• ADUs are eligible for residential bonus units if they meet certain requirements.

3. From the Washoe County Development Code: While this code applies to Washoe County, which includes the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe (including Incline Village), it doesn’t specifically differentiate between Nevada and California. It provides general regulations for ADUs in the county, including:

• Maximum sizes for different types of ADUs
• Parking requirements
• General requirements like minimum lot size (12,000 sq. ft.)

4. From the Washoe Tahoe Housing Partnership Roadmap: This document recommends changes to ADU regulations in the Washoe Tahoe area, which would affect the Nevada side. Key recommendations include:

• Removing the one-acre parcel limit
• Expanding standards and updating definitions
• Considering the removal of affordability restrictions to incentivize construction

It’s important to note that these are recommendations and not current regulations.

In summary, ADUs in Washoe Tahoe, are currently more restricted than on the California side, with the notable limitation of only being allowed on parcels larger than one acre. However, there are efforts and recommendations to expand ADU opportunities in the Nevada portion of the Tahoe area. The actual implementation of any changes would require updates to local and regional regulations.

Submitted via monthly Newsletter from TRPA

Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) staff have been assisting local jurisdiction partners on updates to their area plans, which is a critical step to implement regional changes for affordable housing options. Area plans are a signature element of the 2012 Regional Plan and allow local jurisdictions to implement Regional Plan policies at the community scale.

Today, there are six active area plans in the basin. In order to adapt to new environmental, economic and equity priorities, area plans need to be updated from time to time, and TRPA is processing several amendments in the upcoming months. These amendments will also implement the Phase 2 Housing Amendments that provide building incentives for deed-restricted housing.

Meet Michelle Brown: Long Range Planner

Michelle jokes that she has made full circle. A California native and graduate from Cal Poly Humboldt (then Humboldt State University), Michelle started her career in natural resource and land use management with the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, United States Forest Service (USFS). Her tenure with the USFS took her from Lake Tahoe to northwestern California to northwestern Colorado researching rare and endangered plant species. Her botanical career path eventually came to a fork in the road and she decided to take the road less traveled as a senior planner in a small eastern North Carolina town. Working for a small municipality she wore many hats and managed a range of programs, such as urban forestry, brownfields, local foods, and bicycle and pedestrian routes.

Her family has lived in Tahoe for nearly four decades, and she returned to the west coast to be closer to her siblings. On the TRPA Long Range Planning team she plays a key role in updating Area Plans, and in managing and updating TRPA’s deed-restriction program. Michelle explains, “I hope to make it easier for folks who live and work here to call Tahoe home”.

In her free time Michelle enjoys good food and wine to fuel her adventures hiking, cross country skiing, and kayaking in the Lake Tahoe Region.

TRPA is seeking volunteer models!

nterested in being part of a housing photoshoot or have a home in the basin we could highlight in our eNews and outreach materials? TRPA is seeking volunteers.

Reach out to Kaley Arboleda, karboleda@trpa.gov, if you are interested in participating.

Applications Open for Community-Based Organization Mini Grants

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency has introduced a mini grant program to encourage community-based organizations to have a more central role in the planning process. This call for participation focuses on representing priority communities impacted by the housing crisis. TRPA identified priority communities through the Lake Tahoe Transportation Equity Study last year and is applying their demographics to the Tahoe Living initiative.Application deadlines are coming up:Apply for a Community-Based Organization Mini Grant – by December 2.Note: TRPA amended the application packet to allow 501c3s and other types of tax-exempt organizations to apply. 

Learn More

News and Resources

Article: One possible housing crisis solution? A new kind of public housing for all income levels, NPR, October 7, 2024

Webinar: The Impact of Parking Mandates in Washington, Parking Reform Network, November 13

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