FAQs

Digital signs are only allowed in C2, TC, Industrial, and PF over ten (10) acres in size zoning districts. The digital face can only be a portion of a freestanding or monument sign. There are specific operation standards and requirements for all digital signs including for special freestanding signs. Refer to Sparks Municipal Code Section 20.04 (I)(6).

The required landscaping area for new development is based on the zoning district. Table 20.04.007-1 Required Landscaping lists the zoning district and the minimum required landscape area. The Landscape and Screening Section of the Code covers specifics required for the plans and number of plants. Refer to Sparks Municipal Code Section 20.04.006 Landscaping and Screening for details.

The number of parking spaces is based on the land use. Table 20.04.011-3 Parking Ratios lists the use and the minimum parking space numbers. The Parking Section of the Code also has the geometrics for the design of a parking lot. Refer to Sparks Municipal Code Section 20.04.009 Parking and Loading for details.

  • Sheds not greater than 200 square feet do not require a building permit. They shall be located in the side or rear yard a minimum of three (3) feet from the side and rear property lines and at least five (5) feet from the main structure.  
  • Sheds greater than 200 square feet require a building permit.  They shall be a minimum of five (5) feet from the side and rear property lines, and at least five (5) feet from the main structure.

Remember, if the property is included in a Home Owner's Association (HOA), approval from the HOA is required prior to construction. Refer to Sparks Municipal Code Section 20.04.002 Accessory Structures for more details

A temporary use permit is required for the following uses: Seasonal sales (Christmas tree or pumpkin lots), construction yards, farmer’s markets, garage and yard sales, outdoor events, model home complexes and temporary sales office trailers. The need for a non-profit organization selling cookies, popcorn, etc, to obtain a temporary use permit has been removed if the standards listed below can be met.   For more information, refer to Sparks Municipal Code Section 20.03.040.

  • A Temporary Use Permit is not required
  • A valid City Business License shall be obtained.
  • Walkways shall not be obstructed, or clear width reduced to less than 8 feet.
  • Required parking shall not be reduced because of the temporary use.
  • Vehicle circulation shall not be inhibited due to the temporary use.
  • The temporary use shall be located at a site with a valid City Business License.
  • The temporary use shall not exceed the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • At the termination of the temporary use, the site shall be completely cleared of all debris/materials associated with the temporary use.
  • The Non-profit organization shall obtain written permission from the property owner where the temporary use will occur.
  • The Administrator may add additional conditions to protect the health, safety and welfare of the community.
  • If the Non-profit organization cannot comply with one or more of these conditions, the Administrator may consider requests for exemption(s).

A temporary sign permit is required for any sign that is to be used on short term basis and is not permanently attached to a structure or ground. This includes portable signs, banners, pennants and inflatables. There is an application with a $35 filing fee. You will be issued a sticker which must be placed on the temporary sign(s). The approval of temporary signs is based on a calendar year (January through December). Temporary signs must be renewed annually, maintained in good condition, and cannot inhibit vehicular or pedestrian circulation. Refer to Sparks Municipal Code Section 20.04 (K) Temporary Signs for details.

Chickens may be kept in any SF, MF, MUD-MR or MUD-RN zoning district. No roosters are permitted. Limits apply based on parcel size. Poultry may not have access to the front yard, site must be kept clean from droppings and dead chickens, and must be kept in a coop and enclosed covered enclosure of ten (10) square feet per hen located no closer than ten (10) feet from main structure and five (5) feet from rear or side property lines. Refer to Sparks Municipal Code Section 20.03.047.

The deadline for the application depends on the type of application. The application packet includes the submittal schedule and filing fees. Use the link to access Development Applications and associated dates.

Use the “What’s My Zoning?” map on the City’s webpage under Planning and Zoning and change the layer to Land Use to identify your property either using your street address or Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN).

Use the “What’s My Zoning?” map on the City’s webpage under Planning and Zoning and change the layer to Land Use to identify your property either using your street address or Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN).