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County Home => Washoe County => Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find a compilation of frequently asked questions from departments in the County.

To find the answer to a question below, simply click on the question.

If you have been charged with a crime and are facing the potential of a jail sentence, you may apply for legal representation if you cannot afford to hire a lawyer. At the time of your first appearance before the Judge, let the Judge know that you would like an attorney to be appointed to represent you. You will have to meet with an employee of Court Services, who will make the determination on whether or not you qualify.



If you are a parent and Social Services have removed your children, placing them in the care and custody of Washoe County, you may apply for the legal representation as well. Again, you must make the request at the Family Court located at One S. Sierra Street, on the second floor, and the application process can begin.

No. Only those who are facing jail or prison time or parents who are facing losing permanent custody of their children through government action are entitled to free legal representation.

Every attorney employed by the Alternate Public Defender`s office is an employee of Washoe County.

Yes. Every attorney in the Alternate Public Defender`s Office has graduated from law school, and taken and passed the Nevada Bar Exam. In order to be employed as an attorney in the APD office, the lawyer must be licensed in the State of Nevada to practice law.

The lawyers in the APD`s office practice in several different courts. There are attorneys who defend adults and juveniles charged with every type of crime, from misdemeanor to murder. Some of the lawyers here work in the family court, representing parents whose children have been removed from the home and are in the care and custody of Washoe County. There is also a lawyer who defends those who are participating in drug, diversion, or mental health court.

The Washoe County Public Defender`s Office initially takes every case where a person has been appointed a lawyer. The cases are then screened by staff members to see if there is a conflict of interest. Conflicts of interest can arise if the Public Defender has represented a victim or witness in a case, or if there is more than one defendant charged with the crime. If the Public Defender`s Office determines that there is a legal reason it cannot represent a person, then that case is sent to the Alternate Public Defender`s Office.



If the Alternate Public Defender’s office also has a conflict of interest, then a private lawyer will handle the case.

The Alternate Public Defender`s Office is located at 350 S. Center Street, on the Sixth Floor, in Reno Nevada. The phone number for the office is (775) 328-3955; the fax number is (775) 328-3998.

Once the Alternate Public Defender`s Office is appointed to represent you, we will send you a letter giving you your court date and the name of your lawyer. If you have not received the letter, please call the APD office at (775) 328-3955, and ask the receptionist for the information.

No. You are entitled to an attorney, but you are not entitled to the attorney of you choice. Once an attorney in the Alternate Public Defender`s Office has been appointed to represent you, that person will remain your attorney until the case is concluded. Your only other option is to hire private counsel, if you can afford to do so, or to try to represent yourself, which is never a wise choice.
To report a barking or noisy dog, or other non-emergency animal issue, please submit your concern online at http://www.washoecounty.us/animal/fieldrequest.html .Your report will be submitted to an animal control officer for follow up. Online reporting is for non emergency calls only. For a concern that requires immediate officer response, please call Dispatch at (775) 322-3467.
The Office of the Washoe County Assessor mails assessment notices as a courtesy to the property owners of Washoe County to inform them of the proposed taxable and assessed value of the real property on the tax roll for the next fiscal year.
The Assessor`s Office makes every effort to send each property owner a value notice; however postal delays cannot be controlled. If you would like to verify that this office has the correct mailing address please contact our office at (775) 328-2233. You can also verify your mailing address on line by going to Real Property Assessment Data then click on "Go To Search Page". There you will be able to look up your parcel using your Parcel Number, Street Address, or Owner Name.

The full secured tax roll will be printed in the newspaper, per NRS 361 , before the first day in January. Copies will be available at the Washoe County Assessors Office and at Washoe County Libraries.
No, tax bills are mailed by the Washoe County Treasurer. Tax bills for the secured tax roll are mailed in July of each year. Tax bills for unsecured real property are mailed in November
The Taxable Value can change because of a boundary change, new construction, a change in use, a mandatory five year reappraisal, factoring in years a reappraisal is not done, or any combination of these factors.
  • Boundary changes occur when old parcels are either divided or combined.
  • New construction includes new buildings, additions, remodeling, etc.
  • Changes in use can include such changes as converting a residence to office or retail use or land from agricultural use to residential use.
  • Reappraisal of property is done annually. Improvements are recalculated to current cost of replacement, less depreciation and land is revalued to reflect the current market.
If we are unable to resolve your concerns you can appeal to the County Board of Equalization for a review of your property`s taxable value. The appeal forms may be obtained by contacting our office or the Nevada Department of Taxation. Your appeal must be filed by January 15th.

Please note: the burden of proof is on the taxpayer to show that the valuation is in error or that the taxable value exceeds full cash value (market value).

Also note: the role of the Assessor is property valuations, not property tax rates or taxes. Questions concerning your tax rates or taxes should be directed to your County Commissioner or locally elected state representative.

The appeal form and additional information can be found on our website on our Assessment Notice/Appeal Information page.
This is your first opportunity to review the proposed taxable value of your property. If you believe that this new value is in error or is above the full cash value for your property, please call (775) 328-2233 or visit the Assessor`s office at 1001 E Ninth St. and ask to speak to an appraiser. Upon request, our office will furnish a copy of the most recent appraisal of the property and more often than not your question or concern can be resolved on the initial phone call or visit. Information on your property assessment can also be found through our Property Assessment Data web pages.

Click here for For Real Property Assessment Data. Data updated nightly and will give you specific information for the parcels.
NRS 361.471-361.4735 provides for a partial abatement of taxes by limiting or "capping" the amount a tax bill can increase from year to year. The increase is limited to 3% for an owner occupied primary residence (single-family home, townhouse, condominium or manufactured home) and certain qualified rental properties. Tax bills for all other properties (residences that are not owner occupied, land, commercial buildings, business personal property, aircraft, etc.) are limited to a percentage not to exceed 8%.
  • If the property is your primary residence within the State of Nevada, the abatement equals the amount of taxes that exceed last year`s tax bill plus 3%.
  • If the property contains rental unit(s) and the rent on all units within the property are at or below the fair market rent for the county in which the dwelling is located, as most recently published by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the abatement equals the amount of taxes which exceed last year`s tax bill plus 3%.


  • Most other properties (rental units where the rent exceeds the HUD guidelines, commercial, industrial, vacant land, mixed use, etc.), except as noted below, are subject to an abatement at a higher level which is calculated by comparing


  • (1) The greater of: (I) The average percentage of change in the assessed valuation of all the taxable property in the county, as determined by the Department, over the fiscal year in which the levy is made and the 9 immediately preceding fiscal years; (II) Twice the percentage of increase in the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (All Items) for the immediately preceding calendar year; or (III) Zero; or (2) Eight percent, whichever is less.


  • For 2009, the result of the above is 7.7%
Because the current year tax bill is calculated based on the prior year tax bill, changes in assessed value do not have as much impact on a tax bill (up or down) as they did prior to the law change.

The abatement is the amount of additional taxes that would have been owed if not for the tax cap. For a property with a 3% tax cap, if the 2008 tax bill was $1,000 the 2009 tax bill could be no more than $1,030 even if the calculated taxes (assessed value x tax rate) were $1,050.

In the example above the $20 difference between the actual tax bill of $1,030 and the calculated tax bill of $1,050 is the abatement.

The abatement amount is identified on the tax bill. A decrease in assessed value will not result in a decrease in taxes until the prior year`s tax bill plus your tax cap percentage is greater than your actual calculated taxes. In an increasing market you may receive abatement for each year. In a declining or stagnant market your tax bill may eventually increase until there is no abatement for a tax year.

For most properties, fiscal year 2004/05 is the base year for applying the tax cap and calculating the abatement. Although values may have increased in succeeding years, the new law limits the increase to a tax bill to 3% or 8%.

Any increase in value (except increases due to improvement to or changes in the actual or authorized use of the property) that would cause a property owners tax bill to increase by more than 3% or 8% results in an abatement of the taxes.

For parcels created after fiscal year 2004/05, which are designated as "new parcels", the base year would be the year the parcel was created and the abatement and tax cap would apply from that year forward.

Click here for additional examples
All owner occupied homes (including single-family homes, condos, townhouses and manufactured homes) that are used as primary residences qualify for the 3% tax cap. Also, rental units may be eligible if all the units are rented for equal to or less than the HUD median market rents.
The statutes provide for a partial abatement of the ad valorem taxes levied on a qualified property. The effect of this partial abatement results in a Tax Cap. The tax cap will limit the increase of your tax bill to 3% over the previous year`s tax amount for your primary residence within Nevada or rental properties where the rent charged does not exceed the fair market rent for the county in which the dwelling is located, as most recently published by HUD. Most other property will receive a higher "cap", which, for 2009/2010 is 7.7 % over the previous years tax bill. This higher cap is subject to change yearly. It does not limit the increase in assessed value.
A residence which is designated by the owner as the primary residence of the owner in this State, exclusive of any other residence of the owner in this State; AND

Which is not rented, leased or otherwise made available for exclusive occupancy by any person other than the owner of the residence and members of the family of the owner.
The exemption will be applied to the tax bill after the cap is applied.
The following situations could cause an increase of more than the prescribed cap:

An exemption, which was applied to last years tax bill, was removed for the current year.

There was a change in use for the property such as a zoning change or mobile home conversion.

There was new construction or improvement to the property.

New, Voter approved, increases were levied or the property was annexed into a district with a higher tax rate.

There are items billed on your tax bill that are not ad valorem taxes. These are not affected by the tax cap, and could increase more than the prescribed cap.
Not necessarily, any property where the percentage of tax increase is less than the corresponding cap, and there is no prior abatement, will only be billed the original increase of the taxes. The corresponding cap will not automatically increase the tax bill.
If you live in the home you own, it is considered your primary residence and therefore qualifies for the 3% tax cap.
The rent you are charging would need to be equal to or less than the HUD median market rent in order to qualify for the 3% cap. The higher cap would apply unless it is a new property for this year, which does not have a cap.
If you own both the land and the manufactured home, and occupy the manufactured home as your primary residence you are eligible for the 3% tax cap on the land and manufactured home. This applies even if the manufactured home has not been converted to real property.

If you own the manufactured home but not the land, the manufactured home is eligible for the 3% tax cap. The cap level for the land would be determined based on the space rent charged.

If you own the land but not the manufactured home you would not be eligible for the 3% tax cap unless the space rent is less than the HUD median market rent.

If you own the land and the manufactured home but they are a rental, you are eligible for the 3% tax cap only if the rent you are charging is equal to or less than the HUD median market rent.
Yes, as long as you are not already claiming another property in the State of Nevada as your primary residence.
Each and every rental unit on the parcel must be rented for equal to or less than the HUD median market rent. All units must qualify.
If your parcel has a land use code (zoning) of residential, your property would still qualify for the 3% tax cap.
If your parcel has a land use code (zoning) of commercial and it also includes your primary residence, the residential portion of your property can qualify for the 3% cap.

The county assessor may determine the separate portions of your property that are commercial (nonqualifying) and residential (qualifying) and apply to each such portion the appropriate partial abatement from property taxes.
The transfer of ownership of property will trigger a new affidavit to be mailed to the new owner to verify the status. The new affidavits will be mailed in April and August.
The 3% tax cap is applied to your tax amount, not the assessed value of your property.
No, you must sign the application and, if necessary, the rental questionnaire as the property owner. We will send the documents to you upon request.
If this is your primary residence-No, but you will not qualify for the tax cap if you do not, and you must sign the form.

If this is a rental property - Nevada Administrative Code 361.607(2)(a) states: A claim for a residential rental abatement must be filed annually with the county assessor of the county in which the property is located not later than June 15 of each year; and......

Additionally, incomplete and/or unsigned forms may result in the property not qualifying for the lower tax cap which may result in a higher tax bill.
No. Any owner or legally authorized agent may sign the letter.
Yes, all properties in which the beneficary of the trust occupy as their primary residence would qualify for the 3% tax cap.
No, only the amount of increase on your tax bill is capped.
No, only the amount of increase on your tax bill is capped.
No, the cap is applied based on the status effective July 1st of that fiscal year ( our fiscal year is July 1 thru June 30). You can change your property qualification to primary residence effective July 1st of the following year.
No, if you rent by the day, your property would be considered transient lodging, which does not qualify.

A better way to do the math would be: Rent of $400 a day X 30 days in a month = $12,000 a month rent, which is above HUD median market rent, and would not qualify.
No, transient lodging does not qualify.
The home in Nevada could qualify as your primary residence provided it meets all the previously stated requirements and it is not rented out at any time when you are not occupying the home.

If it is a full time rental and meets the HUD low rental guidelines it may qualify for the 3% residential rental tax cap.
You can have only one primary residence in Nevada, however, if each home that you own has a family member living in it full time, that does not pay any rent, then that home would qualify for the 3% cap as a rental, renting below HUD median market rent. (The rent would be $0.00 a month.)
The Assessor`s Office has created a form for you to fill out to appeal the decision made on the tax cap applied to your property. You can obtain that form by calling, writing or coming in to the Assessor`s Office and asking for the Partial Abatement, "tax cap", appeal form. It is also available on their web site:

Jump to Appeal Form Link

Beginning with the 2009/2010 fiscal year the deadline to appeal is June 30th. So for the 2010/2011 fiscal year appeals must be filed by June 30, 2011. Prior to 2009/2010 the deadline to appeal was January 15th, so for the 2008/2009 fiscal year the appeal deadline was January 15, 2009.

The Assessor has 30 days to respond to your appeal.
If you disagree with the decision on your appeal you may contact the Assessor`s Office with additional information and/or appeal the decision to the Nevada Tax Commission as oulined in Nevada Revised Statute 361.4734(2).

You have 30 days after receiving notice of the Assessor`s decision to file an appeal with the Nevada Tax Commission.
Once we receive a claim form for an owner occupied primary residence we maintain the 3% cap on the property unless there is an ownership change, mailing address change, or if the owner notifies us of a status change. At that time we would send out another claim form for verification. We have to verify rents every year so you’ll continue to receive the rental forms.
An application must be completed and returned to the Assessor`s office. Call 775-328-2605 for information and to request the appropriate application.
Yes, Nevada offers tax exemptions to persons meeting certain requirements such as: Surviving Spouse, Veterans, Disabled Veterans, and Blind Persons. These exemptions can be applied to real property, personal property (mobile homes, etc.) or used to exempt all or part of your vehicle privilege tax. The tax dollar amount of the exemption varies.


Nevada also has special exclusions for pollution control, radioactive fallout shelters, renewable resource heating and cooling systems, and residential construction to remove architectural barriers for handicapped persons.
For an exemption to be used on real property, the application must be made and the real property exemption card signed on or before June 15, prior to the start of the new tax year. If the exemption is to be applied to personal property or a motor vehicle, the personal property exemption card may be signed any time on or before the date such taxes are due.
This exemption applies to surviving spouses who are residents of the State of Nevada and is in the amount of $1,000 assessed value. To receive this exemption a surviving spouse must bring a copy of the death certificate to the Assessor`s office when initially applying for the exemption, and sign an affidavit of bona fide residency*.

*NRS 361.015 "Bona fide resident" defined. "Bona fide resident" means a person who has:

1. Established a residence in the State of Nevada; and

2. Actually resided in this state for at least 6 months or has a valid driver`s license or identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles of this state.
The Blind Exemption is in the amount of $3,000 assessed value and is available to residents with visual acuity that does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye when corrected, or whose field of vision subtends an angle of 20 degrees or less. To qualify for this exemption, it is necessary to furnish a doctor`s statement that the above requirements are met and sign an affidavit of bona fide residency*.

*NRS 361.015 "Bona fide resident" defined. "Bona fide resident" means a person who has:

1. Established a residence in the State of Nevada; and

2. Actually resided in this state for at least 6 months or has a valid driver`s license or identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles of this state.
The Veteran`s exemption is applicable to an honorably discharged veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States who is a bona fide resident* of the State of Nevada and served a minimum of ninety (90) days of active duty. For information about active duty periods, please call our Public Service Division (775)328-2277.

When filing for the first time, it is necessary to bring in a copy of your separation papers showing dates of entry and discharge or release from active duty.

*NRS 361.015 "Bona fide resident" defined. "Bona fide resident" means a person who has:

1. Established a residence in the State of Nevada; and

2. Actually resided in this state for at least 6 months or has a valid driver`s license or identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles of this state.
The Disabled Veteran`s Exemption is provided for veterans who have a permanent service connection disability of at least 60%.

To qualify for this exemption, you must be a bona fide resident* of Nevada and furnish copies of your separation papers showing dates of entry and discharge and documentation of the percentage of service connected disability from the Veteran`s Administration. The surviving spouse of a disabled veteran who was eligible for this exemption at the time of his/her death may also be eligible to receive the benefits of this program.

*NRS 361.015 "Bona fide resident" defined. "Bona fide resident" means a person who has:

1. Established a residence in the State of Nevada; and

2. Actually resided in this state for at least 6 months or has a valid driver`s license or identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles of this state.
It is a tax according to value (ad valorem) levied on all property not permanently affixed to land, such as business equipment, building improvements, aircraft , agricultural equipment, possessory interests, billboards, etc. Click here for Personal Property Overview.
The personal property declaration requires you to report information on any taxable personal property owned, claimed, possessed, controlled or managed by the person, firm, corporation, association or company on July 1st of the current fiscal year. This information includes the location, the cost and year of acquisition of each item of taxable personal property, including any applicable shipping and installation charges and the cost of any improvements of the personal property, such as additions to or renovations of the property other than routine maintenance or repairs.

Items that are exempt from taxation include business inventory held for resale, consumable supplies (to be used within one year), livestock, boats and personal household belongings. The exemption of household goods does not extend to personal property or furnishings rented or leased to another party or rented in conjunction with the rental of a dwelling unit. Motor vehicles required to be registered with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety are exempt from the property tax, though subject to a governmental service tax.
No. Report the original acquisition costs, and year of acquisition. The Assessors office will apply depreciation according to a schedule supplied by the Nevada Department of Taxation.

No. On of July 1, 1998 the Nevada Administrative Code was changed to exclude sales tax in the determination of original costs for personal property declarations. (NAC 361.134)
Your original cost x cost index - depreciation = taxable value. The Nevada Department of Taxation provides the replacement cost and depreciation factors, used to determine the taxable values.

Taxable value is assessed at 35%. Taxable Value x .35 = Assessed Value.
Tax information is maintained by the Office of the Washoe County Treasurer

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Sales tax is a one-time tax, which is collected at the point of sale. Personal property tax is an annual tax, which is based on the current value of the property.
State statutes require every person, firm, corporation, association or company doing business in Nevada to report annually to the county where the personal property is located.
The declaration forms, supplied by the assessor, are sent out in late June of each year and are due back, by law, no later than July 31st. If a declaration is mailed to the taxpayer after July 15th it is due back within 15 days. The assessor may grant one or more 30 day extension`s on request.

An asset listing may be attached to your signed and completed declaration. The listing must be in the format prescribed by the Assessor. A listing of the personal property, including year of acquisition, description, cost and your business name and Identifier number, can be submitted as an Excel spreadsheet. If the Excel spreadsheet is used, include the Identifier number and Business Name as it appears on the personal property declaration.

When operating a business from your home, report all personal property used for business purposes.
Report used equipment in the same manner as other personal property. If you do not have a record of your acquisition cost, you may report an estimate of the cost to replace the item, in it`s present condition, in the current calendar year.
You will be required to furnish information regarding the name & address of the owner or lessor and a description of the equipment.
If equipment was home built, place a value on the equipment and report it along with other personal property.

Report all building improvements you have made in detail, including year of acquisition, description and cost. Our office will determine if they are taxable and also make sure they will not be taxed as both personal property and real property.
If you do not use any furniture, fixtures, equipment, etc. , please indicate this on the declaration. Continue to file a declaration every year you are in business and/or have a business license.

NRS 361.265 requires the Assessor to estimate the value of the personal property and issue a tax bill based on the estimated value.
Do not send payment with your declaration. Although a lien for the taxes attaches on July 1st, personal property bills are sent out between August and May of each fiscal year. Taxes are due on the "due" date on the personal property tax bill. In Washoe County the Treasurer`s Office collects the taxes.

There is no provision in the statues for proration. If you are in business on July 1st you are liable for the full tax amount.
If, in your opinion, the assessed value of your personal property shown on your bill is incorrect please feel free to contact the Assessor`s Office. If, after discussing the matter, a difference of opinion still exists, you may appeal your assessment to the County or State Board of Equalization. You may obtain the forms from the Assessor`s Office.

Yes. Please note on the declaration, or tax bill, e-mail or otherwise notify our office in writing of any changes at any time of the year. Please include your new physical location, mailing address or the approximate date the business terminated.
The role of the Assessor`s Office is to estimate property values. We do not collect taxes. But, by law, we must discover all taxable property in the County and appraise its value, then calculate 35% of that appraised value to determine its assessed value.

If your opinion of the value of your property differs from the Assessor`s, please contact our office and discuss the matter. We will be glad to answer your questions about the appraisal and explain how to appeal if we cannot come to an agreement.
Your tax rate is established in the spring of each year by the Nevada Tax Commission from budgets submitted by local governmental entities such as City of Reno, City of Sparks, Washoe County, Fire Protection Districts, School District and others. Services provided by those governmental bodies are a result of these budgets, and questions about governmental services should be directed to those agencies.
Taxes are collected by the County Treasurer based on tax bills sent out in July, and on some new construction, bills sent out in December of each year. All questions on taxes paid or to be paid should be directed to the Treasurer`s Office at 328-2510.
The Taxable Value of your land is the Assessor`s estimate of its full cash value, taking into account its location, zoning, actual use, etc. The Taxable Value of your buildings is their estimated replacement cost less depreciation. Your taxes will be based on your total assessed value, which is 35% of your total appraised value. For value information on your property assessment data please click here to access the parcel summary page.
They change when either your tax rate changes or your assessed value changes. Your assessed value can change because of a boundary change, new construction, a change in use, reappraisal or factoring.
  • Boundary changes occur when old parcels are either subdivided or combined.

  • New construction includes new buildings, additions, remodeling, etc.

  • Changes in use are, for example, a change from residential use to office or retail use.

  • Reappraisal or factoring is done to keep values up to date with changes in individual properties, local and neighborhood trends, and inflation or recession.
Annually. Each year, all properties will either be reappraised or their previous assessed value will be factored using factors established or approved by the Nevada Tax Commission
If your property has been removed, or severely damaged by a disaster such as a landslide, flood, etc. please contact the Assessor’s Office so that we can correct your assessed value.
When the tax roll is completed each November, value change notices are sent to all taxpayers. If you have a question, you may call the Assessor`s Office or come in and talk to an appraiser. If we are unable to resolve your concern you may appeal to the County Board of Equalization . If you are still not satisfied, you may appeal to the State Board of Equalization, and, thereafter, through the Court System. Any of theses bodies may adjust your assessed value. Appeals to the County Board of Equalization must be filed at the Assessor`s Office no later than January 15th.
The Treasurer`s Office maintains the mailing address information used by our office. The owner of a property can request a change of mailing address for your property taxes by:

Mail: Washoe County Treasurer P.O. Box 30039 Reno, NV 89520

Be sure to write legibly and include: your name, property address/parcel number, current mailing address, new mailing address, your signature.

Email: tax@washoecounty.us

Fax: (775) 328-2500

Use our online form
Your District is determined by your home address. To find out which district you reside in, go to the front page of the Washoe County Website and enter your address under "Property at a Glance". The "District Info" tab will tell you your Commission District. If you are still unsure, the County Registrar can help. Call 775.328.3670 to determine your district.
The Washoe County Dept. of Building and Safety is currently open Tuesday through Friday. We are currently closed on Mondays

Our hours are from 7:30 am to 12:00 pm and from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Please Note that any permits that require a monetary transaction must be completed by no later than 4:00 pm.
The purpose of a building permit is to control the quality of construction to help insure that Washoe County continues to be a safe, beautiful area in which we all can live, work and play. Also, the evidence of a building permit is often necessary to obtain financing from a lending agency and may be required to close a sale of your property to show that any improvements that have been made are in compliance. Fire and liability insurance damage may also not be paid in some cases where improvements have been made without a permit.
2006 International Building Code 2006 International Residential Code 2006 Uniform Plumbing Code 2006 Uniform Mechanical Code 2005 National Electrical Code 2006 International Existing Building Code 2006 International Energy Conservation Code
Permits shall not be required for the following:

1) Fences not over 30 inches in height. Repair or replacement of fences less than 100 linear feet long.

2) Oil derricks.

3) Movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches high.

4) Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or III-A liquids.

5) Patios, walks and driveways constructed of concrete or asphalt on grade without foundations and not over any basement or story below and not creating land coverage as defined by the TRPA.

6) Painting, papering tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work. Temporary (not to exceed 180 days) motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.

7) Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support of Group R-3, as applicable in section 101.2, and Group U occupancies. In the Incline Village area, window awnings also must not be visible from a TRPA defined scenic corridor.

8) Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy as applicable in section 101.2, which are less than 24 inches deep,does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18925 L) and are installed entirely above ground. In the Incline Village area, the pool must also not create land coverage as defined by TRPA.

9) Decks not exceeding 30 inches (762 mm) above grade, except decks at Incline Village. All decks at Incline Village require a building permit pursuant to Washoe County Code 110 and TRPA requirements.

10) Wire fencing for agricultural use on parcels larger than 1 acre when required set backs are maintained.

11) Siding applied over existing siding. One story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet and the location is within the setbacks defined in Washoe County Code 110 (Community Development Code) and does not house any utility equipment. In Incline Village area, the building must also not create land coverage as defined by the TRPA. Roofing repair if the roof is less than 100 square feet or still under its one year warranty.

12) Door and window replacement when the opening size and location remain the same.

13) Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18925 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.

Electrical:

1) Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

2) Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for power supply, the installation of towers and antennas.

3) Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

Gas:

1) Portable heating appliance.

2) Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.

Mechanical:

1) Portable heating applicance.

2) Portable ventilation equipment.

3) Portable cooling unit.

4) Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.

5) Replacement of any part which does not alter its approval or make it unsafe. Portable evaporative coolers.

6) Self-contained refrigerant system containing 10 pounds (4.5 kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.

Plumbing:

1) The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drain pipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.

2) The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do no involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

Notice: Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.

Your building permit is good for 18 months (a year and a half) from its date of issuance. And if you have not completed your project before the permits expiration date, you can renew your permit for an additional 18 months for a calculated fee. Please note that at least one inspection must occur within the originial 18 months for your permit to be eligable for renewal
Effective January 1, 2007, Washoe County Department of Building & Safety will no longer require/accept architectural committees to stamp plans for committee approval. All plans submitted for a building permit which have a construction valuation over $500.00 and are located within an area controlled by an “active, sanctioned” architectural committee, shall instead include a letter or written report from the architectural committee as stated by NRS 278.566.

The Washoe County Department of Building & Safety does not enforce applicable CC&R provisions for each subdivision, nor is the Department required under State Statutes. The intent of the policy change is to establish a method which ensures the architectural committee’s right of notification under State Statute and to give the committee additional time to take legal action to enforce their requirements.

The Washoe County Department of Building & Safety will continue our policy of encouraging applicants to submit first to their architectural committee for a letter or written report of approval. However, if the applicant insists on submitting plans, the Department will accept the plans and request, in writing and by certified mail, from the architectural committee a written report. If the Department does not receive a written report from the architectural committee within 20 calendar days from the date of receipt of the request, the Building Official will proceed as provided by law where there is no functioning committee. If the architectural committee’s letter or written report denies approval of the project, the committee will have an additional 30 calendar days to take legal action before an approved permit is issued. Only a court order filed with the Department can stop the process or issuance of the building permit.
Currently the Washoe County Department of Building & Safety accepts cash, check or credit card payments for plan check fees and permit fees. We currently are able to process ATM/Check Cards and Credit Cards. We accept Visa, Master Card and Discover Card and American Express cards at this time.

Please Note: If you are making the final permit issuance payment when picking up a new residence or commercial building or tenant improvement permit, you can only use the credit card/ATM card to pay for the Building Department portion of the fees. Payment for RTC, Parks Tax and Water Resources portion of the fees must be paid in cash or check.

This also applies to any and all TRPA payments that must be made either at time of submittal or issuance.
Anyone may apply for a building permit as long as any applicable plan check fees can be paid for.

Only the property owner may pick-up their permit if it was submitted as an owner/builder permit; however, if the owner wishes someone to act as their agent and pick-up their permit a "Act as Agent" form must be completed and signed by the owner and submitted to our office.

If a licensed Nevada contractor is listed on they permit, then the contractor of record must pick-up the permit. Licensed contractors must provide a list of approved agents to our Department prior to any agent being able to sign for a permit. This form can e found on our Applications, Forms & Handouts Page, EZ Permits Page and Office Page.
To get started, you need to fill out a volunteer profile. If there`s a specific position currently available that interests you, simply click the "Apply Online" button under that position`s description, and you will be taken to the volunteer profile page.

If you simply want to create a profile for future openings, click "Volunteer Profile" under the Citizen Involvement section of the County site.

Once you get to the profile page, you`ll be asked for a User ID and Password. If this is your first time, click "First time here? Sign up now...", located just below the "log in" button, to begin the process.
If this is your first time on the volunteer system, you don`t have log in information yet. Start the process by clicking "First time here? Sign up now...", located just below the "log in" button.

If you`ve registered with us previously, simply enter the User ID and Password you created when you first signed up. If you can`t remember them, click "Forgot your user name / password? Retrieve them now..." at the bottom of the green box.

Once you`ve successfully logged in, you will be able to update your information, and finish applying for a position if you selected one.
If you accessed the profile page by clicking the "Apply Now" button on a current opening, you should see a maroon button at the top of your profile page that says "I`m ready to apply". Click that to finish the process.

If you`ve set up a profile by clicking the "Volunteer Profile" link, you`re all done! You can see current openings by clicking "Boards and Commission Vacancies" or "Volunteer Opportunties" from the Citizen Involvement menu and apply for specific positions, or we will send out emails on a regular basis with opportunities that fit your interests.
Thank you for applying! Your profile is sent to the contact person(s) responsible for the selected opportunity. They will review your profile and make sure your passions, interests, and experience match with the position, and then contact you back.

In many instances, this is only the beginning of the process, and you may be asked for additional information, but this allows us to place you in the opportunities that fit you best.
Unfortunately, not all our opportunities can use the online process at the current time, though we are working to ensure that, as much as possible, these are all converted over. This is usually due to legal requirements. Please take a moment and follow the form`s instructions and apply for your chosen position.

When the business name does not contain the full name of the owner(s) of the business, or a corporation is doing business under a name different than the legal entity name, a fictitious firm name certificate is required by state law. Please refer to NRS 602.

The statute states a physical address must be used and prohibits the use of a public or private mailbox. We have provided space for an alternate mailing address.

Publishing is not required in Nevada. Our office does not submit any information to the newspapers regarding fictitious firm name certificates.

When filing this document, the Clerk’s office does not mail anything to your home. You will be notified of the expiration of your certificate at the five-year expiration period.

The certificate must be refiled with each change of legal ownership, change of residence address of any legal owner or at five years from the file date.

The certificate will expire five years from the file date.

The filing of this certificate does not prevent someone else from using the same business name. You can file a "Trade Name" with the Nevada Secretary of State. Please call (702) 486-2880.

You will need to contact the Nevada Department of Taxation, as well as the business license office(s) for their requirements. Any business that is regulated by a State agency must comply with those specific requirements as well.

A male and female person, at least 18 years of age, not nearer of kin than second cousins or cousins of the half blood, and not having a husband or wife living, may be joined in marriage. Both parties must appear at the Marriage License Bureau in either Reno or Incline Village.

Blood tests are not required in Nevada, and there is no waiting period.

IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
EFFECTIVE DECEMBER, 2011

NRS 122.040 (2): Before issuing a marriage license, the county clerk shall require each applicant to provide proof of the applicant's name and age.

NRS 122.050: The Marriage License must contain the name of each applicant as shown in the documents presented to prove name and age.

ACCEPTABLE AS PROOF OF AGE & NAME

The following original documents containing the applicant's photo are acceptable. The photo must be a sufficiently recent, clear likeness of the applicant.

  • Driver's License
  • Driver's Instruction Permit
  • ID Card issued by U.S. state or territory
  • Foreign government issued ID Card, including Driver's License (must include birth date)
  • Passport
  • Matricula Consular Card
  • Military ID Card issued by branch of U.S. Armed Forces
  • Military Dependent ID Card issued by branch of U.S. Armed Forces
  • Certificate of Citizenship issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
  • Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
  • Permanent Resident Card issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
  • Voter Identification Card (must contain birth date)

COMBINATIONS OF ACCEPTABLE PROOF OF AGE & NAME

An original or certified Birth Certificate AND

  • any secondary document that contains the name and photograph of the applicant, or
  • any document for which identification must be verified as a condition of receipt of the document, such as:
    • Gaming Sheriff's Work Card
    • Social Security Card
    • Voter Registration Card
    • Bank issued Debit Card
    • Employee ID Card/Badge
    • Membership Card from establishments requiring ID for membership (Costco, Sam's Club, etc.)

The County Clerk requires that foreign birth certificates be translated into English. The translation must state that it is a true and correct translation of the birth certificate. The translation must also state that the translator is a qualified translator and include the printed name of the translator. The document must be signed and notarized.

If the Marriage Bureau Clerk determines the applicant clearly appears over the age of 25 years, no proof of age is required. Proof of identity (name) is still required.

DOCUMENTS TO BE HANDLED ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS

  • Student Identification Card
  • Prison Identification Card
  • Any other document not otherwise mentioned in this policy
  • Temporary Driver's License or Permit (must not have language "Not Valid for ID Purposes")
  • Any other secondary document that contains the name and photograph of applicant;

EXAMPLES OF UNACCEPTABLE PROOF OF AGE & NAME

  • ID card issued by check cashing companies
  • Debit or Credit Cards (Accepted only if presented with original or certified copy of the birth certificate)
  • Membership cards from businesses or organizations that do not require ID for membership
  • ID card or document indicating "Not Valid for Identification Purposes"
  • Letters or Statements (which may or may not be notarized) stating that the person says he's the person known as "John Doe"
  • Documents that appear to be home-made or lack the appearance of being an official form of identification.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • If a parent giving consent to the marriage of a minor pursuant to subsection 5 of NRS 122.020 has a last name different from that of the minor seeking to be married, the county clerk shall accept, as proof that the parent is the legal parent of the minor, a certified copy of the birth certificate of the minor which shows the paren't first and middle name and which matches the first and middle name of the parent on any document listed in subsection 2 or NRS 122.020.
  • Court Orders presented for minors under the age of 16 require acceptable photo identification as listed above in addition to the Court Order
  • Hyphens may not be included in names unless they are on the identification presented

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Your Marriage License and Certificate will be prepared with your legal name exactly as it appears on the identification presented. It is your responsibility to present the proper identification to have your name reflected as you desire. For example, if you want your Marriage License and Certificate to reflect your full middle name, the identification you present must contain your full middle name - not an intial.

Errors discovered after the ceremony may be corrected upon written request to this office. Marriage records WILL NOT be changed after the ceremony to reflect names that are different from the names on the identification presented at the time the license was issued unless extenuating circumstances exist and proof of the correct name is provided. Corrections of marriage records will be approved on a case-by-case basis and will be subject to a fee. No fee will be charged for corrections due to clerical errors made by County Clerk staff.

You do not need to bring your divorce papers, however, if you have been divorced or your previous marriage has been annulled, the divorce or annulment must be final in the state where granted. You must know the year of the divorce or annulment and where the papers were filed.

Persons at least 16 years of age but less than 18 years or age may marry only if the person has the consent of:



  • Either parent; or
  • Such person`s legal guardian


Persons signing as legal guardians must furnish a certified court order showing proof of full legal guardianship to the satisfaction of the Clerk. If the parent or legal guardian cannot be present, a consent form, written in English, stating the name, birth date, age of the minor child, relationship of the person giving consent, and name of prospective spouse; acknowledged before a Notary Public will be accepted. The notary portion of the consent form must state that the parent or guardian "personally appeared before" or that the document was "subscribed and sworn to before" the notary. A facsimile of the consent will be accepted. When a legal guardian is signing and sending a facsimile, a copy of the court order for full guardianship must be attached to the notarized consent. Under the provisions of NRS 122.025, a person less than 16 years of age may marry if either parent or legal guardian files an action, pays all court fees as provided by law, and presents a court order from the Second Judicial District Court, County of Washoe, State of Nevada, authorizing the Clerk to issue a license.

To be legally married, a marriage ceremony must be performed by any person authorized to perform a marriage in the State of Nevada. Your options are:





One witness to the marriage ceremony is required by law. Chapel brochures are available in the courthouse hallway for your selection. You may also call the Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitor`s Authority at (800) FOR-RENO, (888) 367-7366. The Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce at (775) 337-3030. To be married at Lake Tahoe you may call the Incline Village/Crystal Bay Chamber of Commerce at (775) 831-4440.



A marriage license issued in the State of Nevada may be used anywhere within Nevada. If a Nevada license is used anywhere other than Nevada, the ceremony and the marriage are not legal. A marriage performed in Nevada with a Nevada license is a legal marriage.

You can request a copy of the Marriage Application online with your Visa or MasterCard. You are not requesting a license to be married. You must be present in our offices to request a Marriage License. By clicking the "online" link above, you will be taken to our secured server. If you do not feel comfortable submitting your request online, you may obtain a copy by mail from:



WASHOE COUNTY CLERK
P.O. BOX 30083
RENO, NV 89520-3083



When ordering a certified copy by mail, please remit $1.00 per page copy charge and $6.00 for the certification (most documents are one page in which case the fee would be $7.00 for a certified copy). You will be notified if there are additional pages.



Visa, MasterCard, Money Orders or Cashier Checks only, no personal checks. Please include the date of marriage and names of the bride and groom with your request. You may also call us at (775) 328-3274 as we do accept phone orders with a Visa or MasterCard credit card only.



You can obtain a true, legal certified copy of your marriage record (marriage certificate) from the Washoe County Recorder`s Office. You can download the request form and mail or fax it to the Recorder`s Office. The Recorder`s Office is located in the Washoe County Administration Complex, 1001 E 9th Street, Building A, Room 150. The hours of service are Monday through Friday, 8AM to 5PM. The fee per certified copy is $10.00. When requesting certified copies through the mail from the Recorder`s Office you will need to allow 10-15 working days for processing. The mailing address is WASHOE COUNTY RECORDER, PO BOX 11130, RENO, NV 89520-0027. It is Nevada State law that within 10 days after you have had a marriage ceremony performed, that the minister must deliver the original marriage certificate to the Washoe County Recorder`s Office for official recording. If you need a certified copy of your marriage certificate sooner than 10 days, check with the agency performing your ceremony, as they may be able to help expedite the processing of your certificate.

For road information visit http://www.nvroads.com.



Click here for a map of our Reno location.
Click here for a map of our Incline Location.
Click here for a map of our Commissioner of Civil Marriages location.

Social Security has passed new laws regarding name change requirements and you may be required to provide two documents to them evidencing your marriage in order to change your name. One of those documents is a copy of your Marriage License Application, which you can purchase when you purchase your marriage license in this office or wait and order it later if needed. The other is a copy of your Marriage Certificate, which will be recorded with the County Recorder.

Both parties must be present at the time their license is issued unless there are extenuating circumstances. Single signature licenses will only be issued with supervisor / management approval. If you feel you may qualify to be issued a single signature license, please contact our office prior to coming in so that we can discuss the specifics of your situation.

Citizen Advisory Boards (CABs) assist the Washoe County Commissioners with issues of concern in designated geographic areas. CABs serve two general purposes:

- They help the Commissioners become aware of the concerns of residents and property owners in their geographical areas, thus enabling the Commission to better address those issues in the best interest of the community and the County; and

- They provide a forum where citizens can be informed about and understand decisions made by the Commission that affect their community.
The first community CAB was the Incline Village CAB (later to be merged with the Crystal Bay CAB) which was established at the request of North Lake Tahoe residents in 1975, even before such boards were formalized by statute.

The Sun Valley CAB followed in 1978, and the Washoe Valley CAB (first established as a nonprofit corporation by Washoe Valley residents and later divided into two CABs: East Washoe Valley and West Washoe Valley) in 1979.

The Lemmon Valley and Gerlach/Empire CABs were added in 1980, and the Verdi Township CAB in 1981. In 1982, the North Valleys CAB (which incorporated the Lemmon Valley Board), and the Southwest Truckee Meadows CABs were established, followed by the Northeast Valleys CAB in late 1983 -- which was later divided into the Spanish Springs and Warms Springs CABs.

Subsequent boards were established for Mt. Rose/Geiger Grade (which was later divided into two separate boards -- Galena-Steamboat and Southeast Truckee Meadows), West Truckee Meadows, East Truckee Canyon, and Cold Springs.

In 2006, the Central CAB was formed. The Cold Springs CAB was dissolved in 2008 and the North Valleys CAB was modified to include the Cold Springs CAB area. In 2009, the Verdi Township CAB and the West Truckee Meadows CAB were dissolved and merged into the Verdi Township/West Truckee Meadows CAB, and the Central CAB was temporarily suspended.
Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 244.1945 authorizes the Washoe County Commission to establish advisory boards "for any purpose relating to the County about which the Board desires study or advice". Under this statute, the Commission has created a number of Citizen Advisory Boards (CABs) on countywide issues, as well as creating the system of community CABs.

Washoe County Code, Chapter 5.425 through 5.435, sets forth the specific guidelines for the establishment and operation of CABs. Among other matters, it requires that each CAB be individually established by a resolution of the Washoe County Commission.

These regulations are available from the Washoe County Department of Community Development. The regulations may also be viewed on the County`s website. To access the Citizen Advisory Board History, Legal Basis and Bylaws, click on this link.
Citizen Advisory Boards (CABs) are governed by a set of bylaws adopted by the Washoe County Commission. The bylaws enable each CAB to follow a standard set of operating procedures while providing enough latitude to allow the CAB to conduct its affairs and meetings in a fashion which encourages public participation.

CAB bylaws are available from the Washoe County Department of Community Development. The bylaws may also be viewed on the County`s website. To access the Citizen Advisory Board Bylaws, click on this link.
Citizen Advisory Boards are established by resolution. The Board of County Commissioners establishes a Citizen Advisory Board (CAB) in areas of the County where residents share similar problems and concerns, and where the community is distinct from other communities.
The volunteer boards generally meet six times a year, though one CAB meets monthly and one CAB meets 4 times a year. All CABs may also hold special meetings to discuss items or issues which are of immediate or pressing concern to the community.
The geographic area of responsibility for a CAB is established when the Washoe County Commission initially forms a new CAB. Changes to any CAB`s geographical area, if needed, are directed by the Washoe County Commission through a formal resolution.

Maps showing CAB geographic areas of responsibility are available from the Washoe County Department of Community Development. The maps may also be viewed on the County`s web site by searching for the "CAB Home Page" or typing "www.washoecounty.us/cab" in the address bar, and then selecting the link for "CAB Agendas, Minutes, Applications, Maps and Rosters". Maps can also be found by clicking on the "Citizen Advisory Board Maps" link in the left column.
Citizen Advisory Board (CAB) members must reside within the geographical area of responsibility for their CAB and be a registered voter (if eligible to vote) in Washoe County. On most CABs, the new member must also be a resident of unincorporated Washoe County. However, City of Reno residents are eligible for appointment to the Central CAB, North Valleys CAB, Southwest Truckee Meadows CAB, and the Verdi Township/West Truckee Meadows CAB. City of Sparks residents are eligible for appointment to the Spanish Springs CAB as regular members or as alternates. The voter registration requirement can be waived on a case-by-case basis by the Washoe County Commission. New members are required to attend new member orientation within six months of appointment.
Citizen Advisory Board (CAB) members are selected with the intent to provide representation from a broad cross-section of the CAB`s geographical area. The Washoe County Commission strives to ensure that all major viewpoints are examined, and that any faction or special interest group does not dominate a CAB.

Members are appointed by the Commissioners for staggered two-year terms beginning July 1 until June 30 two years hence. Unexpired vacancies are filled from the date of appointment until expiration of the unfilled term.

It is the general policy of the Commissioners that Citizen Advisory Board members be appointed for one two-year term to ensure the fullest participation by a broad range of citizens in a neighborhood. However, considerations of continuity may allow for reappointment of a member to a second or third (in special cases) consecutive term. If there are no other qualified applicants, a CAB member may serve a fourth consecutive term at the discretion of the Commission. A member may not serve more than four consecutive terms on a CAB.
Appointments are made from a list of applicants who have submitted applications within the past year. Generally, an advertisement for applicants is placed in the local newspapers at lease once a year, usually in February or March when the CAB Annual Recruitment effort begins. However, applications may be submitted anytime.

Applications are available from the Washoe County Department of Community Development. Applications for each specific Citizen Advisory Board are also available on the County’s web site by typing "www.washoecounty.us/cab" in the address bar to access the CAB Home Page, then selecting the link for "CAB Agendas, Minutes, Applications, Maps and Rosters", and then selecting the applicable CAB. Applications for all of the CABs can be found by clicking on the "CAB Applications" link in the left column of the CAB Home Page. To access information about the Citizen Advisory Board membership application packets, click on this link.

When a vacancy occurs on a CAB, current applications are submitted to the County Commissioner within whose district the CAB resides. The Commissioner reviews the applications and may interview the applicants. CAB members may make recommendations to the Commissioners concerning appointments. The Commissioner makes a recommendation on an appointment to the Washoe County Commission, but the Commission makes the final appointment.
Yes. There are several reasons why a CAB member might be removed from the board:

- New members are required to attend new member orientation training within six months of appointment. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in automatic removal.

- Three consecutive unexcused absences from CAB meetings will result in automatic removal from the CAB.

- If the conduct of a CAB member is deemed inappropriate, the Commissioner responsible for the CAB will speak to the individual and, if warranted, take steps to remove the individual from the CAB.
Yes, if there is an established (or soon to be established) agricultural use and the structure is a minimum of 100 feet from ANY property line. A certificate from you must be submitted with your building permit application attesting to one of the following:

1. That agricultural uses are currently on the property, together with a description of those uses, and verifying that the agricultural buildings will be used principally to store agricultural equipment and/or products related to the agricultural use; and/or

2. That livestock either currently lives on the property or will live on the property within 90 days from the final approval date for building permits issued for the agricultural building(s), and verifying that the principal use of the agricultural building(s) will be shelter for the livestock.
Maybe. If your property is 12,000 square feet in size or greater, you may apply for a special use permit (or on larger parcels, an administrative review) for a separate dwelling unit with certain size restrictions. In nearly all cases, you may be able to add an attached apartment up to 40% the size of the main dwelling.

For more information, see Division Three - Regulation of Uses, Article 306, Accessory Uses and Structures, of the Washoe County Development Code. To go to the Development Code home page, click here.
No. You must construct a primary dwelling in order to construct an accessory building. However, if you have a building permit for the home, you may then obtain a building permit for the shed or garage and build that structure first.
Maybe. This is dependent on your land use (zoning), the size of your property, the availability of community sewer and water, whether you have access to water rights, and a variety of other requirements. You will need to hire a professional land surveyor before you apply, but first, call our Development Information Counter at 775.328.6100 and talk to a planner who will help you determine if you can divide your property.

For more information, see Division Six - Subdivision Regulation, Article 606, Parcel Maps, of the Washoe County Development Code. To go to the Development Code home page, click here.
No, unless there is an established (or soon to be established) agricultural use and the structure is a minimum of 100 feet from ANY property line, in which case you may construct a second floor. In such cases, the use of the second floor is limited to the storage of feed, hay, agricultural tools or equipment, an office for the agricultural business, or other items related to the agricultural use of the property. Uses not allowed include recreation rooms, dens, bedrooms, kitchens, and hobby or craft workspace. The number of plumbing fixture units is limited to 2. Fixture units include sinks, toilets, showers or tubs.
Yes. However, you must have an issued building permit for the home and you must remove the trailer/mobile home within 18 months (or 36 months with an extension). A financial assurance for the removal of the unit is required.
Maybe. Depending upon your property and the CC&Rs recorded on your lot, you may be able to bring a factory built home onto your property. Both the age, size and standards of the construction of the unit are factors. In certain circumstances, a garage must be constructed prior to occupancy of the unit. Special requirements are listed in the Manufactured Home Checklist available on the Community Development website under "applications" or at the department's front counter.

Most residential areas in the County are limited to a 35-foot height standard. However, that may vary. In certain areas, the height is restricted to 2 stories and, in the Tahoe Basin, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency height is the standard, which may be significantly higher than 35 feet depending on topography.

A detached garage may be the same height as the home. However, a detached garage under 12 feet in height at the mid-point of the roof may qualify for a reduced setback. Call our Development Information Counter at 775.328.6100 and speak to a planner about the height standard for your area.
State law and Washoe County Code permits up to 6 unrelated persons and 2 caregivers to live in any home. So... aunt, cousins, grandparents, sons, daughter-in-laws, and extended families that are related are permitted. The relationships are limitless and the answer is extremely complex.
The number of plumbing fixture units is limited to 2. Fixture units include sinks, toilets, showers or tubs.
On interior lots, you can generally build a fence 4.5 feet in the front yard and 6 feet on the rest of the property. Corner lots are further restricted and the sight visibility triangle of the driveway and a corner is limited to 18 inches.
Yes. Regardless of the use of the structure, if it was legal when constructed, you can rebuild it within 12 months.

For more information, see Division Nine - General Provisions, Article 904, Nonconformance, of the Washoe County Development Code. To go to the Development Code home page, click here.
Each parcel has a land use designation (zoning), and the setbacks vary according to that designation. General setback information is defined by land use designation in Table 110.406.05.1, Standards, in the Development Code.

For more information, see Division Four - Development Standards, Article 406, Building Placement Standards, of the Washoe County Development Code. To go to the Development Code home page, click here.

However, there are many additional factors that come into play, such as if there are access easements on the lot, the shape of your lot, and the like. Call our Development Information Counter at 775.328.6100 and speak to a planner for specific setback information for your property.
The minimum standards for both parking and landscaping depend on the use of the building, the size of the building, and the developed portion of the lot. Parking and landscape requirements are defined in Division Four - Development Standards, of the Development Code. Refer to Article 410 - Parking and Loading, and Article 412, Landscaping.

To go to the Development Code home page, click here.
Each parcel has a land use designation that limits the uses on the property and the standards for development. These uses and standards are defined in the Development Code by land use designation. You may find your parcel`s land use designation by accessing Map Warehouse on the County`s website. Please keep in mind that the Map Warehouse provides land use (zoning) information for unincorporated Washoe County only. If your property is within the Cities of Reno or Sparks, you will need to contact either the Reno or Sparks Community Development Department to obtain your zoning information.

To get to Map Warehouse, click on this link and choose "Map Warehouse". When the disclaimer comes up, scroll down and click "I Agree". The "Main" tab should be active, if it isn`t, choose "Main". Choose "Land Use" from the list. Under "Step 1. I am interested in:", click the dropdown arrow next to "Select One" and choose "Washoe County Planned Land Use".

If you wish to search by the parcel number, under "Step 2. I would like to search by:", choose "Parcel Number". Under "Last Step. The parcel number without spaces or dashes is", type the parcel number without any spaces or dashes, then click on "Search!". Your parcel should be highlighted on the map.

If you wish to search by the address, under "Step 2. I would like to search by:", choose "Address". Under "Last Step. The address is", enter the Street Number and Street Name, and the Prefix (North, South, East, West) if there is one, then click on "Search!". Your parcel should be highlighted on the map.

If the "Data" tab is selected, there should be a table below the map display. If the "Data" tab is not selected, click on the "Data" tab to bring up the table.

The third column in the table is labeled "Planned Land Use". Your land use designation (zoning) will be identified in this column.

To determine what uses are allowed on your property, refer to the Table of Uses in Division Three, Article 302, Allowed Uses, of the Washoe County Development Code. To go to the Development Code home page, click here.
A Significant Hydrologic Resource is a creek or stream shown on an adopted SHR map in the Washoe County Development Code. The Washoe County Stream Advisory Committee was established by the Board of County Commission (BCC) and began meeting in January 1998. The idea originated with the Mr. Rose/Geiger Grade Citizen Advisory Board. (A Citizen Advisory Board is a neighborhood board with members appointed by the BCC to provide advice and recommendations on issues and proposals in the county.) The Stream Advisory Committee included members with technical expertise who were citizen, developer, water quality, wildlife and public health interest stakeholders.

By 1998, many of the streams in Washoe County were diverted and channeled to provide water for agriculture, without regard to stream structure and condition. Due to damage and deterioration of the stream environments, and the lack of consideration of the critical role streams play in preserving the quality of Washoe County`s natural environment, the Stream Advisory Committee believed it was important to maintain the natural vegetation along the streams to stabilize banks and maintain the ecological system. It was understood that confinement by concrete channeling or placement of rip rap prevents the natural processes that produce thriving plant and animal life.

After more than two years of work of the Stream Advisory Committee, Washoe County staff presented a proposed Development Code Amendment to the Washoe County Planning Commission and, subsequently, to the Board of County Commission. The proposed amendment was reviewed by Citizen Advisory Boards, developers, contractors and technical experts. Finally, on February 15, 2001, the amendment was adopted as Washoe County Code. The amendment provided protection of property from flooding, reduced land development impacts on stream water quality and flows, and provided wildlife mitigation corridors while, at the same time, scrutinized the implications to all parties including whether the ordinance was unfairly burdensome on the property owner or whether the ordinance eliminated all reasonable use of the property.
The 60,000 parcels in Washoe County are divided into 18 different zoning (land use designation) categories. You may find your parcel`s land use by accessing Map Warehouse on the County`s website. Please keep in mind that the Map Warehouse provides land use (zoning) information for unincorporated Washoe County only. If your property is within the Cities of Reno or Sparks, you will need to contact either the Reno or Sparks Community Development Department to obtain your zoning information.

To get to Map Warehouse, click on this link and choose "Map Warehouse". When the disclaimer comes up, scroll down and click "I Agree". The "Main" tab should be active, if it isn`t, choose "Main". Choose "Land Use" from the list. Under "Step 1. I am interested in:", click the dropdown arrow next to "Select One" and choose "Washoe County Planned Land Use".

If you wish to search by the parcel number, under "Step 2. I would like to search by:", choose "Parcel Number". Under "Last Step. The parcel number without spaces or dashes is", type the parcel number without any spaces or dashes, then click on "Search!". Your parcel should be highlighted on the map.

If you wish to search by the address, under "Step 2. I would like to search by:", choose "Address". Under "Last Step. The address is", enter the Street Number and Street Name, and the Prefix (North, South, East, West) if there is one, then click on "Search!". Your parcel should be highlighted on the map.

If the "Data" tab is selected, there should be a table below the map display. If the "Data" tab is not selected, click on the "Data" tab to bring up the table.

The third column in the table is labeled "Planned Land Use". Your land use designation (zoning) will be identified in this column.
Each of the 18 land use designations and the size of your property are factors in determining the kind and number of animals you can keep on your prperty. Refer to Division Three - Regulation of Uses, Article 330, Domestic Pets and Livestock, of the Development Code.

To go to the Development Code home page, click here.
A Trailer (TR) Overlay zone represents the pre-1993 zoning of Washoe County which permitted the setup and subsequent use of a mobile home (pre-1974) or a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) manufactured home (post-1973) as a single family residence. Any area that had a trailer overlay continues to permit mobile/manufactured homes.
For properties zoned for single family residences "outside Trailer (TR) Overlay zoned areas", the following limitations apply: -The unit must be a manufactured house constructed to the HUD standards. -The unit must be a minimum 1,200 square feet in size. -The unit must have multiple sections. -The unit must be no more than 5 years old at time of placement (placement is defined as date of issuance of site inspection permit). -There may not be Covenants, Conditions or Restrictions (CC&Rs) on the property that restrict manufactured homes. -The home must be converted to real property.

For properties zoned "within Trailer (TR) Overlay zoned area", the following limitations apply: -The unit may be a manufactured house or a mobile home (a unit constructed to neither the UBC nor HUD code, but not a travel trailer). -The unit may be of any size. -The unit can be one section or multiple sections. -The unit can be of any age. -A mobile home may only be placed on a parcel that had a previous manufactured house or mobile home located on the parcel within the previous 12 months.

For properties within the Sun Valley and High Desert planning areas, the following limitations apply: -The unit may be a manufactured house or a mobile home (a unit constructed to neither the UBC nor HUD code nor a travel trailer). -The unit may be of any size. -The unit can be one section or multiple sections. -The unit can be of any age. -Other than required yard setbacks, there is no restriction on the location of a unit in a single family residential zone.
The State of Nevada Manufactured Housing Division (775.687.4296) regulates foundation requirements. In addition, county code and state law requires a permanent foundation and subsequently a designation as real property with the Washoe County Assessor`s Office.
The supports must be masked by skirting and/or a perimeter foundation, which must be installed 30 days after the final inspection occurs. The hitch and wheels must be removed and placed out of sight by the time final inspection occurs.
The placement of the unit may not violate Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs); Deed Restrictions; or Negative Covenants that prohibit the placement of the manufactured house within the subdivision within which it is proposed to be located (Washoe County will require an affidavit affirming this at the time of submittal of a setup permit application).
County parking standards must be met. A garage for at least 1 vehicle must be constructed. In areas with a previous Trailer (TR) Overlay, the covered parking space may be a carport if there was a mobile/manufactured home on the property within the last 12 months. In Sun Valley and High Desert, neither a garage nor a carport is required.
No. The final inspection for the home cannot take place prior to the construction of the garage or carport.
Washoe County may issue a permit for a manufactured house that is less than 1,200 square feet in size if any one of the following occurs: -51% of the existing housing within 300 feet of the property boundaries of the property on which the manufactured house will be placed are less than 1,200 square feet in size; -The placement of a 1,200 square foot unit would violate the setbacks for the property on which the manufactured house will be placed; or -The size of the lot on which the manufactured house will be placed is 10 acres or greater in size.

No other provisions may be waived without a variance application reviewed and approved by the Washoe County Board of Adjustment.
A variance application reviewed and approved by the Washoe County Board of Adjustment can vary these provisions.
An Affidavit of Conversion of Mobile Home to Real Property must be completed by the property owner and seller of the unit. The property owner then submits the affidavit and two copies to the Washoe County Recorder`s Office for recordation. As part of this recordation process, two conforming copies of the Conversion Affidavit will be returned to the property owner. The property owner then submits both conforming copies to the Nevada Division of Manufactured Housing with a check for $20. The Nevada Division of Manufactured Housing will issue a conversion certificate and forward it to the Washoe County Assessor`s Office. Upon receipt of the certificate, the Assessor`s Office will commence assessing the manufactured house as real property.
Article 312 (Fabricated Housing) of the Washoe County Development Code contains the specific provisions regulating the location of manufactured housing and mobile homes. Article 314 (Manufactured Home Parks) of the Washoe County Development contains the regulations governing mobile home parks (rental spaces). Articles 312 and 314 are contained within Division Three of the Washoe County Development Code.

To get to the Washoe County Development Code home page, click on this link. Choose "division three - regulation of uses", then click on the bookmark for the article you wish to view.
Washoe County permits a manufactured house that is 5 years or less in age to be used as a detached accessory dwelling unit and if it is not prohibited by the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) on the property and provided that it meets the standards enumerated in Article 306 (Accessory Uses and Structures) of the Washoe County Development Code.

To get to the Washoe County Development Code home page, click on this link. Choose "division three - regulation of uses", then click on the bookmark for Article 306.

A detached accessory dwelling unit must be 1,200 square feet in size. In all situations, accessory dwelling units cannot exceed 50 percent of the size of the main dwelling (no variance is permitted to this standard). Therefore, the main dwelling unit must be a minimum of 2,400 square feet. A detached accessory dwelling unit must be established behind or to the side of the main dwelling. A detached accessory dwelling unit must not encroach within required setbacks. Additional enclosed parking is required for the detached accessory dwelling unit. No subdivision of land to create a separate parcel for the accessory detached dwelling unit is permitted. A manufactured house used as a detached accessory dwelling unit must be permanently attached to the property, have the supports masked and be converted to real property.
The Washoe County Development Code is comprised of the following nine divisions:

Division One - Introduction and Organization Division Two - Area Plan Regulations Division Three - Regulation of Uses Division Four - Development Standards Division Five - Signs Division Six - Subdivision Regulations Division Seven - Infrastructure Availability and Financing Division Eight - Procedures Division Nine - General Provisions

The Development Code also includes a compilation of current interpretations and an index. The frontpiece contains a summary of both the adoption and revision dates for the Development Code, including the bill and ordinance numbers with a brief summary of each revision. The frontpiece also contains a numerical contents by division and article.
The Washoe County Development Code is contained within the Washoe County Code as Chapter 110. The Development Code, together with related information and applications necessary for development, is available from the Washoe County Department of Community Development.

For questions regarding the Development Code, contact the Community Development Planning Counter at 775.328.6100.

For information on other chapters of the Washoe County Code, including the most recent ordinances, please contact the Office of the County Clerk at 775.328.3084.
The Washoe County Master Plan, as required by state statute, includes countywide elements, area plans, and a number of more detailed plans (e.g. specific plans, community plans, joint plan). The Master Plan is used to determine the most desirable location of each type of development. The plan has policies and maps designated to define development suitability and conserve natural resources (e.g. protect critical environmental areas, define water resources, enhance visual and scenic corridors, etc.). It also includes growth forecasts as well as policies and maps reflecting desires related to land uses and transportation. Finally, the Master Plan has standards and maps to guide provision of public services and facilities. The public services and facilities are implemented through the Capital Improvements Program.

The Master Plan is contained in three volumes. Volume One contains elements that have general applicability throughout the County. Volume Two contains area plans covering each of the County planning areas. Volume Three contains the specific plans, community plans and joint plans contained within the various planning areas.

The Department of Community Development is responsible for maintaining and updating the Master Plan in response to changing conditions, legislative direction and new policy direction established by the community.

For questions regarding the Master Plan, contact the Community Development Planning Counter at 775.328.6100.
If you receive a subpoena you are legally bound to appear. If you have a conflict with the date or time of the subpoena, please contact our office at 775-328-3210.
Any person failing to appear may be held in contempt of court according to NRS 22.100. The penalty for contempt of court is a fine up to $500 and/or 25 days imprisonment.
There is child monitoring available right here at the District Attorney`s office if you have been subpoenaed by the STATE. If you require this service, please call our office at least 1 day before court to schedule.
Please contact our office. No person or employer can stop a subpoenaed witness from appearing for court per NRS 199.230.
No. Once charges are filed it is now in the State`s hands to prosecute.
If you are subpoenaed for a preliminary hearing or District Court trial you will be reimbursed for mileage. If you are required to stay overnight we will provide hotel accomodations and a food per diem. (NRS 50.225)
$25 for every appearance per NRS 50.225.
All checks that are not picked up will be mailed to the address that is on file for you.
Every case is different but generally it can take up to 4 weeks for the District Attorney`s office to review police reports.
Every case is different. If you have concerns, please call our office to speak with the advocate assigned to the case.
GIS Website Help: 328-3627

GIS Data Purchases: 328-2032

GIS Program Info: 328-3619
Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Visit the Assessor's Office Real Property Search page.
Your computer must be set up to allow file copying from an FTP site. If you continue to experience problems with downloading the data files, please contact us and we will help get you the data in some other way.
Turn pop-up ad blocking software to OFF, including the setting in your browser.
1001 E. Ninth Street Building A, Room 2275 Reno, NV 89512
Nevada Revised Statues allow for county governments to recoup some of the acquisition and maintenance costs associated with spatial data. We charge only for data that is acquired through the Regional Basemap Committee, including parcel boundaries, contours and aerial photography.
Please go to http://www.washoecounty.us/gis/datawarehouse.htm for data sales and download information. Or call (775) 328 - 2032 for more information.
Quick Map is an easy-to-use, interactive mapping application that offers the user the ability to toggle on and off high-resolution photography of the local area.

Go to http://wcgisweb.washoecounty.us/QuickMap/
Use the Quick Map application to download a free copy of the assessor map of your property. Quick Map is an interactive application that allows the user to toggle on and off high-resolution photography. Once you`ve located your property, turn on the photos, then click the printer icon to print a hard copy of the information you see on the computer screen.

Go to http://wcgisweb.washoecounty.us/QuickMap/
The GIS Division does not make custom made maps for the public. Most property information you`d need for a map can be found in the Map Warehouse, which when put together can be downloaded for free.
Contour elevation data can be overlaid on a photo of your property using tools in the Map Warehouse. The resulting map can be downloaded for free.

Go to http://wcgisweb.washoecounty.us/website/Map%5fWarehouse/viewer.htm
Generally we update our photography every other year.
Condoms are not 100% effective at preventing HIV transmission. When used correctly and consistently, condoms are highly effective and reliable in reducing the risk of transmitting HIV and most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Condoms should be used EVERY TIME during sex when transmission of HIV (or other STDs) is possible. When condoms fail to work properly, it is most often because of improper and/or inconsistent use.

Condoms may not work as well against STDs spread through skin-to-skin touching, like herpes and genital warts, because condoms may not cover the infected areas.

Following these basic rules will reduce the already small chance of condom failure: - Experiment with different condoms and practice putting them on before intercourse. - Practice talking with your partner about your desire and intention to use condoms. - Use latex (rubber) or polyurethane (plastic) condoms. Avoid "natural skin" condoms, which have tiny holes, which may allow HIV and other STDs to be transmitted. - When using a male condom choose one that fits. Male condoms come in different sizes, shapes, and styles, but most condoms will fit most men. - Another choice is the Reality condom, which is made of polyurethane and is designed to fit inside the woman`s vagina for vaginal sex, and the anus for anal sex. Use the directions from the manufacturer that come with Reality condoms. - Open and handle condoms carefully. Never use a condom that is in a damaged package or is past its expiration date. Condoms should be stored loosely in a cool, dry place (not in your wallet or the glove compartment of your car) and kept where you can easily get them if you decide to have sex. - To reduce friction that can cause breakage, use plenty of water-based lubricant on the outside of the male latex condom and a small amount on the inside at the tip. With the Reality condom use plenty of lubricant on both the inside and outside. Some condoms come with lubricant, but often there is not enough, so additional lubricant is recommended. Never use oil-based lubricants like Vaseline, hand cream, Crisco, or mineral oil with latex condoms. Oil-based lubricants can rapidly break down latex and allow the virus to pass through. Water-based lubricants include K-Y Jelly, Slippery stuff, ForPlay, Astroglide, ID Lubricants and most contraceptive jellies. These can be found in grocery or drug stores next to the condoms. WARNING: Some lubricants contain nonoxynol 9, which can cause irritation. This irritation may increase the risk of HIV transmission. We do NOT advise the use of nonoxynol 9 or products containing it for STD and HIV prevention!

- The male condom should be put on after erection and before any sexual touch. Remember that pre-cum is also infected with HIV. The Reality condom should go in before sex - it can be inserted up to 8 hours before use. Never use the Reality and the male condoms together or two male condoms at the same time. - Some male condoms have a reservoir tip; some don`t. In either case, the tip of the condom should be squeezed while rolling it down onto the penis in order to leave an airless pocket to collect semen. If the penis is natural and has a foreskin, try pulling back the foreskin before unrolling the condom all the way down to the base of the penis. Some men don`t like to pull back the foreskin because they`ve found that the condom slides off when the foreskin is pulled back. If you have trouble with this, consider keeping the foreskin down before putting on the condom or try using a Reality condom with your partner. - After intercourse, withdraw the penis while still erect, holding the base of the condom to prevent it from slipping off or spilling semen. Remove the condom and wash the penis with soap and water. - Use a condom only once and dispose of it in the garbage; do not flush condoms down the toilet. Never reuse a condom. - Use a condom EVERY TIME during sex when transmission or acquisition of HIV is possible.
Casual Contact. HIV is a fragile virus outside the body. It quickly becomes inactive when exposed to air, soap and common disinfectants such as bleach.

There is no risk of getting HIV from: donating blood mosquito bites toilet seats shaking hands hugging sharing eating utensils or drinking containers food or objects handled by people with HIV or AIDS spending time in the same house, business or public place with people who have HIV or AIDS
The best way to avoid HIV infection (and other blood-borne infections like hepatitis B and C) from injection drug use is to stop injecting drugs. Drug treatment can help. If treatment is not available or you cannot quit on your own, use a brand new sterile syringe and needle every time you inject or divide drugs. Do not share drug using "works" with anyone else. This includes needles, syringes, cookers, cottons, mixing and bleaching water, and all other supplies. If you do not have new clean equipment, thoroughly disinfect all drug use tools with bleach before re-use. It is also important to dispose of used works safely. Discarding needles in the trash, on the street, or flushing them down the toilet is dangerous.

Drug use (including use of alcohol) can impair judgment and decision-making. This can increase risk for HIV, especially if you have sex while high. High or not, you can successfully use condoms and clean injection works. Plan ahead, carry condoms and stick to your prevention plan. *A person does not need a prescription to purchase syringes in Nevada. However, a pharmacist may refuse to sell to people based on their own judgment.
The only way to completely avoid the sexual transmission of HIV is to abstain from anal, oral and vaginal sexual. If you choose to have sex, it is safest when you practice monogamy with an uninfected partner. Monogamy is when two people have sex only with each other. For those with a new sex partner, both can abstain from sex, or use condoms every time during anal, vaginal and oral sex for at least 3 months and then get tested for HIV and other STDs. At that time, if both partners are HIV negative AND both partners are completely avoiding other risk behaviors (e.g., sharing needles or having other sex partners), then unprotected sex with each other is not a risk for HIV transmission. For someone with an HIV positive partner or a partner who does not know his/her HIV status or multiple sexual partners, touching, dry kissing, body rubbing, and mutual masturbation are the safest sexual activities. However, simple, skin-to-skin touching can spread other STDs. For any penetrative sex acts such as vaginal, anal or oral sex, condoms are highly effective at reducing the risk of HIV transmission when used consistently and correctly - every time, from beginning to end of each sex act. For more information on condom use see the answer to the question, "Do condoms provide 100% protection from HIV?"
Not at this time. Medical providers have become much better at identifying, monitoring, and treating HIV infection and AIDS. In 1995, a new class of drugs known as protease inhibitors became available. These new medications, used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs, have dramatically improved the health and quality of life for many people living with HIV/AIDS. While there is not currently a cure or vaccine for HIV/AIDS, there are many things that people living with HIV/AIDS can do to remain healthy and to live longer. The first step for anyone who has HIV infection is to see a knowledgeable, experienced medical provider. This provider will be able to assess and monitor the infection, and, if appropriate, prescribe antiretroviral drugs. People at increased risk for HIV infection need to be tested for HIV antibodies every 3-6 months. This way they can seek medical care at the earliest possible opportunity if they become infected with HIV. Early detection can also reduce the chance of HIV transmission when people are most infectious. Although medical care and drugs are expensive, programs exist to ensure that people with HIV infection and AIDS can get the treatment and care they need.
Members of the community that access HIV and STD testing at the WCDHD are charged on a sliding fee scale, based on income. Charges are based on how much time is spent with the provider and what testing is done.
Between 50-90% of people with new HIV infections have mild to severe "flu-like" symptoms 2 weeks to 3 months from the time of HIV exposure. Others do not have any symptoms. In general, symptoms are not a reliable way to tell if someone has been infected with HIV; the only way to know for sure is to get tested. Many of the symptoms of early HIV infection are the same as for other, less serious illnesses. People who may have been exposed to HIV should see a doctor promptly if the following symptoms occur within 3 months of the exposure: - A persistent fever of over 101 degrees that lasts more than 2 days without a known cause - Constant tiredness - Night sweats that soak your pajamas or sheets - A persistent rash of unknown cause - Persistent swollen glands (lumps under the skin) which occur in several places at once (especially the neck, armpits and groin) - Sore throat
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a medical condition resulting from HIV infection, usually after many years. By the time a person is given an AIDS diagnosis by a doctor, HIV has seriously damaged the body`s immune system. There are effective treatments to prevent, as well as treat, these serious illnesses.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV kills specific white blood cells (T cells), which are an important part of our immune systems. Without treatment, HIV gradually destroys the body`s defenses against disease (it takes an average of 8-10 years), leaving it vulnerable to many infections and cancers. But treatment with antiretroviral drugs can slow or stop the harmful effects of retroviruses like HIV, so that many people with HIV are living longer, healthier lives.
It can take up to 3 months after HIV infection for enough antibodies to develop, therefore a negative test result is reliable only if the person has not had any sexual or needle-sharing risk behavior (or other exposure to infectious body fluids) during the 3 months prior to testing. Some people with recent risk behavior will test HIV antibody negative, yet may have actually been infected during the previous 3 months. Every exposure pushes the window period out another months.
There are several types of HIV antibody tests used today. All are highly accurate at detecting HIV antibodies (HIV antibodies are specific proteins made in response to an HIV infection). After infection with HIV, however, it can take up to 3 months for enough HIV antibodies to develop to be detected by the test.

A negative HIV antibody test result means that a person does not have detectable HIV antibodies at the time of the test. Since it can take up to 3 months after HIV infection for enough antibodies to develop, a negative test result is reliable only if the person has not had any sexual or needle-sharing risk behavior (or other exposure to infectious body fluids) during the 3 months prior to testing. Some people with recent risk behavior will test HIV antibody negative, yet may have actually been infected during the previous 3 months. These people will be highly contagious and may easily transmit HIV to their sex and needle-sharing partners. A high proportion of HIV transmission may occur when people are unaware of their infection. Finally, a negative test result does not mean that a person is safe from future HIV infection. People who test HIV antibody negative are urged to continue to follow HIV prevention guidelines to avoid becoming infected. People who continue risk behaviors are advised to re-test at least every 6 months.

A positive HIV antibody test result means that HIV antibodies are present because the virus is present - the person is infected with HIV (with the exception of newborn babies who are born with their mothers` antibodies). A positive test does not mean the person has AIDS, although many HIV-positive people may develop AIDS in the future. Anyone who tests HIV-positive can transmit the virus to others, regardless of how long they have been infected, whether they have AIDS or other symptoms, or whether their HIV infection is being treated with antiretroviral drugs. It is extremely important that HIV-positive people follow HIV prevention guidelines, not only to protect their partners from getting HIV infection, but also to protect themselves from other germs that could cause HIV/AIDS-related disease. People at increased risk of HIV infection should NEVER donate blood, plasma, or other organs, or go to such facilities to be tested.
HIV testing is available from a variety of resources in the community:
  • Private health care provider
  • A Rainbow Place - 789-1780
  • Nevada AIDS Foundation - 329-2437
  • Nevada Hispanic Services - 826-1818
  • Planned Parenthood Mar Monte - 688-5560
  • HOPES - 348-1301
Anyone can get HIV if they have unprotected sex or share injection drug equipment with someone who is infected. The virus does not discriminate - it can infect males or females, babies, teens, adults or senior citizens. You cannot look at someone and know they have HIV. In fact, as many as 1 out of 3 people who have HIV (33%) have no idea they are infected.
To reach those at higher risk for HIV infection and utilize the resources of the WCDHD the following populations are tested at the WCDHD:

- men who have sex with men - injecting drug users - partners of men who have sex with men - partners of injecting drug users - those who present with an opportunistic infection - contacts (partners) of HIV positive individuals - victims of sexual assault

Everyone is eligible and encouraged to seek education and information regarding HIV and STDs. Educational services are offered free of charge.
Normally, a business which emits 2 pounds or more per day of “criteria” air pollutants or 1 pound per day or more of “toxic” air pollutants will require a permit to operate. Different types of air pollution control devices are also required for different processes depending upon the size of the operation for compliance with the AQMD regulations. Applications may be obtained by downloading from the District Health Department Web site. For further information, please contact one of our environmental engineers at 784-7200 for help with the necessary information for application submittal.
Just call 784-7200 (24 hours per day) and your complaint will be logged onto an official AQMD complaint form. After that, within "normal" hours of operation, an air quality specialist will investigate your concerns and determine if there is a violation of the AQMD regulations. If a violation exists, the person or business will be required to correct the problem. A Notice of Violation may also be issued.
The local asbestos regulations essentially mirrors the federal requirements. If you own a commercial building and want to do some remodeling, an asbestos survey will need to be completed by a certified consultant to determine the presence or absence of any asbestos materials. If present, a certified abatement contractor will need to remove the asbestos before the project can proceed. In addition, the property owner will need to obtain an “asbestos acknowledgment” form from the AQMD prior to obtaining a building permit from the local building departments. For further information, please call 784-7200.
The Air Pollution Control Hearing Board (APCHB) is a fair and unbiased panel that hears appeals when a negotiated resolution cannot be achieved. The APCHB meets the first Tuesday of every month (as needed).
Wood stoves and fireplaces are regulated by the Washoe County District Health Department because they are major contributors to air pollution in the Truckee Meadows. Therefore before you make a purchase, it is important for you to spend some time researching whether it is legal to put a wood burning appliance in your home. To determine if you can install a wood burning stove or fireplace in your home, you need the following information, then call (775) 784-7200 (AQMD).

* What is your zip code? * What is your land-use zoning? * What is the net size of your property?
Bacteria (singular: bacterium) are one-celled organisms visible only through a microscope. There are many types of bacteria, only some of which cause disease. Most are harmless and even some are helpful (“good” bacteria), by aiding digestion or breaking down rotting material. Bacteria are found almost everywhere.
An antibiotic is a powerful medication designed to kill bacteria or stop them from growing, such as an illness caused by strep throat. They cannot cure illnesses caused by viruses, such as a cold or the flu. Different antibiotics may be used for different types of bacterial infections. Your health care provider will determine what infection you have and if an antibiotic is appropriate to treat it.
Antibiotics either inhibit the growth of bacteria (bacteriostatic) or actually kill the bacteria (bacteriocidal). By stopping the growth of bacteria, it gives the body time to mount an immune response and allows the body to eliminate the bacteria. Drugs that kill the bacteria are the preferred choice when someone has a weakened immune system and whose body cannot destroy the bacteria on its own. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses.
Unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful. Antibiotics only fight bacterial infections. They do nothing to help viral illnesses like colds or influenza (flu). If you take an antibiotic when it is not necessary, such as for a cold, you increase the risk of developing an infection caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Antibiotics also destroy “good” bacteria in your body.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when an antibiotic has lost its ability to effectively control or kill bacterial growth. These bacteria are considered to be “resistant” to an antibiotic. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics are the main reason for antibiotic resistance.
Some bacteria are naturally resistant to certain types of antibiotics. Bacteria can also become resistant by a genetic mutation or by acquiring resistance from another bacterium. Because bacteria can collect multiple resistance traits over time, they can become resistant to many different families of antibiotics, which allows the resistant bacteria to continue to live/and multiply even in the presence of antibiotic treatment.
No, this is a common misconception. People may exhibit allergic reactions to antibiotics, but they are not resistant to them. It is the bacteria, not the person, which become resistant.
There are three ways in which you can get an antibiotic-resistant infection:

* You can develop antibiotic-resistant infections when you take an antibiotic. The bacteria could figure out how to outsmart the antibiotic and stay alive. In that case, you can transmit these resistant bacteria to others and they too may become ill * You can catch antibiotic resistant-infections from people or objects around you that are infected with resistant bacteria. Not properly washing hands can increase your risk of catching all kinds of infections. * You can develop an antibiotic-resistant infection when the bacteria inside your body change; it mutates or acquires genes that allow them to resist antibiotic treatment.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria can also develop in pigs, chickens, cattle and other farm animals, which are exposed to low doses of antibiotics in their daily feed. These resistant bacteria can then spread to humans, causing antibiotic-resistant infections. Guidelines are being developed to address this concern.
No. The common cold and the “flu” (influenza) are caused by viruses, not by bacteria.. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. Normal cold symptoms include sore throat, fever, cough, and/or a runny nose. A runny nose often starts out with clear drainage and then turns to a green or yellow color. This is a good sign that the body is fighting the virus. If your runny nose is not getting better after 10-14 days, please talk to your healthcare provider.
No. Viruses cause most bronchitis.
No. Viruses cause most sore throats. Only strep throat needs an antibiotic; it is caused by strep A bacteria.
Sometimes. Viruses and bacteria can cause ear infections. Your doctor may wait to see if the ear infection improves by itself before deciding to give antibiotics.
Sometimes. Bacteria or viruses cause sinus infections. Antibiotics are needed for bacterial sinus infections. A bacterial sinus infection may be present if cold symptoms do not improve after 10-14 days.
It is very important to have your body help itself. Get plenty of sleep, drink lots of fluids and eat healthy foods. Help decrease the symptoms by using a vaporizer or use over-the-counter medicines like saline nose drops, gargles or throat lozenges. Viral infections simply take time to get better.
For household use, antibacterial products are no better than ordinary soap for preventing infections. Hand washing for 15 seconds with ordinary soap and water will reduce the risk of most common infections and does not add to antibiotic resistance.
Yes. It is becoming a major public health concern. Each time you take an antibiotic unnecessarily or improperly, you increase your chance of developing drug-resistant bacteria. We could run out of ways to kill disease-causing bacteria.

You don't know who is carrying anti-biotic resistant bacteria and they may pass that resistant bacteria on to you and make you ill. This could mean stronger, more expensive antibiotics, hospitalization and, sometimes, death.
Reduce the need for antibiotics.
  • Wash your hands! Wash your hands! And, wash your hands! By washing your hands often and thoroughly with plain soap and water, you are helping to prevent disease and, therefore, the need for antibiotics.
  • Prevent food borne illnesses by properly refrigerating perishable foods, thoroughly cooking all food from animal sources, and avoiding cross-contamination of other foods.
  • Consider pets, even if not ill, as potential sources of infection.
  • Dispose of feces, urine, diapers and contaminated articles properly.


Also, you should take antibiotics only when necessary. Don't insist on an antibiotic when your doctor says, "no". Never take an antibiotic for a viral infection such as cold, cough, or flu. Take an antibiotic exactly as the doctor prescribes. And take the antibiotic until it is gone, even if you are feeling better. Never save the medication to treat yourself or others later.
If you are a qualified applicant, you can complete an application form and mail it along with a copy of your valid photo identification and a check or money order, payable to Washoe County Health District, or you can appear in person at the office which is located in the Washoe County Health District, 1001 E. Ninth Street, Reno, Building B, first floor, Birth and Death Records. Our hours are listed on the Vital Statistics Program page.
Birth and death certificates are confidential in the State of Nevada and may only be released to a qualified applicant. A qualified applicant is defined as the registrant, or a direct family member by blood or marriage, his or her guardian (Must provide certified original court order appointing guardianship.), or his or her legal representative. For more information, refer to NRS 440.650 and NAC 440.070.
The Vital Statistics Office provides certified copies of Washoe County birth and death certificates either at the office or by mail. Fees for certified copies are set by statute and are $20.00 per certified copy for birth certificates and death certificates.
The office is located in the Washoe County Health District, 1001 E. Ninth Street, Reno, Building B, first floor, Birth & Death Records. Our hours are listed on the Vital Statistics Program page. For more information call (775) 328-2456.
Our hours are listed on the Vital Statistics Program page.
If there is no father listed on a child’s birth certificate, the name of the legal father can be added by making this request on a Declaration of Paternity form. This form contains detailed information about this process, although the following bullet points emphasize some of the most important items:
  • This procedure applies only to children born in Nevada. For a child born in another state, you need to follow the procedure for that particular state.
  • The Declaration of Paternity outlines the rights and responsibilities of the man signing the form. Be sure that you review and understand this information before signing the form.
  • If you want to change the child’s birth name (for example, change his or her last name to match that of the legal father), you may do so at this time in Section B of the form.
  • Both the mother and the legal father must sign the completed form.
  • If both parties are not willing to sign the form, a court order will have to be obtained and provided to the Nevada State Office of Vital Records.
Please mail the completed and signed form to: Nevada State Office of Vital Records 4150 Technology Way, Suite 104 Carson City, Nevada 89706

Include a check or money order for $40.00 made out to Nevada Vital Records to cover the costs of changing the birth certificate already on file. This fee includes a certified copy of the revised record, which will be mailed to the requester at the address listed on the form. Additional copies are $20.00 each.

If you have questions about this process, please call the Nevada State Office of Vital Records at 775.684.4242. If you need to make a correction to a birth or death record, fill out the Affidavit For Correction of Record form.
Fill out the Affidavit For Correction of Record to amend or correct information on a birth or death record. Direct questions and send completed forms to the Nevada State Health Division Office of Vital Statistics at http://health.nv.gov/VS.htm Adding a child's legal father to his or her birth certificate requires filling out a Declaration of Paternity form. Find the form and additional information at http://www.washoecounty.us/index/display_faq.html~details=1087#1087
Condoms and Foam work together to help protect you from pregnancy. Condoms help prevent diseases people get from having sex (Sexually Transmitted Diseases). Condoms fit over the man’s erect penis. Sperm are kept inside the condom and can’t get to the woman’s egg.

Condoms and Foam used together give extra protection. Condoms are made of strong latex or plastic. They help keep the man’s sperm out of the woman’s vagina. If the condom breaks or leaks, the foam will help kill the man’s sperm. Condoms also help protect the man and the woman from STDs. Always use condoms every time you have sex. Foam by itself will not protect you from STDs.
Used together, condoms and foam work very well to keep woman from getting pregnant. Between 2 to 15 women out of 100 who use condoms for one year get pregnant. If foam is used by itself, up to 29 women out of 100 may get pregnant.
There is no interruption in fertility with a woman.
It is recommended for use by nursing mothers while breastfeeding.
Condoms can help protect you from HIV (the AIDS virus) and other STDs. You can buy condoms and foam in any drug store or supermarket. They cause no serious health problems.

WARNING: Some lubricants contain nonoxynol 9, which can cause irritation. This irritation may increase the risk of HIV transmission. Don`t use nonoxynol 9 or products containing it!
You must stop and put the condom on. They may irritate the vagina or penis. You must use a new condom and put in more foam every time you have sex.
  • You must put on the condom before you put the penis in or near the vagina.
  • Hold the tip of the condom to squeeze out the air.
  • Roll the condom onto the erect penis.
  • After the man ejaculates (cums), hold onto the base of the condom as the penis is pulled out of the vagina.
  • Roll the condom off and throw it away.
  • If you want to have sex again, use a condom.
Things to remember:
  • Put a gel (like K-Y jelly) on the penis before you use the condom. It may make it more enjoyable.
  • Don’t use Vaseline or other oil-based products. It can damage the condom.
  • Store condoms in a cool, dry place.
Foam works best when you put it in just before you have sex. If it has been more than 15 minutes, you will need more foam.
  • Shake the can at least 20 times. Then fill the applicator with foam.
  • Put the applicator deep into the vagina. Press gently to push the foam up into the vagina.
  • Have sex right away.
  • Use more foam every time you have sex.
There are other methods that kill sperm.
  • Ask your Health Care professional to tell you about the birth control film, suppositories, cream and jelly. These can all be used with condoms, too.
Depo-Provera is used to prevent pregnancy. It is a medication similar to the female hormone progesterone. Similar hormones are also are used in birth control pills and for many medical therapies.
It is given as a shot once every 12 weeks. The shot may be in the arm or in the buttocks. Do not rub the injection site after the shot is given.
Usually, the first shot is given within 5 days of the beginning of the period. In some cases, the first shot may be given at other times. After that, the shot is given once every 12 weeks.
The Depo shot works fastest if the shot is given by the fifth day of the period. A backup method of birth control (i.e. condoms) should be used for seven days after the first shot is given until it becomes fully effective.
It stops the ovaries from releasing eggs, causes the cervical mucus to become thick so that it is hard for sperm to reach an egg, changes the uterine lining, and affects the fallopian tubes.
Approximately one out of every 400 women using this method becomes pregnant. It`s effectiveness rating is 99.6%. This means that it is more effective than sterilization.
There may be a delay in return to fertility. Typically a woman will not be able to become pregnant for 6-12 months after the last shot (the average length of time is 10 months). It may take even longer for some women. If you stop receiving Depo and do not want to become pregnant, you should use another method of birth control.
Yes. It does not affect the amount or quality of breast milk. It can be given after 6 weeks of nursing, by which time lactation is well established. It is passed to the baby in the milk but it is not known to be harmful to the baby.
In addition to being very effective and convenient, it may help decrease anemia and probably decreases your risk of ovarian and uterine cancer. It usually decreases the amount of menstrual blood loss and the amount of cramping with periods.
  • Changes in the menstrual period. During the first year periods usually are irregular and often there is frequent bleeding. Periods can also be heavier/longer, and bleeding could last 30 days or more. After 6-12 months most women have fewer periods and many stop having periods altogether.
  • Pregnancy-like symptoms can occur. These include sore breasts, tiredness, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. These usually go away in 3-6 months.
  • Weight changes may occur because it may increase the appetite. Approximately 66% of women gain weight. However approximately 20% lose weight, and another 10% do not gain or lose weight. The typical weight gain is 5.4 pounds the first year and 8 pounds by the end of the second year. Weight gain can be controlled by diet and exercise.
  • Depression. This may become worse in women who have had problems with depression before. If you notice depression, contact a clinician to talk about the possible relation to Depo.
  • Depo-Provera may cause dark patches on the skin of your face. These patches may continue even after you stop getting the shot and may become worse with sun exposure.
  • Some other reactions that have been reported are headaches, dizziness, nervousness, loss of scalp hair, increase in body hair, and either an increase or a decrease in sex drive.
Women who use contraceptives with hormones (like the Depo shot) have an increased risk of blood clots or stroke. There is also an increased chance of ectopic pregnancy meaning that the fetus develops outside the uterus. Although possible, these events are rare.

Depo may cause bones to become thinner while you use the shot. This could increase your risk of a broken bone. It is important to get enough calcium in your diet while receiving Depo-Provera. When you stop taking Depo, your bones should return to their normal thickness.
Any woman who:
  • Is pregnant or suspects pregnancy
  • Has undiagnosed, irregular bleeding between periods
  • Has serious liver disease
  • Has ever had a liver tumor
  • Has ever had breast cancer
  • Has ever had a stroke
  • Has had blood clots in the legs, lungs, or eyes
  • Is allergic to Depo-Provera
E. coli O157:H7 is one of hundreds of strains of the bacterium Escherichia coli. Although most strains are harmless and live in the intestines of healthy humans and animals, this strain produces a powerful toxin and can cause severe illness.
One way E. coli can be contracted is when a person eats food that has been contaminated with animal waste or unsanitary water.
The main symptom is diarrhea, which is often bloody, accompanied by abdominal cramps. There also can be a mild fever.
In some persons, particularly children under five years of age and the elderly, the infection can also cause a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome, in which the red blood cells are destroyed and the kidneys fail. About two to 7 percent of infections lead to this complication. In the United States, hemolytic uremic syndrome is the principal cause of acute kidney failure in children, and most cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome are caused by E. coli O157:H7.
If you have severe, prolonged or bloody diarrhea, you should seek medical attention.
Symptoms usually resolve within five to 10 days.
ECP is medication that is taken up to 120 hours (five days) after sex to prevent pregnancy. It contains a hormone called levonorgestrel that is similar to the hormone progestin, which is naturally made in the woman’s body.
To reduce the risk of pregnancy, the first dose needs to be taken as soon as possible within 120 hours of unprotected sex. Depending on the type of ECP you take, you may need to take a second dose 12 hours later.
The primary ways that ECPs work is to temporarily stop the ovaries from releasing eggs, and to prevent fertilization. It may also work to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.
ECPs reduce the risk of pregnancy by at least 75% if begun within 72 hours after unprotected sex.
No. ECPs will not affect your ability to get pregnant in the future.
Although a small amount of hormone may be passed to the infant, there have been no problems found with the health, growth or development of the infant. ECPs do not affect the quality or quantity of the breast milk.
No. ECPs are not known to harm a developing fetus.
No. ECPs do not work if you are already pregnant.
Side effects include breast tenderness, headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

You may also have a change in periods (lighter or heavier bleeding).
Any woman who is pregnant or has undiagnosed, irregular bleeding between periods.
A permit is required if the food has been prepared in a commercial establishment. Food that is prepared in a private home and given away free of charge or consideration of any kind is exempt from the permitting requirement, unless it is given to a commercial food establishment. If you are not sure, it is best to contact the District Health Department at 328-2434.
If you believe that you became ill as a result of eating a meal prepared at a food establishment located in Washoe County, please call our office at (775) 328-2434 to report your illness.
A well construction permit must be obtained from the Washoe County District Health Department to construct, drill, recondition or plug a well. The permit applications are available and are processed at the District Health Department offices.
All of the nurses in the Family Planning clinic are female.
  • We do accept some insurance plans.
  • We accept Medicaid, but not NevadaCare or Health Plan of Nevada.
Yes. We have staff that speak Spanish and interpret in the clinic. We also have a telephone interpreting service that can assist with interpretation in many other languages.
We accept cash, check, money orders and credit cards.
The length of time that it takes to get an appointment. The longest wait is if you are a new client, which can vary from 6 to 8 weeks.
  • We provide pregnancy testing and proof of pregnancy if your test is positive. We do not provide prenatal care services: however, we will tell you where to receive those services.
  • The Washoe Pregnancy Center provides prenatal care services on a sliding scale. Their phone number is (775) 982-5640.
If you take an Emergency Contraception (the Plan B pill) within 5 days of unprotected sex you can reduce your chance of pregnancy by up to 75%. You need to be seen by a nurse to receive this medication. Call the clinic ASAP to make an appointment. For weekend, holiday or evening emergency contraception providers in the local area dial 1-888-NOT-2-LATE.
Yes. All appointments are Confidential.
Yes. There are Citifare bus stops close to the Health Department along routes 2 and 12.
Social Services has information on adoption.
Contact Sexual Assault Support Services Crisis Call Center at 784-8090 or 1-800-992-5757 and they will listen to you as well as give you information about resources in the community that may help.
We see women in their reproductive years, which means during the time in their lives when they are able to have children. When a woman reaches menopause (stops having her period) we refer her to a different clinic for annual exams.
Our fees are listed at http://www.washoecounty.us/health/ahs/fees-cchs.php#fp.

These charges are average, your charges could be more or less than what is listed above. For more detailed information see the Cost of Services link.
Hours for the Family Planning Clinic are at http://www.washoecounty.us/health/cchs/fpc.html#lah

Please call 328-2470 to schedule an appointment.

· If it is your first visit, or if your income has changed, please bring proof of family income. For details see Cost of Services link. · If you are on medications, bring in your medications, or write down the names so a nurse can review them. This would also include any birth control pills that you did not receive from this clinic.
The Family Planning clinic offers services to help you plan the size of your family. By using birth control methods a woman has more control over when she has children and how many children she has.
A Pap smear is a test that looks for changes of the cells on the cervix. If you would like to know more, please see the Pap Smear information sheet.
The number to the office clinic is (775) 328-2470. The phones are answered between the hours of 9am -12pm and 1pm - 4pm.
You can pay for your visit on the day that you receive services, or we can put you on a payment plan.
The West End Women`s Medical Group provides abortion services. The phone number is 827-0616.
The Health Department is located at the corner of 9th Street and Wells Ave., just off the freeway and next to the fairgrounds. The address is 1001 East 9th Street, Building B. If you are traveling North on Wells, the entrance to the clinic is the first right (into the parking lot) after passing 9th Street. You can enter the door marked CLINIC SERVICES.
Flu +
You can protect yourself from getting the flu by being vaccinated every year. There are two ways to be vaccinated against flu:
  • Flu shot – Available for those in high risk groups (see below)
  • FluMist (delivered through the nose) - For healthy, non-pregnant people ages 5 to 49.
Being at high-risk means that an individual is at high risk for developing life-threatening complications if he or she gets the flu. High risk does not mean that one is at greater risk for catching the flu.
Those who are considered to be at high risk for developing complications from the flu and who are encouraged to get vaccinated include:
  • Healthy children age six months to four years
  • Persons age 50 years and older
  • Persons age 5 to 49 who have certain chronic medical conditions involving the heart, lungs, kidneys and/or liver, including asthma; those with metabolic, blood or immune system disorders such as diabetes, anemia or immunosuppression caused by medication, cancer treatment or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); and neurological or neuromuscular disorders such as seizures or spinal cord injuries, which can compromise respiratory function or the handling of respiratory secretions or that can increase the risk for aspiration.
  • Pregnant women
  • Children and adolescents age five to 18 years, who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy, and therefore might be at risk for developing Reye syndrome after influenza infection
  • Residents of long-term care facilities
Annual seasonal flu vaccination also is recommended for those who can transmit seasonal influenza to high-risk individuals, including
  • Healthcare personnel who provide direct patient care
  • Household contacts, care givers and daycare providers of those at high risk.
Ask your healthcare provider. Also, you can access seasonal flu vaccination schedules by
  • Logging onto www.washoecounty.us/flu - links to schedules for major local providers are provided
  • Calling the Flu Hotline at (775) 328-3724.
It depends on the type of vaccine used, the age of the client, and the type of insurance the client has.

It is best to
  • Check with your provider
  • Log onto www.washoecounty.us/flu - links to seasonal flu vaccination information for major local providers are provided
Medicare Part B does cover the cost of an annual seasonal flu shot. If you have a senior HMO or another type of insurance or if you want to get FluMist, you should check with your insurance carrier.
In addition to getting vaccinated against the flu, there are several simple, common sense actions people can take to decrease the chance of getting and transmitting the flu:
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 30 seconds to eliminate germs you may have picked up from touching things contaminated with the influenza virus. Carry waterless hand sanitizer for use when soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid touching your mouth and nose – many germs, including influenza, enter the body through these openings.
  • Stay away from crowds. Influenza is transmitted via droplets, which enter the air from a cough or sneeze and can remain airborne for three to six feet. The closer you are to others, the greater your chance of coming into contact with infected airborne particles.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to narrow the distance the droplets travel. Coughing/sneezing into your sleeve eliminates the need for using tissue and washing your hands afterwards.
  • Stay home from work, school and social gatherings as well as those in the high-risk category if you are not feeling well to avoid the spread of disease to others.
Contrary to popular belief, seasonal flu is not a stomach-related illness and, therefore, does not cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Instead, seasonal flu is an illness involving the upper respiratory system. Symptoms generally include the following:
  • Body aches
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Dry cough
  • Fatigue
Seasonal influenza symptoms usually come on rapidly and can last for several days. Depending on age and general health status, people who have the flu can pass it along to others for several days before noticing the onset of symptoms and can remain contagious for several days after symptoms subside.
Although most people who have the flu feel quite ill, some people who have the flu do not experience significant symptoms. But even if you don’t have symptoms, you can spread the flu to others, including those at high risk for developing serious complications. Therefore, getting vaccinated protects both you and those around you from getting the flu.
Flu shots are made from killed virus, so getting a flu shot does not cause the flu.

It takes about two weeks for a flu shot to reach its maximum level of protection. So, if you were exposed to the flu before getting the shot or during the two weeks immediately thereafter, you could experience flu symptoms because you were not protected when you were exposed. Or you could have gotten a strain of the flu that was not included in the current year`s vaccine mix (each year`s mix includes only the three strains believed to be the most likely to circulate during the current season) or you may have gotten a different disease that has similar symptoms.

The most common side effect from the flu shot is soreness at the site of injection. This can be reduced by exercising your arm frequently within the first couple of hours after receiving the shot and throughout the day.
  • Infants under 6 months of age because they are too young to receive flu vaccine.
  • Anyone who has ever had a severe allergic reaction to eggs or any components in flu vaccine.
  • Anyone who has had Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a neurological disorder.
The Northern Nevada Immunization Coalition’s mission is to promote health and decrease the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases in northern Nevada through community partnerships and education. Established in 1995, the non-profit, community-based coalition is comprised of leaders from various public and private organizations that are working together to improve statewide immunization rates.

The following members of Partners Promoting Adult Immunizations, a sub-group of the coalition, have made this year’s local flu shot events possible: Carson City Health and Human Services, Carson Tahoe Regional Healthcare, Don’s Pharmacy, Incline Village Community Hospital, GlaxoSmithKline Vaccines, Maxim Healthcare Services, MedImmune, Merck, Nevada State Health Division, Northern Nevada Medical Center, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Novartis (formerly Chiron), Orvis Nursing Clinic, Raley’s, REMSA, the Reno Gazette-Journal, Reno-Sparks Rotary Clubs, Renown (formerly Washoe Medical Center), Saint Mary’s, Sanofi Pasteur (formerly Aventis), UNR Student Health Services, and the Washoe County District Health Department.
While October and November are typically the months when most people get their flu shots, seasonal influenza can begin to increase as early as November or December, but has not reached peak levels in the majority of recent flu seasons in the United States until late December through early March. So getting a seasonal flu shot later than November can still provide protection against seasonal flu. Those in the high-risk category are encouraged to get vaccinated as early in the season as possible to maximize their protection against seasonal flu.
No. “Pandemic” means that many people in many places are becoming ill with the same disease at the same time. A flu pandemic occurs with the emergence of a new flu virus which
  • Spreads easily from person to person
  • Is not yet preventable through vaccination, as a vaccine cannot be developed until after the new strain emerges.
There have been three flu pandemics in the last century. Experts say that we are due for another one. We just don’t know when it will occur.

The “bird flu” or “avian influenza” virus has shown the ability to move from birds to people who are in close proximity to infected birds. However, the avian influenza virus of concern (H5N1) has not yet shown the ability to pass easily and sustainably from human to human. If the H5N1 virus mutates to spread easily from person to person to person, it could signal the beginning of a flu pandemic.
Yes. Coffee (not latte/espresso), tea, prepackaged and unopened non-perishable snacks and candy, canned and bottled soft-drinks and water in original container, canned and bottled pasteurized juices in original container, and whole produce are all exempt from permit.
Never. No storage, slicing, dicing, marinating, cooking or any process related to food preparation for any food item, dressing, garnish or other is allowed at a private residence for items served to the general public at a Special Event.
A permit is required if the food has been prepared in a commercial establishment. Food that is prepared in a private home and given away free of charge or consideration of any kind is exempt from the permitting requirement, unless it is given to a commercial food establishment. If you are not sure, it is best to contact the District Health Department at 328-2434.
No. County Finance has not passed any such exemptions for purchase of permits.
Yes, with proof of non-profit status for a temporary food establishment that donates all proceeds to the non-profit agency. (See current Fee Schedule for Environmental Health Services, TEMPORARY FOOD SERVICE, NON-PROFIT.
No. There is an annual permit for certified produce vendors who wish to sample that applies only to sanctioned Farmer`s Markets. The Washoe County Health District permits and inspects every event separately.
Absolutely; a permit is not transferable from person to person or place to place and unless the operation is conducted from the mobile and contained within the mobile with a menu approval, a separated temporary food permit is required.
There is a late fee that applies if the permit is not purchased at least seven (7) calendar days ahead of time. The District Health Department discourages late applications and may deny applicants that are chronically late.
No. The application is subject to review and food service operations must comply with regulations. Incomplete applications may be rejected. Applications may also be rejected based on inability to contact the person in charge of food service, menu item restrictions, or operational concerns.
Advanced preparation must be approved by the Health Department ahead of time as per application. Menu items, storage, transport, time and temperature will all be considered before such approval is granted. Cooking and cooling food items prior to an event is usually not allowed.
In 1987, the Washoe County Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) developed this program to reduce the emissions from woodstoves and fireplaces during wintertime high pollution episodes. One of three burn code colors is issued each day based on the current and forecasted air quality. Each color lets you know if you can light your stove or fireplace. The Burn code address all solid fuels including wood, pellets, fire logs, coal, etc.

Green - When the Air Quality Index (AQI) is in the Good or low to mid Moderate range, the burn code is Green and that means it’s okay to light a fire in your stove or fireplace. But keep in mind that you should always burn seasoned wood.

Yellow - Slow down on the amount of wood you burn or stop burning altogether. When the AQI reaches the upper end of the Moderate range, the burn code switches to Yellow. This is still a voluntary stage, but if you stop burning wood now, it may be possible to avoid worse pollution tomorrow.

Red - When the AQI exceeds 100, it’s Red and that means stop all residential and commercial burning immediately. If weather forecasts show little chance of the temperature inversion lifting, the District Health Officer will call a Stage 1 Episode prohibiting burning for 24 hours, or until weather patterns change and the pollution levels decrease.

The program is in effect from November through February and applies to Southern Washoe County from Cold Springs to Washoe Valley.
The Burn Code applies to businesses and residences located in the following ZIP codes:

89431, 89433, 89434, 89436, 89439, 89441, 89501, 89502, 89503, 89506, 89509, 89511, 89512, 89519, 89521, 89523, 89595, 89704
In the Truckee Meadows, wood burning accounts for nearly 50 percent of wintertime fine particulate matter. The purpose of the Green, Yellow, Red Burn Code Program is to reduce the harmful emissions that come from wood burning. The Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) provides a daily burn code which tells residents when burning is restricted or prohibited during the months of November through February. We all breathe unhealthy air when weather conditions trap pollution close to the ground during the fall and winter months. It’s the AQMD’s responsibility to protect public health and achieve clean air goals.
Fine particulate matter is a complex mixture that may contain soot, smoke, metals, nitrates, sulfates and dust. Studies have linked long-term exposure to particle pollution, especially fine particles, with serious health problems including decreased lung function, aggravated asthma, development of chronic respiratory disease in children (asthma), irregular heartbeat, nonfatal heart attacks, premature death in people with heart or lung disease and increased susceptibility to heart and vascular disease for post-menopausal women. In addition, new health studies have shown that breathing wood smoke reduces the blood's ability to clot, and specifically for children it lowers IQ and decreases memory. Children are more likely to suffer effects because their respiratory systems are developing and they breathe more air per pound of body weight.
On days when the air quality is forecast to be unhealthy, residents and businesses in Washoe County are prohibited from using stoves and fireplaces that burn wood, pellets, manufactured logs, or any other type of solid fuel. In the winter of 2009-2010, the Air Quality Management Division issued ten Red burn codes.
The following exemptions apply to the Red burn code:
  • Homes in ZIP codes OUTSIDE the burn restriction area;
  • Homes where wood burning is the only available source of heat (Note: You must submit a sole source of heat declaration to the AQMD each winter season. Contact the AQMD at (775) 784-7200 for a declaration form or visit the Green, Yellow, Red Burn Code Program page.);
  • Fireplaces and stoves that operate exclusively with natural gas or propane;
  • Non-permitted cooking devices; and
  • Ceremonial fires related to specific religious activities.
Enforcement will be through sightings of visible smoke by Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) enforcement staff. The locations to be observed are determined by complaints or AQMD surveillance routes. Violations of the burn ban can result in warnings and/or fines from the AQMD.
It is your responsibility to know the Green, Yellow, Red Burn Code Program. The Air Quality Management Divison (AQMD) provides five ways for you to find out the day’s burn status:
  • Call the air quality hotline at (775) 785-4110 for daily recorded burn status information;
  • Sign-up for a daily air quality update email by contacting the AQMD at (775) 784-7200;
  • Listen to television and radio weather forecasts;
  • Check the Reno-Gazette Journal's weather page; or
  • Visit the AQMD website at www.washoecounty.us/health
Contact the Air Quality Management Division at (775) 784-7200.
Visit the Air Quality Management Division website at www.washoecounty.us/health, or contact the Air Quality Management Division at (775) 784-7200.
  • The novel H1N1 flu vaccine is made in the same way as vaccine for seasonal flu.
  • Tests have shown that the novel H1N1 vaccine is safe and effective in reducing your chances of getting and transmitting the novel H1N1 virus.
  • The most common reaction to getting vaccinated is soreness at the site of the shot, for people vaccinated by injection.
It takes the vaccine about 10 to 14 days to become fully effective.
  • You cannot get the flu from getting vaccinated.
  • If you were exposed to the novel H1N1 flu virus 24 hours or less prior to getting vaccinated or during the 10 to 14 day period immediately following vaccination, you could still get sick and/or pass along the illness to others.
Our administration fee for most childhood immunizations is based on income, insurance status, and the vaccines needed. We accept cash, checks, debit cards, Visa, and MasterCard. We do not accept any insurance plans.

For our current list of vaccines with current fees please visit our Immunization Fees for Children and Immunization Fees for Adults pages.
The Health District only bills Medicaid, Nevada Check-up, and Medicare. You will be provided a receipt to submit to your insurance company with your claim for reimbursement.
The Health District provides a limited amount of vaccines for adults. For our current list of vaccines with current fees please visit the Immunization Fees for Adults page.
Appointments are required for immunizations. We make appointments up to one week in advance. (Occasionally we can take walk-ins, depending on the schedule of that day.)

To make an appointment for immunizations, please call 775-328-2402 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday. Please be patient as our phone lines can be very busy!
States have different requirements for school entry. The following are required by Nevada State Law:
  1. Tdap - All students entering 7th Grade must have a Tdap.
  2. Varicella - Students new to Nevada schools, who have not had Chicken Pox Disease, must have two (2) Varicella doses. The second dose must be at four (4) years of age or older.
  3. Polio - Students new to Nevada schools must have four (4) doses of Polio. The 4th dose must be at four (4) years of age or older.
A parent or legal guardian must be the person who receives the vaccine information sheet (VIS), HIPAA informational sheet, HIPAA consent form and completes the vaccine administration record for the child receiving shots. Vaccine Information Sheets (VIS).
Many physicians and clinics offer both adult and childhood immunizations. Please check with your physician or clinic about their immunization policy.
Many shot records indicate when the next vaccinations are due. Parents can check with their physician's office or clinic. Complete childhood and adult immunization schedules are available at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/. As a rule, children need baby shots at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months. Afterwards, immunizations are routinely given again at age four (4).
For information about international travels requiring typhoid, yellow fever, and other such shots, contact St. Mary's Wellness at 775-770-7100 option 2 or Orvis Nursing Clinic at 775-327-5000.
For our current list of vaccines with current fees, please visit Immunization Fees for Children and Immunization Fees for Adults.
In the event of an incident, time and resources are simply not available to process, train and manage spontaneous volunteers. The MRC registers and screens members, verifying medical licenses in advance to ensure a rapid, coordinated response. Spontaneous volunteers often present a hindrance to incident management and may be turned away. If you want to be part of disaster response effort, become a member of the MRC now so you can be deployed quickly when an emergency occurs.
Our original goal was to build our volunteer membership to 150 by the end of summer of 2010; we have already exceded that and hope to expand to 200 by the end of summer 2011.

The MRC welcomes individuals from medical and non-medical professions. Medical practitioners include physicians, pharmacists, nurse practitioners, nurses, mental health professionals, respiratory therapists, and veterinarians are needed to provide emergency services during disasters.

Public Health professionals, including administrators, epidemiologists, health educators, and communicable disease and environmental health specialists are needed to help promote community health during non-emergency situations, as well as during disasters.

Non-medical volunteers are needed to fill many key support roles, including managers, clerical personnel, interpreters, drivers, food service workers, messengers, security staff, and laborers.

Retirees from medical and non-medical careers fill both clinical and support roles in the MRC, as do medical and health professions students.
Depending upon the scope of the disaster, you should expect to work one 8 hour shift per each 24 hour period, for three to five days.
Members who will fill supervisory roles can expect to spend approximately 28 hours in training the first year. Members who will fill non-supervisory roles can expect to spend approximately 20 hours in training the first year (23 if they need CPR/First Aid training.) Training time in subsequent years will vary, depending upon the member`s role. Additionally, all members will be expected to participate in an eight-hour exercise each year.

Much of the training is in the form of online courses which can be completed on your home computer, at your own pace, at whatever time is convenient for you. All training is provided at no cost to the volunteer.
Membership is voluntary, and you are not required to assist in any particular response effort. Within a short period after an incident occurs, you may be contacted by MRC staff and asked to assist. Your ability to respond to a request will not affect your continued membership in the MRC.
As part of the new member orientation, you will learn how to develop a disaster plan for your family. Family members should be included in planning and decision-making, preparing an emergency kit, and gathering appropriate resources to activate the plan in the event of an emergency.
A member’s role will depend upon the following factors:
  • Type, magnitude, duration, and severity of the incident
  • Roles identified by incident command staff as necessary for the response effort
  • Member’s skills, interests, and licensure
MRC staff will make role assignments based on resource needs and availability. You can be assured that you will not be asked to perform a role that you are not prepared for.
Each member is encouraged to have a signed memorandum of understanding with his or her employer to acknowledge that the employee has committed time to the MRC and the employer understands the employee may be unable to fulfill job responsibilities if deployed in response to an incident.
The primary responsibility of the Washoe County MRC is to respond to local incidents. In the event of a regional or national incident, if a request is made for assistance from our units, members may be deployed elsewhere only when they are not needed locally.
When an incident occurs for which the MRC will be deployed, appropriate members will be contacted via e-mail and telephone. Notices will also be posted on this website.
The concept of just-in-time training is to provide training at the time it is most needed. In emergency management, just-in-time training incorporates information specific to the type and magnitude of the incident. The MRC uses just-in-time training for its members immediately after deployment to issue assignments and equipment necessary for their role in the incident.
Potential risks depend upon the type, magnitude and duration of the incident. The orientation session, trainings, and exercises prepare MRC members to protect themselves while working in the response efforts. A member always has the opportunity to decline deployment if he or she is uncomfortable with the assignment, without affecting continued membership in the MRC.
The Washoe County MRC requires members to have current vaccinations for, or immunity to:
  • Influenza (seasonal)
  • Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis
  • Measles, mumps, and rubella
  • Varicella (chickenpox)
Required vaccinations are provided at no cost to volunteers.

Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are recommended but not required for membership.
Background checks for all members, and licensure verification for healthcare practitioners are completed to protect both MRC members and the public they will be serving.
The Minipill is a birth control pill that contains only the hormone progesterone. Most birth control pills contain two hormones, estrogen and progesterone.
The Minipill is taken at the same time every day. Every time you take a pill late, and especially if you miss a pill, you are more likely to get pregnant.
It is best to take your first pill on the first day of your menstrual period, but it can be started at other times.
Use a backup method of birth control every time you have sex during the first seven days after you take your first pill.
The Minipill stops the ovaries from releasing eggs in about half of the cycles. It makes the cervical mucus at the entrance to the uterus thick so that it is hard for sperm to reach the egg. They also affect other hormones, the fallopian tubes and the lining of the uterus.
About 1 out of every 200 women using the Minipill will get pregnant in the first year if they take it every day at the same time. For women who occasionally miss taking pills or don`t take them at the same time every day, 1 out of every 20 will get pregnant.
Immediately. The Minipill does not delay your ability to get pregnant after you stop taking it.
Yes. The Minipill will not affect the quality or amount of your breast milk or the health of your nursing baby. If you are breastfeeding you may start the Minipill 6 weeks after delivery (after your postpartum checkup). The Minipill works most effectively for mothers that are exclusively breastfeeding (not giving your baby food or formula).
If you miss taking one or two pills, or are more than 3 hours late taking your pill follow these steps:
  1. Take a missed pill/pills as soon as you remember that you missed it.
  2. Go back to taking your pills at your regular time.
  3. Use a backup method of birth control (like condoms) every time you have sex for the next 48 hours.
If you miss more than two pills do not take your missed pills. Continue taking your pills as normal, and use a back-up method until you can talk to your health care provider.
The Minipill is recommended for breastfeeding women, and because it has less serious side effects than the regular birth control pills, it can be taken by women who should not use estrogen (women who have high blood pressure, and smokers over age 35).
Changes in menstrual period. You may have spotting, irregular periods or no periods.

You may experience tender breasts.

The Minipill may cause dark patches on the skin of your face. These patches may continue even after you stop using the Minipill and may become worse with sun exposure.
Women who use contraceptives with hormones (like the Minipill) have an increased risk of blood clots or stroke. There is also an increased chance of ectopic pregnancy meaning that the fetus develops outside the uterus. Although possible, these events are rare.

Women using the Minipill also have an increased chance of developing ovarian cysts.
Any woman who:
  • Is pregnant or suspects pregnancy
  • Has undiagnosed, irregular bleeding between periods
  • Has liver disease or liver tumors
  • Has or suspects breast or uterine cancer
Mirena is a flexible T-shaped unit that is placed inside the uterus, where it stays until removed by a health care professional. It contains a progestin hormone that is constantly released in the uterus. It is used to prevent pregnancy and can do so for five years, or until it is removed.
A health care professional will clean your vagina and cervix and then insert a thin tube of flexible plastic into your uterus. Inside the tube is the Mirena. When Mirena is in place in the uterus, the tube will be removed. Most women experience some discomfort during insertion. Insertion takes only a few minutes.
There is no single explanation of how Mirena works. It may stop release of your egg from your ovary, but this is not the way it works in most cases. It may block sperm from reaching or fertilizing your egg. It may make the lining of your uterus thin. We do not know which of these actions is most important for preventing pregnancy and most likely all of them work together.
Mirena is effective at preventing pregnancy as soon as it is inserted, although a back-up method (like condoms) is recommended until the IUD check 4-6 weeks after insertion.
Less that 1 out of every 100 women using Mirena become pregnant while using it.
Yes. For the first 3 to 6 months you will have frequent spotting or light bleeding in addition to your period. Your period may become irregular in the first 6 months, and a few women have heavy periods that last longer than normal.

After your body adjusts, your periods get shorter and you may even stop having periods. This is not harmful to your body.
Your normal ability to become pregnant returns as soon as Mirena is removed. Your health care professional can remove Mirena at any time.
Yes. Mirena is thought to be safe for breastfeeding women.
Mirena is effective for 5 years. It can decrease the blood loss, cramping and length of periods. It can also decrease anemia, or low iron levels in the blood.
There are many side effects of Mirena. The most common are: changes in your period, lower abdominal pain, acne or other skin problems, back pain, breast tenderness, headache, mood changes, and nausea.

Other side effects are possible. Talk with your nurse for more information.
Although rare, some Mirena users get a serious pelvic infection called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause serious problems like infertility, ectopic pregnancy or constant pelvic pain.

Mirena may go through the uterus, which would require surgery to remove it.

Ovarian cysts have been diagnosed in about 12% of Mirena users. These usually go away on their own in a few months, but they can cause pain and sometimes require surgery.

Mirena may also come out of place by itself. You could get pregnant if this happens.

Other risks of using Mirena include cramps, dizziness and faintness with insertion; increased chance of a pregnancy outside of the uterus if a pregnancy does occur, and severe and life-threatening infection after insertion.
Any woman who:
  • Is pregnant or suspects pregnancy
  • Might have cancer of the uterus or cervix
  • Has undiagnosed, irregular bleeding between periods
  • Has serious liver disease or tumor
  • Has ever had breast cancer
  • Has had pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Has an untreated pelvic infection now
A woman is fertile (able to get pregnant) only for a rather short time during each menstrual cycle. For most of the cycle, she should be infertile (not able to get pregnant). A woman or couple may learn how to tell fertile days from infertile days by checking the woman’s bodily signs daily and keeping a chart of the changes.

FAM consist of those methods used by women to estimate the time of month they are most fertile (about seven days in length) this is the time when you could get pregnant. Some women choose to avoid sexual intercourse during the time of the month when they are most likely to become pregnant. This is called periodic abstinence. Other women choose to use one or more contraceptive methods during their fertile time. FAMs are named after the method a woman uses to recognize her fertile days. These include: Natural family planning, Sympto-Thermal Method, Ovulation method, Mucus/Temperature and/or Rhythm.
It is based on the fact that a woman is fertile only around the time of ovulation (the release of a ripe egg from an ovary). It relies on the following beliefs:
  • An egg is usually released each cycle
  • The egg is released about 14 days before the menstruation cycle
  • The egg lives 12-24 hours, and after the sperm get into a woman’s reproductive system, they might be able to fertilize (join) an egg for up to five days
This means that a woman is fertile for as long as five days before ovulation due to sperm life and after ovulation she is considered fertile for two to three days. This means that the woman is fertile for seven to eight days of her cycle each month. The remaining days are not believed to be fertile days, and intercourse during that part of the cycle should not result in pregnancy. The aim of FAM is to recognize when the ovulation is approaching (fertile phase begins) and when it has passed (fertile phase ends).
Pregnancy rates vary depending on whether one method or combinations of methods of FAM are used, or whether barrier methods are added during the fertile time. FAM is most effective with no intercourse during the fertile phase. About 24 out of 100 who are average users and rely on FAM with periodic abstinence may become pregnant each year.

Careful and consistent use can give better results. To make the method work best for you, you should talk to your healthcare professional.
  • The method has no health risks or side effects for the woman.
  • It can be used to prevent or to plan a pregnancy.
  • It can be quite effective if used correctly and consistently, especially if you have regular periods.
  • It is acceptable for couples with religious concerns about birth control.
  • The method is free, except for a thermometer (and possibly a class fee and purchased charts).
  • It can lead to greater awareness and understanding of the body.
  • Couples may develop greater communication, cooperation and responsibility.
  • Barrier methods that have very few side effects may be uses with FAM during the fertile period to increase the effectiveness of pregnancy prevention.
  • Even with correct use, the failure rate is often higher than with other methods. If the method is not used correctly and consistently, pregnancy is risked.
  • Learning the method takes time and effort.
  • Using the method requires considerable commitment, calculations and self-control.
  • Both the woman and her partner must use self-control, unless a barrier method is added during the fertile period.
  • If the woman or her partner has other sexual partners there is the risk of transmitting (passing on) a sexually transmitted disease.
ParaGard is a flexible T-shaped unit that is placed inside the uterus, where it stays until removed by a health care professional. It is used to prevent pregnancy and can do so for ten years, or until it is removed.
A health care professional will clean your vagina and cervix and insert a thin tube of flexible plastic into your uterus. Inside the tube is the ParaGard. When ParaGard is in place in the uterus, the tube will be removed. Most women experience some discomfort during insertion. Insertion takes only a few minutes.
ParaGard contains copper, which is released slowly all the time it is in the uterus. Currently, how ParaGard prevents pregnancy is not completely understood. Several theories have been suggested, including interference with sperm transport, fertilization and implantation.
ParaGard is effective at preventing pregnancy as soon as it is inserted, although a back-up method (like condoms) is recommended until the IUD check 4-6 weeks after insertion.
Less that 1 out of every 100 women using ParaGard become pregnant while using it.
Possibly. Some women have bleeding between their periods, especially during the first 6 months. Some women have heavy periods that last longer than normal.
Your normal ability to become pregnant returns as soon as ParaGard is removed. Your health care professional can remove ParaGard at any time.
Yes. ParaGard is thought to be safe for breastfeeding women.
ParaGard is effective for 10 years. There are no hormonal side effects that are found with other methods.
There are many side effects of ParaGard, such as lower abdominal pain, back pain, fainting and pain at time of insertion, pain when having sex, and increased vaginal discharge.

Other side effects are possible. Talk with your nurse for more information.
Some ParaGard users get a serious pelvic infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause serious problems like infertility, ectopic pregnancy or constant pelvic pain.

ParaGard may go through the uterus, which would require surgery to remove it.

ParaGard may also come out by itself. You could get pregnant if this happens.

Other risks of using ParaGard include cramps, dizziness and faintness with insertion; increased chance of a pregnancy outside of the uterus if a pregnancy does occur, and severe pain after insertion with life-threatening infection.
Any woman who:
  • Is pregnant or suspects pregnancy
  • Has undiagnosed, irregular vaginal bleeding
  • Has had pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Has an untreated pelvic infection now
PDF files require Adobe Reader. It can be found at http://www.adobe.com.
If you live in Washoe County and are pregnant or parenting, you may qualify for services.
For more information, please contact Candy Hunter at (775)328-2628.
Services provided by PHNs in the Home Visitation Program are absolutely free! They meet with you at your convenience and you decide how long you want to work with them.
Services provided by PHN`s in the Home Visitation Program are absolutely free! The PHN meets with the client at the clients convenience and the client decides how long they want to work with the PHN.
Any parent who is pregnant or parenting and assessed to be in need to public health nursing visits may be referred for services.
To make a referral click on the link located on the Service Providers page for the referral form. Contact information is included on the form.
Salmonellosis is an illness with symptoms that usually begin in the intestines. It is caused by a bacterium called Salmonella.
  • About 40,000 cases are reported in the United States each year (actual number may be significantly higher, as many milder cases are not diagnosed or reported.
  • About 400 people with acute Salmonella die each year.
  • It is more common in the summer than in the winter.
  • Children are the most likely to get Salmonella.
Yes.
Diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps.
Through the feces of people or animals including birds and especially reptiles (this includes turtles) to other people or animals, usually through food that has been contaminated, either though direct contact with infected feces or through unwashed hands of an infected food handler (didn’t wash hands after using the bathroom).
Symptoms develop within 12 to 72 hours after infection.
Usually five to seven days.
Depends on environmental conditions.
Through fecal specimens sent to a testing laboratory.
At least 72 hours, as testing involves growing a culture.
  • Most infected persons recover without treatment.
  • Some develop severe diarrhea, leading to dehydration and hospitalization for rehydration with intravenous fluids.
  • In some cases, the infection can spread from the intestines to the bloodstream, then to other body sites. In these cases, death can result unless the infected person is treated promptly with antibiotics.
  • A small number of people go on to develop Reiter’s syndrome (pains in joints, irritation of the eyes and painful urination), which can last for months or years and can lead to chronic arthritis.
  • Young children, the elderly and the immunocompromised are the most likely to have severe infections.
  • Most infected persons recover without treatment unless the person becomes severely dehydrated.
  • Antibiotics usually are not necessary unless the infection spreads beyond the intestines.
  • Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent Salmonella.
  • The primary method of prevention is to thoroughly wash your hands
    • After using the bathroom
    • After having contact with animal feces
    • After handling reptiles or birds
  • Avoid cross-contamination by
    • Thoroughly washing your hands before handling any food and between handling different types of food
    • Keeping uncooked meats separate from produce, cooked foods and ready-to-eat foods
    • Thoroughly wash hands and cutting boards, counters, knives and other utensils used to prepare uncooked foods of animal origin.
  • Do not eat or drink raw or undercooked foods of animal origin (e.g., eggs, poultry or meat or unpasteurized milk).
  • Thoroughly wash produce before eating.
  • If you have Salmonella, do not prepare food or pour water for others until you have been shown to no longer be carrying the Salmonella bacterium.
The ban was passed in order to protect the public from secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke, also called environmental tobacco smoke, is a combination of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, cigar or pipe and the smoke exhaled by smokers.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that secondhand smoke contains more than 4,000 substances, many of which are known to cause cancer in humans. In 2006, the U.S. Surgeon General released a comprehensive report stating that there is no risk-free level of secondhand smoke exposure.
The smoking ban, known as the Nevada Clean Indoor Air Act (NCIAA), became statewide law on December 8, 2006.
As a result of the voters' mandate, smoking tobacco in any form now is prohibited within indoor places of employment, including, but not limited to: childcare facilities, movie theatres, video arcades; government buildings and public places; malls and retail establishments; all areas of grocery stores; all indoor areas within restaurants; and within school buildings and on school property.

Smoking tobacco is not prohibited in areas within casinos where loitering by minors is already prohibited by state law; stand-alone bars, taverns, and saloons that do not require a permit to serve food; strip clubs and brothels; retail tobacco stores; private residences, including those which may serve as an office workplace, except if used as a childcare, an adult day care or a health care facility; and hotel and motel rooms, if allowed by the facility operator.

See the full wording of the smoking ban.
Please see the guide for restaurants and bars (PDF, 109 KB) for information on compliance.
Please see the guide for childcare facilities (PDF, 108 KB) for information on compliance.
Please see the guide for employers (PDF, 111 KB) for information on compliance.
Please see the guide for restaurants and bars (PDF, 109 KB) for information on compliance.
Please contact Environmental Health Services at 775-328-2434 or fill out the smoking complaint form.
Compliance with the ban is the responsibility of the owner, manager or operator of an area where smoking is prohibited. A reasonable effort to prevent smoking should be made by this individual or group of individuals. Health authorities, police officers of cities or towns, sheriffs and their deputies shall, within their respective jurisdictions, enforce the provisions of the ban and shall issue citations for violations of the ban.
A person who is found to violate the ban is guilty of a misdemeanor, which generally carries a fine imposed by a judge. In addition, a person who violates this ban is liable for a civil penalty of $100 for each violation.
Please contact Environmental Health Services at 775-328-2434 with any questions you may have about enforcement and compliance.

For questions about the public health impact of the ban, call 775-328-2442.
If you smoke and want to quit, see the list of local stop smoking programs.
On December 5, 2006, a group of 20 businesses in Clark County (primarily bar owners and casinos) filed a complaint against the smoking ban in the Eighth Judicial District Court. A temporary restraining order (TRO) was issued that prohibited the Southern Nevada Health District from enforcing the smoking ban at those 20 businesses. The TRO did not cancel the law. The TRO was lifted on December 19, 2006. On January 23, 2007, at the request of the state Attorney General, the Eighth Judicial District Court held a hearing on the constitutionality of the smoking ban. The Court ruled that the smoking ban is constitutional. However, the Court removed the law's criminal penalties in Clark County only. In the rest of Nevada, it is legal to implement the law with both civil and criminal penalties.

At this time, the only way the law would change at a statewide level is through the State Supreme Court.
Exposure to secondhand smoke has been linked to numerous life-threatening diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and cancer. Eliminating smoking in indoor spaces reduces exposure to secondhand smoke, thereby reducing the occurrence of these chronic illnesses. Research in communities that have implemented indoor smoking bans shows significant improvement to public health after the ban goes into effect. For example, hospital admissions for heart attacks dropped 40 percent in the six months following an indoor smoking ban in Helena, Montana; and, in Pueblo, Colorado, heart attacks declined 30 percent in 18 months after smoking was banned indoors.
Banning smoking in indoor spaces has been shown to have a positive impact for business owners in addition to the general community. Studies have shown that banning smoking in restaurants and bars can boost revenues and increase employment. For example, taxable sales receipts for bars and restaurants have increased every year in California since their smoking ban took effect in 2002. In New York City, tax receipts for restaurant and bars increased 8.7 percent, and employment increased by 10,600 jobs since their 2003 smoking ban went into effect; and, in Florida, retail sales for restaurants, lunchrooms, and catering services increased by 7.3 percent after a 2003 smoking ban. Florida’s sales and employment in the hotel, restaurant, and tourism industries also were not hurt. Smoking bans in places of employment also have been shown to lower employee sick leave usage, health insurance costs, fire insurance rates, and cleaning costs.

Many studies have been conducted about the business impact of indoor smoking bans. For more information about these studies, please visit: www.tobaccoscam.ucsf.edu.
The cost to comply with the law will vary for each business, but, in general, there are minimal costs. Employers must clearly and conspicuously post "No Smoking" signs in their facilities at every entrance. They also are required to remove all ashtrays and other smoking paraphernalia from any area where smoking is prohibited. For some businesses, additional costs may be associated with the removal of built-in ashtrays or other smoking-related items.
If you see someone smoking indoors in a facility where smoking is now illegal, you should immediately inform the owner and/or manager of the facility. It is the business's responsibility to enforce the new law in their establishment. If the business owner/manager does not respond to your compliant, you also may file a formal compliant with the Health Department. You will need to know the name and address of the location where the violation occurred, and you also will need to provide your name and contact information, as anonymous complaints are not currently accepted.
For more information about tobacco and secondhand smoke, please visit: http://www.washoecounty.us/health/cchs/tobacco.html or call (775) 328-2442.
Smokers play an important role in helping to implement the new law. First and foremost, it is now illegal for you to smoke indoors in a facility where smoking has been banned. Even if a "No Smoking" sign is not displayed there, you are still required by law to refrain from smoking. You should also not bring any ashtrays or items used as ashtrays into a facility where smoking is now banned. You may still smoke anywhere outside of a facility where smoking is now banned indoors. You may also still smoke indoors at the following types of businesses:
  1. Areas within casinos where loitering by minors is already prohibited by state law;
  2. Stand-alone bars, taverns, and saloons that do not require a permit to serve food;
  3. Strip clubs and brothels;
  4. Retail tobacco stores;
  5. Private residences, including those which may serve as an office workplace, except if used as a childcare, an adult day care, or a health care facility; and
  6. Hotel and motel rooms, but only if allowed by the facility operator, so please ask the operator first before smoking there.
If you are uncertain about being able to smoke indoors, please ask the owner and/or manager of the facility first before smoking there. Your compliance with the new law helps protect non-smokers and children from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Your compliance also helps merchants meet their responsibilities under the new law. If you are asked by a representative of the business to refrain from smoking inside their facility, please do as they ask. It is the business's responsibility to enforce the new law in their establishment; if you are found smoking indoors at a location where smoking is now banned, then the business itself could be cited and required to pay a fine. You, too, could be found guilty of a misdemeanor, which generally carries a fine imposed by a judge. A person who violates this ban is also liable for a civil penalty of $100 for each violation.
Sec. 2 (7) of the new law states that “Health authorities, police officers of cities or towns, sheriffs and their deputies shall, within their respective jurisdictions, enforce the provisions of this Act and shall issue citations for violations of this Act[.]” The District Health Department is the health authority for Washoe County (per NRS 202.2485). Therefore, the District Health Department is required by law to enforce the smoking ban.
Sec. 2 (9) (d) of the new law defines "public places" as "any enclosed areas to which the public is invited or in which the public is permitted." If a business meets this definition, then smoking must be banned there indoors, regardless of how the facility is owned. The law also defines a "place of employment" in Sec. 2 (9) (i) as "any enclosed area under the control of a public or private employer which employees frequent during the course of employment including, but not limited to, work areas, restrooms, hallways, employee lounges, cafeterias, conference and meeting rooms, lobbies and reception areas." Again, if a business meets this definition, then smoking must be banned indoors as described, regardless of how the facility is owned. The law does make an exception in Sec. 2 (3) (e) for private residences that serve as workplaces, except if they are being used as a childcare, adult day care, or health care facility.
Ashtrays or any items being used as an ashtray (e.g., beer bottles, coffee mugs, discarded trash, etc.) are considered smoking-related paraphernalia and must be removed from any area where smoking is prohibited. Merchants may still sell tobacco products.
Staff from the Environmental Health Services Division of the District Health Department have been conducting smoking ban compliance surveys during routine inspections since December 19, 2006. To date, an average 96.5% of permitted facilities were in compliance with the requirements set forth in the NCIAA during routine Environmental Health Services permit inspections.
No. The NCIAA states: “Smoking tobacco in any form is prohibited within indoor places of employment including, but not limited to, the following:
  1. Child care facilities;
  2. Movie theatres;
  3. Video arcades;
  4. Government buildings and public places;
  5. Malls and retail establishments;
  6. All areas of grocery stores; and
  7. All indoor areas within restaurants.”
There are no provisions for allowing smoking, at any time, in any of the above locations.
Asking strangers, and sometimes even friends and family, to smoke outside can sometimes be stressful. It is important to remember that the vast majority of people are respectful and will abide by the law, if they are aware and reminded of it. Below are 4 ways to ask people who smoke to "take it outside". It may not be easy at first but you have the right and the responsibility to avoid secondhand smoke.
  1. As the business owner/manager to enforce the law: I thought this was a non-smoking business. Would you please ask them to smoke outside?
  2. Remind them of the law: Maybe you didn`t know, but Nevada law prohibits smoking in this area/building/business. Smoking is allowed outside.
  3. Be polite: I would like to ask a favor. Would you mind smoking outside? This is a non-smoking area.
  4. It is the smoke, not the smoker that is the problem: Would you not smoke right now? I`d really appreciate it.
Solid waste is anything you would throw away or discard such as garbage or trash.
There is a glossary in the beginning of the Plan. The EPA website also has a helpful glossary of terms at http://www.epa.gov/OCEPATERMS/ .
STD +
The clinic address is 1001 E. 9th Street Bldg. B on the 1st Floor under Clinic Services. This is the county complex on the corner of 9th and Wells.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are diseases that are spread through anal, oral or vaginal intercourse. Sharing drug injection equipment can also transmit some STDs such as HIV and Hepatitis B. Common STDs include: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis A Virus (HAV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Herpes Simplex Virus (Herpes), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Human Papilloma Virus (Genital Warts), Molluscum Contagiosum, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), Pubic Lice, Scabies, Syphilis, and Trichomoniasis.
Some STDs are easily treated and some STDs stay with you for life. Other STDs are more of a nuisance than a health risk. Pubic lice, or `crabs,` for example, itch a lot but don`t do any permanent damage. If you get an infection and you want to know how serious it could be, talk with your health care provider. There are four serious health consequences of some STDs: § Blockage of the fallopian tubes which can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy § Pregnancy loss and increased newborn deaths caused by transmission of the infection to the infant during pregnancy and childbirth § Genital cancers for males and females § Enhanced transmission of HIV/AIDS Social and Psychological Consequences: The psychological impact of having a sexually transmitted disease can be severe. Some persons become depressed or anxious. They fear recurrent outbreaks, transmission to sex partners, and difficulties in developing new relationships. Fortunately, proper treatment and knowledge about the true risks can greatly lessen all these effects.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV kills specific white blood cells (T cells), which are an important part of our immune systems. Without treatment, HIV gradually destroys the body`s defenses against disease (it takes an average of 8-10 years), leaving it vulnerable to many infections and cancers. But treatment with antiretroviral drugs can slow or stop the harmful effects of retroviruses like HIV, so that many people with HIV are living longer, healthier lives.
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a medical condition resulting from HIV infection, usually after many years. By the time a person is given an AIDS diagnosis by a doctor, HIV has seriously damaged the body`s immune system. There are effective treatments to prevent, as well as treat, these serious illnesses.
HIV can be transmitted when blood, semen (including pre-seminal fluid or pre-cum), vaginal fluids, or breast milk from an infected person enters the body of an uninfected person. HIV must get into the bloodstream or body in order to cause infection. Transmission most often occurs during unprotected sex or during injection drug use when equipment is shared. An infected woman who becomes pregnant can transmit HIV to her baby during pregnancy or during birth, but this risk is significantly less if the woman takes antiretroviral drugs. She can also pass HIV to her newborn if she breastfeeds. Anyone infected with HIV can transmit it, whether or not they appear sick, have an AIDS diagnosis, or are successfully treating their infection with antiretroviral drugs. HIV is spread in the following ways: Unprotected anal, vaginal or oral sex HIV can enter the body during sex through the anus, vagina, opening at the end of the penis or mouth and through cuts, sores and abrasions on the skin. Unprotected anal and vaginal sex have the highest risk of infection. There are a growing number of reported cases where HIV has been transmitted during oral sex (mouth to genital contact), but oral sex is much less risky than anal or vaginal sex.

Anyone having unprotected sex (inserting or receiving partner) with an infected person is at risk of getting HIV. The person most at risk is the receiving partner. Heterosexually, women are at higher risk than men.

Blood exposure. Sharing needles or drug injection equipment can transmit HIV (and other viruses like hepatitis). After use, small amounts of blood can remain in the used needles, syringes, cookers, cottons, and water. This remaining blood can enter the body of the next user when any of these items are shared. If this blood is HIV infected, transmission can easily occur.

There is a very small but real risk of health care workers getting HIV from infected patients as a result of needle stick accidents or when blood gets into a worker`s open cut or a mucous membrane in their eyes, mouth or nose. The risk for health care workers is greatly reduced when universal precautions are carefully followed, such as safe disposal of sharps, wearing latex gloves, etc. Universal precautions also protect patients.

Very rarely in this country is HIV transmitted when receiving a blood transfusion, blood clotting factors, an organ or tissue transplant (the risk of acquiring HIV from a blood transfusion is approximately 1 in a million). Before 1985, there were no tests to screen blood and organ donations for HIV. Now, blood, organ and tissue banks extensively test all specimens for HIV and other blood-borne germs.

Mother to child If a woman is infected with HIV, she can give it to her baby during pregnancy, during birth, or by breastfeeding. Early in the epidemic, 25% (1 out of 4) of babies born to HIV-infected women in this country became infected with HIV. Now, in developed countries where early detection of HIV is possible, treatment with the latest antiretroviral medications can reduce this rate to about 1% (1 out of 100). All pregnant women should see a doctor, be tested for HIV, and if infected, obtain the best treatment.
Casual Contact. HIV is a fragile virus outside the body. It quickly becomes inactive when exposed to air, soap and common disinfectants such as bleach.

There is no risk of getting HIV from: donating blood, mosquito bites, toilet seats, shaking hands, hugging, sharing eating utensils or drinking containers, food or objects handled by people with HIV or AIDS, spending time in the same house, and business or public place with people who have HIV or AIDS
Anyone can get HIV if they have unprotected sex or share injection drug equipment with someone who is infected. The virus does not discriminate - it can infect males or females, babies, teens, adults or senior citizens. You cannot look at someone and know they have HIV. In fact, as many as 1 out of 3 people who have HIV (33%) have no idea they are infected.
The following populations are tested at the WCHD:

Anyone over the age of 12 considered at risk for HIV infections, sexually active individuals, those with current or history of STDs and their partners, men who have sex with men, injecting drug users, partners of men who have sex with men, partners of injecting drug users, those who present with an opportunistic infection, contacts (partners) of HIV positive individuals, and victims of sexual assault.

For an HIV appointment at the District Health Department, call 328-2470.

Everyone is eligible and encouraged to seek education and information regarding HIV and STDs. Educational services are offered free of charge.
Members of the community that access HIV and STD testing at the WCDHD are charged on a sliding fee scale, based on income. Charges are based on how much time is spent with the nurse and what testing is done.
HIV testing is available from a variety of resources in the community:

-Private health care provider

-Nevada Urban Indians 788-7600

-Planned Parenthood Mar Monte 688-5555

-Northern Nevada HOPES 786-4673
The best way to avoid HIV infection (and other blood-borne infections like hepatitis B and C) from injection drug use is to stop injecting drugs. Drug treatment can help. If treatment is not available or you cannot quit on your own, use a brand new sterile syringe and needle every time you inject or divide drugs. Do not share drug using "works" with anyone else. This includes needles, syringes, cookers, cottons, mixing and bleaching water, and all other supplies. If you do not have new clean equipment, thoroughly disinfect all drug use tools with bleach before re-use. It is also important to dispose of used works safely. Discarding needles in the trash, on the street, or flushing them down the toilet is dangerous.

Drug use (including use of alcohol) can impair judgment and decision-making. This can increase risk for HIV, especially if you have sex while high. High or not, you can successfully use condoms and clean injection works. Plan ahead, carry condoms and stick to your prevention plan. A person does not need a prescription to purchase syringes in Nevada. However, a pharmacist may refuse to sell to people based on their own judgment.
The only way to completely avoid the sexual transmission of HIV is to abstain from anal, oral and vaginal sexual.

If you choose to have sex, it is safest when you practice monogamy with an uninfected partner. Monogamy is when two people have sex only with each other.

For those with a new sex partner, both can abstain from sex, or use condoms every time during anal, vaginal and oral sex for at least 3 months and then get tested for HIV and other STDs. At that time, if both partners are HIV negative AND both partners are completely avoiding other risk behaviors (e.g., sharing needles or having other sex partners), then unprotected sex with each other is not a risk for HIV transmission.

For someone with an HIV positive partner or a partner who does not know his/her HIV status or multiple sexual partners, touching, dry kissing, body rubbing, and mutual masturbation are the safest sexual activities. However, simple, skin-to-skin touching can spread other STDs.

For any penetrative sex acts such as vaginal, anal or oral sex, condoms are highly effective at reducing the risk of HIV transmission when used consistently and correctly - every time, from beginning to end of each sex act.

For more information on condom use see the answer to the question, "Do condoms provide 100% protection from HIV?"
There are several types of HIV antibody tests used today. All are highly accurate at detecting HIV antibodies (HIV antibodies are specific proteins made in response to an HIV infection). After infection with HIV, however, it can take up to 3 months for enough HIV antibodies to develop to be detected by the test.

A negative HIV antibody test result means that a person does not have detectable HIV antibodies at the time of the test. Since it can take up to 3 months after HIV infection for enough antibodies to develop, a negative test result is reliable only if the person has not had any sexual or needle-sharing risk behavior (or other exposure to infectious body fluids) during the 3 months prior to testing. Some people with recent risk behavior will test HIV antibody negative, yet may have actually been infected during the previous 3 months. These people will be highly contagious and may easily transmit HIV to their sex and needle-sharing partners. A high proportion of HIV transmission may occur when people are unaware of their infection. Finally, a negative test result does not mean that a person is safe from future HIV infection. People who test HIV antibody negative are urged to continue to follow HIV prevention guidelines to avoid becoming infected. People who continue risk behaviors are advised to re-test at least every 6 months.

A positive HIV antibody test result means that HIV antibodies are present because the virus is present - the person is infected with HIV (with the exception of newborn babies who are born with their mothers` antibodies). A positive test does not mean the person has AIDS, although many HIV-positive people may develop AIDS in the future. Anyone who tests HIV-positive can transmit the virus to others, regardless of how long they have been infected, whether they have AIDS or other symptoms, or whether their HIV infection is being treated with antiretroviral drugs. It is extremely important that HIV-positive people follow HIV prevention guidelines, not only to protect their partners from getting HIV infection, but also to protect themselves from other germs that could cause HIV/AIDS-related disease. People at increased risk of HIV infection should NEVER donate blood, plasma, or other organs, or go to such facilities to be tested.
It can take up to 3 months after HIV infection for enough antibodies to develop, therefore a negative test result is reliable only if the person has not had any sexual or needle-sharing risk behavior (or other exposure to infectious body fluids) during the 3 months prior to testing. Some people with recent risk behavior will test HIV antibody negative, yet may have actually been infected during the previous 3 months. Every exposure pushes the window period out another months.
Condoms are not 100% effective at preventing HIV transmission. When used correctly and consistently, condoms are highly effective and reliable in reducing the risk of transmitting HIV and most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Condoms should be used EVERY TIME during sex when transmission of HIV (or other STDs) is possible. When condoms fail to work properly, it is most often because of improper and/or inconsistent use.

Condoms may not work as well against STDs spread through skin-to-skin touching, like herpes and genital warts, because condoms may not cover the infected areas.

Following these basic rules will reduce the already small chance of condom failure:

-Experiment with different condoms and practice putting them on before intercourse.

-Practice talking with your partner about your desire and intention to use condoms.

-Use latex (rubber) or polyurethane (plastic) condoms. Avoid "natural skin" condoms, which have tiny holes, which may allow HIV and other STDs to be transmitted.

-When using a male condom choose one that fits. Male condoms come in different sizes, shapes, and styles, but most condoms will fit most men.

-Another choice is the Reality condom, which is made of polyurethane and is designed to fit inside the woman`s vagina for vaginal sex, and the anus for anal sex. Use the directions from the manufacturer that come with Reality condoms.

-Open and handle condoms carefully. Never use a condom that is in a damaged package or is past its expiration date. Condoms should be stored loosely in a cool, dry place (not in your wallet or the glove compartment of your car) and kept where you can easily get them if you decide to have sex.

-To reduce friction that can cause breakage, use plenty of water-based lubricant on the outside of the male latex condom and a small amount on the inside at the tip. With the Reality condom use plenty of lubricant on both the inside and outside. Some condoms come with lubricant, but often there is not enough, so additional lubricant is recommended. Never use oil-based lubricants like Vaseline, hand cream, Crisco, or mineral oil with latex condoms. Oil-based lubricants can rapidly break down latex and allow the virus to pass through. Water-based lubricants include K-Y Jelly, Slippery stuff, ForPlay, Astroglide, ID Lubricants and most contraceptive jellies. These can be found in grocery or drug stores next to the condoms.

WARNING: Some lubricants contain nonoxynol 9, which can cause irritation. This irritation may increase the risk of HIV transmission. Don`t use nonoxynol 9 or products containing it!

-The male condom should be put on after erection and before any sexual touch. Remember that pre-cum is also infected with HIV. The Reality condom should go in before sex - it can be inserted up to 8 hours before use. Never use the Reality and the male condoms together or two male condoms at the same time.

-Some male condoms have a reservoir tip; some don`t. In either case, the tip of the condom should be squeezed while rolling it down onto the penis in order to leave an airless pocket to collect semen. If the penis is natural and has a foreskin, try pulling back the foreskin before unrolling the condom all the way down to the base of the penis. Some men don`t like to pull back the foreskin because they`ve found that the condom slides off when the foreskin is pulled back. If you have trouble with this, consider keeping the foreskin down before putting on the condom or try using a Reality condom with your partner.

-After intercourse, withdraw the penis while still erect, holding the base of the condom to prevent it from slipping off or spilling semen. Remove the condom and wash the penis with soap and water.

-Use a condom only once and dispose of it in the garbage; do not flush condoms down the toilet. Never reuse a condom.

-Use a condom EVERY TIME during sex when transmission or acquisition of HIV is possible.
Between 50-90% of people with new HIV infections have mild to severe "flu-like" symptoms 2 weeks to 3 months from the time of HIV exposure. Others do not have any symptoms. In general, symptoms are not a reliable way to tell if someone has been infected with HIV; the only way to know for sure is to get tested. Many of the symptoms of early HIV infection are the same as for other, less serious illnesses. People who may have been exposed to HIV should see a doctor promptly if the following symptoms occur within 3 months of the exposure: -A persistent fever of over 101 degrees that lasts more than 2 days without a known cause -Constant tiredness -Night sweats that soak your pajamas or sheets -A persistent rash of unknown cause -Persistent swollen glands (lumps under the skin) which occur in several places at once (especially the neck, armpits and groin) -Sore throat
Not at this time. Medical providers have become much better at identifying, monitoring, and treating HIV infection and AIDS. In 1995, a new class of drugs known as protease inhibitors became available. These new medications, used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs, have dramatically improved the health and quality of life for many people living with HIV/AIDS. While there is not currently a cure or vaccine for HIV/AIDS, there are many things that people living with HIV/AIDS can do to remain healthy and to live longer. The first step for anyone who has HIV infection is to see a knowledgeable, experienced medical provider. This provider will be able to assess and monitor the infection, and, if appropriate, prescribe antiretroviral drugs. People at increased risk for HIV infection need to be tested for HIV antibodies every 3-6 months. This way they can seek medical care at the earliest possible opportunity if they become infected with HIV. Early detection can also reduce the chance of HIV transmission when people are most infectious. Although medical care and drugs are expensive, programs exist to ensure that people with HIV infection and AIDS can get the treatment and care they need.
All of the nurses in the Teen Health Mall and Family Planning clinic are female.
· We do accept some insurance plans. · We accept Medicaid, but not NevadaCare or Health Plan of Nevada.
Yes. We have staff that speak Spanish and interpret in the clinic. We also have a telephone interpreting service that can assist with interpretation in many other languages.
The length of time that it takes varies. The longest wait is if you are a new client which can be a wait of up to 4 weeks.
  • We provide pregnancy testing and proof of pregnancy if your test is positive. We do not provide prenatal care services: however, we will tell you where to receive those services.
  • The Washoe Pregnancy Center provides prenatal care services on a sliding scale. Their phone number is (775) 982-5640.
If you take an Emergency Contraception (the Plan B pill) within 5 days of unprotected sex you can reduce your chance of pregnancy by 75%. You need to be seen by a nurse to receive this medication. Call the clinic ASAP to make an appointment. For weekend, holiday or evening Emergency Contraception providers in the local area dial 1-888-NOT-2-LATE
Yes. All appointments are Confidential.
Yes. There are Citifare bus stops close to the Health Department along routes 2 and 12.
Social Services has information on adoption.
Contact Sexual Assault Support Services Crisis Call Center at 784-8090 or 1-800-992-5757 and they will listen to you as well as give you information about resources in the community that may help.
See Teen Health Mall Cost of Services.
Hours for the Teen Health Mall are at http://www.washoecounty.us/health/cchs/thm.html#lah

Please call 328-2470 to schedule an appointment.

· If it is your first visit, or if your income has changed, please bring proof of family income. Please see Cost of Services. · If you are on medications, bring in your medications, or write down the names so a nurse can review them. This would also include any birth control pills that you did not receive from this clinic.
The Teen Health Mall offers family planning services to help you plan the size of your family. By using birth control methods a woman has more control over when she has children and how many children she has.
A Pap Smear is a test that looks for changes of the cells on the cervix. If you would like to know more, please see the Pap Smear information sheet.
The number to the office clinic is (775) 328-2470. The phones are answered between the hours of 9am - 12pm and 1pm - 4pm.
  • You will fill out paperwork.
  • An aide will obtain your weight and height, measure your blood pressure, and check your iron level (in some cases).
  • The Advanced Practitioner of Nursing will review your medical history and determine what services you need (birth control, STD testing etc.).
  • If you are interested in birth control you may get it on the day of your visit; however, in some instances you will need to return to receive your method of birth control.
  • You may or may not receive a pelvic exam (having a nurse look and feel inside your vagina) and Pap smear on your first visit. If you receive birth control you will need to have a pelvic exam within 3 months.
You can pay for your visit on the day that you receive services, or we can put you on a payment plan.
The West End Women`s Medical Group provides abortion services. The phone number is 827-0616.
The Health Department is located at the corner of 9th Street and Wells Ave., just off the freeway and next to the fairgrounds. The address is 1001 East 9th Street. If you are traveling North on Wells, the entrance to the clinic is the first right (into the parking lot) after passing 9th Street. You can enter the door marked clinic services.
The Pill is a medication that is taken daily to prevent pregnancy. It contains two types of hormones called estrogen and progesterone. The hormones in the Pill are similar to those naturally made in women`s bodies.
The Pill needs to be taken daily for it to be fully effective. By taking the Pill at the same time each day, you can best maintain the level of hormones in the body necessary to prevent pregnancy.
There are several ways to begin the Pill. One way is to take your first Pill on the first Sunday after your period starts. If your period starts on Sunday, take your first pill that day. Another way to start your pills on the first day of your period. If the nurse believes you are unlikely to be pregnant, she may tell you to start right away.

After finishing your first pack of pills immediately start the next pack. Do not skip any days between packages. You may be on your period when you start your next pack.
If the Pill is started on the first day of the period, it is effective immediately. If the Pill is not started on the first day of the period, another method of birth control (like condoms) is needed for one week (7 days).
The primary way in which the hormones in the Pill work is to stop the ovaries from releasing eggs. They can also cause the cervical mucus to become thick so that it is hard for sperm to reach an egg, and can prevent implantation.
The Pill is most effective when it is taken exactly as directed (taken every day at about the same time). Approximately 3 out of every 100 women who take the Pill for one year will become pregnant while using it.
After stopping the Pill, it normally takes women two months before they can get pregnant, although some women get pregnant right away.
The Pill is usually not recommended for nursing mothers. A similar medication referred to as the “Minipill” is like the Pill, but has less hormones. It is recommended for use while breastfeeding.
  1. One missed pill – take the pill as soon as you remember and then take the next pill at your regular time (this means that you may have to take 2 pills in one day). * Use a back up method (like condoms) for 7 days if you miss the first pill of package.
  2. Two missed pills – Take two pills on the day you remember and two pills the next day. After that continue to take pills as normal (one each day). * Use a back up method (like condoms) for 7 days
  3. If you miss two or more pills in the third week of the pack, or three pills at any time of the month call the clinic. Until you talk to a nurse continue to take your pills and use a back-up method of birth control (like condoms).
In addition to being very effective and convenient, it may provide other benefits such as:
  • Decreasing your risk of ovarian and uterine cancer
  • Regular periods with less bleeding and cramping
  • Less anemia (low iron level in the blood)
  • Improvement in skin (less acne)
Side effects include breast tenderness, headache, nausea, dizziness, eye problems (difficulty with contact lenses), and a delay in having your period after you stop taking the Pill.

You may also have spotting between periods, very light or missed periods.

Weight changes may occur (increase or decrease in weight).

The Pill may cause dark patches on the skin of your face. These patches may continue even after you stop using the Pill and may become worse with sun exposure.

Other side effects are possible. Talk with your nurse for more information.
Women who use contraceptives with hormones (like the Pill) have an increased risk of blood clots or stroke. This risk is higher if you smoke and are over 35 years old.

Other risks of using the Pill include high blood pressure, liver problems (including liver tumors), and gall bladder disease.
  • Rifampin
  • St. John’s Wort
  • Possibly some antibiotics and anticonvulsants
Any woman who:
  • Is pregnant or suspects pregnancy
  • Heart disease or clotting disorders
  • Has serious liver disease or tumor
  • Has ever had breast cancer
  • Has had blood clots in the legs
  • Has undiagnosed, irregular vaginal bleeding
  • Migraine headaches with certain symptoms
  • Diabetes with involvement of the blood vessels
  • Disease of the heart valves with complications
  • Jaundice (yellowing) in pregnancy or when using hormones in the past
TB Test for Employment or School: (not available at Washoe County TB Clinic)

Call one of these medical clinics for an appointment:

  • Full-time enrolled UNR Students Only - UNR Student Health Center- Nell J. Redfield Building, Mail Stop 196, Reno, 784-6598
  • Call your private health care provider's office - ask them if they provide TB testing
  • St. Mary's Health & Wellness:
    1625 E. Prater Way, Ste.102, Sparks
    770-7100 for appointment
  • St. Mary's Clinics in Wal-Mart (no appointment necessary), open Monday-Friday: 8am-8pm, Saturday: 9am-7pm, Sunday: 10am-6pm:
    • 4855 Kietzke Lane, Reno
    • 5065 Pyramid Lake Rd., Sparks (clinics are open seven days a week)
  • Concentra Medical Centers (no appointment necessary):
    • 255 Glendale Ave, Sparks, 356-8181
    • 1530 East 6th St., Reno, 322-5757
  • HAWC Clinic - 1055 South Wells Ave, Ste 110, Reno 329-6300
  • Carson City Health Dept. Clinic (open to residents of all counties) - 900 E. Long St., Carson City 887-2190 Thursdays Only

Yes. The FDA has approved blood tests that can be used in place of the tuberculin skin test. The blood test requires only one visit to have your blood drawn, instead of the two visits needed to have a skin test placed and then read 48-72 hours later. It will not give a false positive result if a person has ever received BCG. (BCG is a vaccine given in many countries with high rates of TB).
You will need to have a chest x-ray. If your chest x-ray is normal, this means you have been infected with the TB bacteria but your immune system has "walled off" the bacteria and is protecting you from getting sick. Your doctor may recommend that you take medication to kill the bacteria so you will lower your risk of ever developing active TB disease. If your chest x-ray is abnormal and/or you have symptoms of TB disease your doctor will order additional tests to see if you have active disease. Sputum (phlegm) samples will be collected to see if you are contagious. Persons with TB of the lungs or throat are usually contagious until they have taken TB medication for several weeks.

BCG is a vaccine for tuberculosis. It is often given to infants and young children in countries with high rates of tuberculosis. It protects children and babies from developing severe forms of tuberculosis , like meningitis or miliary TB. It is not used routinely in the United States. Your skin test may be positive because of BCG vaccination.

However, a positive skin test is most likely due to infection with TB bacteria if:
  • You recently spent time with a person who has active TB disease
  • You are from an area of the world where active TB is very common (Africa, Latin America, Asia, Eastern Europe and Russia)
  • You spend time where TB disease is common (homeless shelters, migrant farm camps, drug treatment centers, health care clinics. jails or prisons)
  • You were vaccinated more than 5-10 years ago
  • Your skin test is greater than 20 mm
Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis). TB usually attack the lungs. Sometimes TB bacteria attack other parts of the body such as, the kidney, spine or brain. TB disease is a serious illness, but with proper treatment it can be cured.

Symptoms of TB disease can include any or all of the following:

  •  A cough lasting longer than 3 weeks
  • Trouble breathing
  • Pain in the chest
  • Feeling tired all of the time
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Poor appetite
  • Night sweats
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Coughing up blood

See your doctor if you have these symptoms.

When a person with active TB disease coughs or sneezes tiny droplets that contain TB bacteria are released into the air. If another person breathes air containing these droplets, they may become infected with the TB bacteria. However, not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick. As a result, two TB-related conditions exist: Latent TB infection (LTBI) and Active TB disease - both of which are treatable and curable.
A Person with Latent TB Infection
  • Usually has a skin test or a blood test result indicating TB infection*
  • Usually has a normal chest x-ray
  • Has TB bacteria in their body that are alive but inactive
  • Has no symptoms
  • Does not feel sick
  • Cannot spread TB to others
  • Should consider treatment for LTBI to stop active TB disease from spreading
A Person with Active TB Disease
  • Usually has a skin test or a blood test result indicating TB infection*
  • Usually has a normal chest x-ray
  • Has TB bacteria in their body
  • Usually feels sick and experiences symptoms
  • May spread TB to others
  • Needs treatment to cure the active TB disease
*A positive tuberculin skin test (TST) or a positive blood test only shows that you have been infected with the TB bacteria. Neither test can tell if you have TB disease, only if the TB bacteria are in your body.
Treating latent TB infection is essential to controlling and eliminating TB in the United States, because it substantially reduces the risk that the infection will progress to TB disease.

A person with TB infection can take medication called Isoniazid or Rifampin. This will kill the TB bacteria and greatly reduce the risk of TB disease from developing. Your doctor will decide which medicine is best for you. It is important to have health monitoring every month while taking either of these medications to be sure that you are not developing any harmful side effects. Your health care provider may order blood tests during your treatment.

There is now a shorter regimen available called the 12-dose regimen that became available in 2011. The 12-dose regimen reduces treatment from 270 daily doses over 9 months, to 12 once-weekly doses over 3 months. It is a combination regimen of isoniazid and rifapentine; two of the most effective medications available for TB treatment.

  • It is recommended for otherwise healthy people aged 12 and older who are at an increased risk of developing TB disease
  • Close patient monitoring and the utilization of Direct Observed Therapy (DOT) in which a health care worker observes a person taking the treatment and monitors side effects is required for each of the 12 doses
It takes a long time to kill all the TB bacteria. A person with TB disease typically must take 4 different medicines for 2 months:
  • Isoniazid
  • Rifampin
  • Pyrazinamide
  • Ethambutol
Then take Isoniazid and Rifampin for another 4-7 months depending on how much damage the bacteria have caused.

This treatment has been successful in treating TB disease for many years. In recent years, some TB bacteria strains have become resistant, (the medicines no longer kill the TB bacteria) to one or more of these drugs.

Multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB is resistant to the two strongest TB medicines, Rifampin and Isoniazid. The most common cause of drug resistance occurs when TB medications are not taken long enough and/or in the right amounts. Drug resistant TB is much more difficult and expensive to successfully treat. One case of multi-drug resistant TB can cost more than $1 million to treat. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention urges all health care practitioners to use directly observed therapy (DOT) in the treatment of tuberculosis.
To increase the success of TB disease treatment and decrease the risk of drug resistance, a health care worker observes each dose of TB medication taken.

Most persons believe they are able to take their medication without help. But 6 - 9 months is a long time to take antibiotics, especially after you start to feel better. Health care workers who provide DOT offer encouragement to complete treatment. People are human and humans are sometimes forgetful. DOT health care providers help people remember to take their medicine. They also check for harmful side effects and make sure the medicines are working as expected.
Some people are more likely to be infected with the latent form of TB. These include:
  • persons who were born in a foreign country with high rates of TB
  • persons who have lived in a foreign country with high rates of TB
  • persons who have spent time with someone with active TB disease
  • persons who live or spend a lot of time in crowded places
Some people who are infected with latent TB have a greater risk of progressing to active TB disease. These include:
  • persons who became infected with TB in the last 2 years
  • children under 5 years of age
  • new immigrants from countries with high rates of TB - persons who have been in the United States for less than 5 years
  • persons with weakened immune systems
  • persons with certain kinds of lung disease, such as silicosis
  • persons with diabetes
  • persons who have had stomach or bowel surgery
  • persons who take certain medications for arthritis
  • persons who take prednisone or other steroids
  • persons who have had cancer of the head, neck or leukemia
  • persons with end stage renal disease
  • persons who are extremely underweight (10% or more below ideal body weight)
  • persons with an abnormal chest x-ray suggestive of old healed TB disease
  • persons who had TB disease in the past but did not receive adequate treatment
  • persons with HIV infection. Persons with HIV infection have the greatest risk of progressing to active TB disease.

The Washoe County District Health Department`s Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Program staff welcomes questions about tuberculosis. They can be reached at 775-785-4785.
There are many informative websites available:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov/tb
American Lung Association - www.lungusa.org
Stop TB partnership - www.stoptb.org
National Prevention Information Network - www.cdcnpin.org

A vasectomy is a sterilization operation for men. This means that after the operation a man cannot get a woman pregnant.
A vasectomy is a permanent operation. Some doctors try to undo a vasectomy with surgery, but it is expensive and many times does not work. Make sure that you do not want to father any more children before you have a vasectomy.
Yes, there are several temporary ways to prevent pregnancy. A man can use a condom or a woman can use methods like birth control pills, the Depo shot, the patch, an IUD as well as others. If you would like more information about these and other temporary ways to prevent pregnancy, talk to your health care provider.
A vasectomy is done in a doctor’s office or clinic. The doctor numbs the area and then makes a small cut in the scrotum (skin around the testicles) to get to the tubes that carry the sperm (sperm ducts). The doctor then closes off the sperm ducts so that sperm cannot get into the semen (what comes out during an orgasm). When there are no sperm in the semen, you cannot cause a pregnancy.

Illustration showing the location of the sperm duct (tube), seminal vesicle (where sperm is stored), the closed off tube of a vasectomy, the testicle, and the scrotum.
With a vasectomy you don’t have to worry about making a woman pregnant and you don’t have to use a temporary method of family planning again (like birth control pills for women, condoms to prevent pregnancy, etc). However, the procedure will not protect you against STDs. A condom is still the best method for STD prevention.
Vasectomy is a safe and simple operation, but there is a small chance you could have problems afterwards. Some of the problems include:
  • You may have temporary swelling around the area of the skin that was cut.
  • You may have bruising that usually goes away on its own.
  • You may get an infection on the skin or inside the scrotum.
  • The operation may not make you sterile. A small number of men who have the operation will still be able to get a woman pregnant. The vasectomy is more than 99% effective.
Yes. A vasectomy will not alter your sex drive. Your erections and orgasms will be the same. You will have the same amount of ejaculate (semen), but it will not contain sperm.
The residential recycling program in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County is voluntary. You must contact Waste Management Inc., at 329-8822 to request recycling bins. They will be delivered to your home. Also, don’t forget to request a pickup schedule for recycled items. Your pickup day may be different that the regular garbage pickup.
At this time, there is not a green waste program. However, you can build a compost pile from yard wastes that will provide nourishment and fertilizer for the garden and landscape.

For more information on how to construct a compost pile, consult your local nursery or the Master Gardener Program through the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension Office at 784-4848.
In Washoe County, there are several ways to dispose of household paint. First, remove the lids from the paint cans and let the contents dry to a solid form. If there is more than ½ inch of paint, add kitty litter to absorb it. When the material is solidified, you can dispose of it your household trash. Or, secondly, you may pour the paint directly on to plastic tarps being careful not to spill on to the ground; let it harden, and then roll up the tarps and place in your household trash.

The other option is to take the paint to Clean Harbors Inc. in Sparks. For a fee, based on pounds, your paint will be disposed of properly. Contact Clean Harbors at 331-9400.
The best way to prevent this disposal dilemma is to not purchase products that contain hazardous materials or chemicals. However, if you cannot share the product or donate it for use by others, please take it to Clean Harbors Inc. in Sparks. For a small fee the leftover product will be disposed of in a safe manner, according to Nevada Environmental Laws. Contact Clean Harbors at 331-9400.
If you are a homeowner, you should first try to donate the unit or turn it in to one of the used computer retailers in the area. The last and least attractive alternative is to dispose of it in the trash. If you are a business, your computers cannot be landfilled!
Most oil recycling centers will accept up to five gallons of used oil free-of-charge. Many of the large auto parts retailers in Washoe County will take motor oil from local residents. Make sure when transporting the oil, that it is in a secured container and is free of contamination by lubricants, gasoline, or antifreeze.

In other Northern Nevada Counties, call the State of Nevada Recycling Hotline at 1-800-597-5865.
Contact the Nevada Small Business Development Center's "Business Environmental Program" at 1-800-882-3233, or 689-6699, or contact EPA for the free "Business Guide for Reducing Solid Waste" at www.epa.gov.
The term "examination" refers to the selection method used to rank all candidates for a particular classification. Applicants applying for employment with the Washoe County Merit System are required to go through an "examination" process. Depending upon the position for which you are applying, examinations may consist of written, oral, performance, physical agility tests, involve a rating of past experience and training, or be comprised of a combination of such tests.
The Department of Human Resources administers examinations to determine which applicants are the most qualified for a particular position. There is no single test; examinations are developed to suit duties and responsibilities of each job classification. The Department of Human Resources uses written and oral examinations, tests of physical ability, and demonstrations of practical skills as testing instruments. For some positions, the entire examination consists of a rating of education and experience as you describe them in your application.

Some positions are unclassified and outside of the merit system. Individuals selected for those positions serve at the pleasure of the hiring authority. A variety of selection instruments may be used in evaluating candidates for these types of positions.
The tentative examination content is described in Required Additional Information. Some jobs require a written test that may consist of short answer, multiple choice, true-false, or essay type questions that are directly related to the job. For example, do not be concerned about taking a spelling test if you are applying for a maintenance job; you will most likely be asked questions about plumbing, carpentry, painting, etc.

Not all of Washoe County`s positions require written tests. Some jobs may require a performance test where applicants must perform tasks similar to those performed on the job. For example, clerical applicants may take a typing test. For certain jobs, such as a Sheriff`s Deputy, a physical ability test is also required.

Another type of test is an oral exam, which reviews your qualifications, experience, education and other knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job. This type of test is still structured and scored by a panel, but it does give you the opportunity to express yourself, and to discuss what unique qualifications you bring to the position. It also gives you the opportunity to ask questions about the job.

The examination process may consist of one or any combination of these types of tests. You must successfully pass each portion of the examination in order to be considered. The passing score is determined by a statistical evaluation of the test scores. Applicants are notified of their test results by email. The Human Resources Department is always available to discuss any problems or questions you may have regarding the examination you have taken.

Applicants who meet the qualifications are generally scheduled to take the test at the same time. However, a large number of applicants may require more than one testing session. In such cases there is no possibility of rescheduling. However, if the recruitment is open continuously, applicants may scheduled in groups in the order of the date their applications are received.
If you have a disability which requires special testing accommodations, please contact the Department of Human Resources. Special testing accommodations will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Review the Required Additional Information which provides an approximate test date. After you have submitted your application and the Recruiting Analyst has determined that the minimum qualifications have been met, a letter will be emailed to you approximately one week before the examination notifying you of your test date, time and location.
You will be provided the location by email.
Test scores will be emailed to you within a few weeks of taking the examination. Test scores are not given out over the telephone or in person.
Washoe County has a 60- day test retake policy. This means that you may re-take an exam after 60 days, if that particular exam is being offered again. You can only test for a position when it is open for recruitment. We keep your most recent score, whether higher or lower. In some cases you are not required to retest, however, if this position is open again after 60 days, you are scheduled to take the same test, you will be notified and you may make the decision whether or not to retest.
Washoe County has over 300 different classifications of positions performing a wide variety of job duties. The County offers a comprehensive benefit package to full-time employees hired in authorized positions. Washoe County accepts applications only for positions for which we are actively recruiting.

Vacant firefighter positions are filled using an eligibility list. We do not accept applications for firefighter unless we are updating our eligibility listing through the open recruitment process. The open recruitment for firefighter is advertised through our online application system--check it frequently. Navigate to the Sierra Fire District webpage to learn more about the requirements for firefighter positions.

Sheriff`s Office vacancies are also advertised on the County`s online application system. To learn more about the job requirements for deputy sheriff recruit, navigate to the Sheriff`s Office webpage under Careers @ Washoe County.
Visit our online website to search for jobs that are currently available. A list of available positions can be viewed 24 hours a day at www.washoecounty.us/humanresources.
There is no sure method of knowing when a classification will be opened. Your best sources for up-to-date information is to go to the Job Opportunities web page at www.washoecounty.us/humanresources/careers/jobs.htm.
If you have additional questions after reviewing the job posting, please contact the Recruiting Analyst whose email address and telephone number is listed on the job information.
No. Washoe County only accepts online application for current open vacancies. There are often supplemental questionnaires, written essay exams, or special instructions that go with specific job postings. If an application is submitted without these attachments, you may be disqualified from the exam process.
Applications are accepted via our online application system. Using the Internet, you may go to http://careers.washoecounty.us to register with our online application system. Once you have registered, you may apply for any of the open positions listed on the Job Opportunities page--simply click on `Apply Online` and apply for the position via the Internet.

Kiosks are set up in the Human Resources lobby for those without Internet access.
If a typing or data entry certificate is required for a specific job, a typing voucher and a listing of authorized agencies will be provided to you. You must contact one of the authorized agencies listed to schedule your test. Typing/data entry certificates will only be accepted from the agencies listed.
Some recruitments are "open until further notice," meaning official Washoe County employment applications will be taken until further notice as no deadline has been set. Recruitments are announced this way when it is unknown how long it will take to obtain a sufficient number of applications.

Jobs experiencing frequent turnover also necessitate leaving a recruitment open to accept applications continuously. Other recruitments have a closing date on the announcement, which means there is a deadline for filing applications. This procedure is followed when it is certain that a sufficient number of applications will be received within a specified time. It is important to note this information when applying in order to submit your official application before the deadline. In either case, it is in your best interest to return application materials promptly.
As with any open position, once a closing date (deadline) has passed, no applications will be accepted. Please continue to visit the Job Opportunities page and apply for new jobs as they become available.
You will be notified via email within a few weeks of the closing date of the job posting notifying you that: A) you have met the qualifications and you are proceeding to the examination, or B) your application did not indicate that you have the necessary qualifications for the job. The Department of Human Resources generally will not call you.

If you believe that the Department of Human Resources has failed to correctly evaluate your qualifications, you may file a request for review within 5 working days of the notification date.

Applications are required of each person applying for a position. It is likely that you may have acquired additional skills, experience and education since you originally applied that should be considered. In addition, completing an online application ensures your qualifications and personal information will be documented and ensures accurate applicant tracking information for every position.
Visit the Washoe County School District`s web site at http://www.washoe.k12.nv.us.
Please log into the online application system using the link listed below. Washoe County employees: your log in information is the same as your network log in. For non county applicants: your login information is the user id and password you created when you applied online. Once you log in, you may ONLY update your contact information (address, city, state, zip code, phone number and email address).

Please note: You will be able to view the list of positions you have previously applied for and your online applications, however, you may not make any changes to the online application if the position you applied for is no longer open online.

https://recruit.washoecounty.us/webdynpro/dispatcher/local/ApplicantPortal/ApplicantPortal

Washoe County Employee Benefits is located within the Human Resources Department at 1001 Ninth Street in Building A, and the main line is 328-2081. Contact info for the benefits team:

• Kristie Harmon, Benefits Specialist, 328-2079, kharmon@washoecounty.us

• Karen Jeffers, Benefits Analyst, 328-2076, kjeffers@washoecounty.us

• Laura Daniels, Office Support Specialist, 328-3642, ldaniels@washoecounty.us

• Sue Sabourin, Benefits Manager, 328-2088, ssabourin@washoecounty.us

Coverage becomes effective on the 91st day of continuous full-time or permanent part-time employment. Employees must complete an Enrollment Form within 31 days of their effective date. If the Enrollment Form is not completed on a timely basis, the employee will be enrolled with employee-only coverage in the Self-funded PPO medical plan as of his/her effective date and will not be allowed to change plans until the ensuing Open Enrollment period.
Washoe County pays 100% of the employee premium; however, you should refer to your specific collective bargaining unit as they may have negotiated separate employee contributions to the health fund. Through collective bargaining, the County has also agreed to pay 50% of the enrolled dependent’s premium. Employees are responsible for the remaining premium for their enrolled dependents.
Current insurance rates are posted on the Washoe County Human Resources public website and can be found under the Benefits section http://www.washoecounty.us/humanresources/benefits/health/medical.htm).
Every year, mid-May through mid-June, the County holds an Open Enrollment period during which time you can make any changes to your health insurance plan, without the restriction of the change having to be a qualifying event. This is the perfect opportunity to review all your health insurance options to make sure you and your family are appropriately covered.
You may change health plans only during the annual Open Enrollment period, or in the case of a qualifying event. You must complete an Enrollment Form in its entirety to change your choice of health plans, and the completed and signed form must be received in Human Resources before the close of the Open Enrollment period. Forms can be obtained from your HR representative or via the Human Resources website.
If you do not complete an Enrollment Form, your current health plan will remain in effect with the newly negotiated plan design changes. However, you are strongly encouraged to attend one of the Open Enrollment meetings to be sure you understand the changes occurring July 1.
If you are on the Self-funded Plan, go to www.uhnppo.com. Enter your provider’s name and click search. Or you may contact Universal Health Care directly at 775-356-1159.

If you are on the HMO, to go www.hometownhealth.com. Click on provider directory, choose HMO Plan, enter the provider’s name and click search. Or you may contact Hometown Health Customer Service at 775-982-3232.
If you are on the HMO; yes, you must receive care only from the physicians, hospitals and other health care providers that have contracted to provide services for Hometown Health.

If you are on the Self-funded PPO, you will receive a better rate if you use contracted providers, but you do have flexibility.
The out-of-pocket maximum is based on a calendar year; however, plan design changes are effective at the beginning of the fiscal year (July 1, 2011). In the case where an individual on the PPO Plan has met the existing $1,500 maximum (by June 30, 2011), they would be responsible for paying 20% of new charges up to another $1,500 before the insurance would pay 100% of covered charges.

Note: The out-of-pocket maximum does not include your deductible or co-payments.
The GAP Plan was first introduced last fiscal year in conjunction with the HMO Plan only. Washoe County pays the cost of the GAP plan for all employees enrolled in the HMO; however, it is elective coverage for dependents. Provided by American Fidelity, the GAP Plan is designed to reimburse the following out-of-pocket expenses up to:

• $1,000 per inpatient hospital confinement

• $200 for certain outpatient services

• $25 for non-routine doctors visits (limit of $125 per family per year)
Yes. By visiting one of the websites below, you can identify which drugs are available on your specific plan, how much they cost, and the applicable co-payment:

• Self-funded PPO: www.catalystrx.com. Or contact Catalyst Rx directly at 888-896-4600

• Hometown Health HMO: www.hometownhealth.com. Or Contact Hometown Health directly at 775-982-3232.
• Self-funded PPO: Saint Mary’s, Northern Nevada Medical Center and Carson-Tahoe

• Hometown Health’s HMO: Renown Regional Medical Center
Complete a new Enrollment Form. New Enrollment Forms replace all previous forms, so please be sure to complete in its entirety.

Under the new Health Care Reform Bill, you may cover your child/children to age 26 if they are not eligible for coverage under another employer-sponsored group health program. They do not have to be a full-time student, living with you, and/or dependent upon your financial support.
You may add your new baby within 31 days of their birth by submitting a new Enrollment Form and a copy of the live birth confirmation to Human Resources.
As a result of the Health Care Reform Act, dependent children may now continue on your health insurance until age 26.
Yes, this is considered a “qualifying event” and the employee must add the dependent(s) within 31 days of the loss of coverage. An employee must submit an updated Enrollment Form and documentation from the previous insurance company that indicates the last day of coverage to Human Resources.
Yes, this is considered a “qualifying event” and the employee must remove the dependent(s) within 31 days of the effective date of the new insurance. An employee must submit an updated Enrollment Form and documentation from the spouse’s new employer that indicates the effective date of his/her coverage to Human Resources.
Employees on the self-funded plan can contact CDS Group Health at 352-6900 to request new cards.

Employees on the HMO Plan can contact Hometown Health at 982-3232.
For a full description of services that meet the definition of preventative and routine medical care, please refer to your plan summary or contact your plan administrator directly.

For Self-funded PPO participants: CDS Customer Service (775-352-6900).

For those on the HMO through Hometown Health: HHP Customer Service (775-982-3232).
Washoe County provides employees and retirees enrolled in the Health Benefits Program $20,000 life insurance until the age of 65. Upon age 65, the benefit drops to $13,000 and at age 70 it drops once more to $7,000. In addition, there is a $1,000 dependent life insurance for those dependents enrolled in the health benefits. The life insurance is payable to the employee in the event of the dependent’s death. An employee may purchase additional life insurance through Western Insurance Specialties and the premium for this benefit is deducted every pay period on a pre-tax basis.
No. You may list anyone you want; however, if you list a minor child, the benefit does not get distributed until that minor turns 18.
The Medicare Advantage Plan was added to the Washoe County Health Benefits Program last fiscal year. The coverage is provided through Senior Care Plus, and is available only to retirees and their dependents with both Medicare parts A and B. This plan is a good option for those retirees who are receiving only a partial premium benefit from Washoe County and who are covering dependents.
We strongly encourage all employees to attend Open Enrollment meetings which are scheduled each year mid-May through mid-June. If for some reason you cannot attend one of these informative meetings, you may contact Human Resources at 328-2081 to set up an appointment with our Benefits Specialist, Kristie Harmon.
You will still need to complete a new application/enrollment form for the Retiree Health Benefits Program. If you do not submit a new application, the assumption will be made that you do not wish to enroll in the Program and your health insurance will terminate as of your last day of employment with Washoe County.
Yes. Retirement is considered a qualifying life event so you are able to change health plans at this time. You may also change plans during any Open Enrollment period (mid-May to mid-June).
If you are starting your new life as a retiree outside of Washoe County, you will qualify only for the self-funded PPO plan since the HMO network consists of local providers only. Please update your contact information with Health Benefits any time you change your address, and remember that if you move out of the local area in the future, it may be necessary to change your choice of health plans.
Although dental insurance is an optional coverage and not part of your Retiree Health Benefit, you may purchase this coverage for yourself and your dependents at your cost. The monthly premiums are listed on the Retiree Rate Sheet.
You will receive your pension check through PERS at the end of each month, and premiums are deducted one month in advance. So the deduction coming out of January’s PERS check is for February’s premium; February’s deduction pays for March’s premium, etc. When you first retiree, you will be responsible for submitting your portion of your first month’s insurance premium to Human Resources along with the completed Retiree Health Benefits application. The exact amounts (which are sometimes pro-rated) will be calculated for you by our Benefits Specialist.
You may delete a dependent at this time since the Retiree Plans are not subject to the Section 125 Internal Revenue Code restrictions (premiums are now post-tax); however, dependents can be added only if there is a qualifying event. (You may add or delete dependents for any reason during the annual Open Enrollment period which runs from mid-May to mid-June for a July 1 effective date.)
If you are on the Self-funded Plan, go to www.uhnppo.com. Enter your provider’s name and click search. Or you may contact Universal Health Care directly at 775-356-1159.

If you are on the HMO, go to www.hometownhealth.com. Click on provider directory, choose HMO Plan, enter the provider’s name and click search. Or you may contact Hometown Health Customer Service at 775-982-3232.
The Medicare Advantage Plan was added to the Washoe County Health Benefits Program in FY 10/11. The coverage is provided through Senior Care Plus, and is available only to those retirees and their dependents with both Medicare parts A and B. This HMO plan is a great option for those retirees who are receiving only a partial premium benefit from Washoe County and who are covering dependents. Please note that enrollment occurs only on the first of the month.
You can contact the Enrollment Specialist at Senior Care Plus, Christopher Gourlay, at 775-982-3134.
The GAP Plan was first introduced in FY 10/11 and is available in conjunction with the HMO Plan only. Provided by American Fidelity, the GAP Plan is designed to reimburse the following out-of-pocket expenses up to:

• $1,000 per inpatient hospital confinement

• $200 for certain outpatient services

• $25 for non-routine doctors visits (limit of $125 per family per year)
Yes. By visiting one of the websites below, you can identify which drugs are available on your specific plan, how much they cost, and the applicable co-payment:

• Self-funded PPO: www.catalystrx.com, or call 888-896-4600

• Hometown Health HMO: www.hometownhealth.com, or call 775-982-3232.
If you are on the HMO; yes, you must receive care only from the physicians, hospitals and other health care providers that have contracted to provide services for Hometown Health.

If you are on the Self-funded PPO, you will receive a better rate if you use contracted providers, but you do have flexibility. If you permanently reside more than 50 miles from a PPO provider, you may use the doctor of your choice and it will be covered at the usual and customary allowance.
Yes, this benefit is available up to four months after your retirement date. You can contact ACI for assistance at 775-348-1700.
Separate checks are not issued for pay-offs; you will receive your final check on a normal payday.
Washoe County is a biweekly payer; all checks are taxed biweekly. Please consult your tax advisor for advice.
Yes. You will need to contact our local Hartford representative, Sharon Brannon (775-225-2464) for the change form which must then be forwarded to Payroll at least ten days prior to your retirement.
Yes, but you need to contact the applicable company directly and tell them you wish to be billed at home. (AFLAC 775-322-9393; American Fidelity 775-829-1313; Western Insurance 775-826-2333).
If you want to stop any voluntary deductions prior to your last check please notify the Comptroller’s (Payroll) in writing: Office of the Comptroller - Payroll, P.O. Box 11130, Reno, NV 89520-0027 or by e-mail ttapia@washoecounty.us.

Submit changes to Payroll as soon as possible; they need at least ten days prior to your retirement date to insure your requested changes can be made.
Washoe County does not issue your retirement checks. Your retirement checks are issued by PERS, please contact PERS at 775-687-4200 with questions.
As vacancies occur, the Department of Human Resources refers a list of eligible candidates to a hiring department. Interview notices may be emailed to the eligible candidates requesting that they contact the department to schedule an interview.
Names are ranked on the eligible list in score order.
There are some ways your rank may change. First of all, if the examination is open continuous, new names will be added to the list each time the tests are administered. If another applicant scores higher than you, this will lower your rank. However, it is also possible for you to advance higher on the eligible list as others are hired, find other jobs, or lose interest.
Most lists remain active for at least 1 year, but no longer than 3 years. If a list is being replaced you may be notified to reapply and retest.
If you are a registered user, you can access and update your personal information by going to the confirmation email you received when you applied online and log on to the link provided. You may update your address, telephone number, email address on this page. You will NOT be able to change application information unless the recruitment is still open.

Since most of the information we will send you will require you to respond immediately, it is very important to keep this information up-to-date.
1. Go to the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/ - click on the "register online" link - Complete the information.

TIP: Your SAP number is your employee/personnel number and can be found on your payroll stub.

2. Click on the Process button.

3. A screen will appear that announces you were successful!
You do not need to login to the Learning Center to browse classes. On the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/, mouse over the Training Tab, Learning Center and click on Upcoming Classes or Browse The Catalog.

Upcoming Classes shows classes being offered within the next 90 days. Select a class to view date, time, location, class description and how many seats are available as well as the option to register for the class.

Browse the Catalog has the options of viewing an alphabetical listing of the classes or classes listed by category.

The alphabetical listing shows all of the classes that may be offered by the Learning Center. Click on a class and you will be given a description of the class and a listing of the sessions available including the date, time, and how many seats are available as well as the option to register for the class. If there is no class currently being offered, it will show "No Session". There are Technology Training classes that will show contact information if you have a specific question.

The "Courses, by Category" lists classes required to fulfill certain certificate programs and classes that will support the development of a particular core competency.



In the event you have forgotten your User ID and/or Password, there is a login lookup by full email address available on the WC Learning Center login page. An auto-generated email will be sent with your login information.

If you do not receive an email within 5 minutes, please contact HR Training at 328-3649 or email: hrtraining@washoecounty.us.
1. On the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/, enter your User ID and password.

2. Mouse over the Training Tab, Learning Center and click on Upcoming Classes.

3. Click on a class from the list, click on the "Register Me" button.

4. You will receive an auto generated email confirming you have successfully registered for the class.

1. On the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/, enter your User ID and password.

2. Click on the "View your student information" link.

3. Under the Current Courses tab, click on the class you wish to drop.

4. Click on the "Drop Me" button.

5. You will receive an auto generated email confirming you have successfully dropped the class.
1. On the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/, enter your User ID and password.

2. Click on the "Edit your settings" link.

3. Update your information. If you are updating your department and your department has divisions, select the new division under the department from the drop down list and it will update the department as well as the division. If your department doesn't have division, select the department from the drop down list.

4. Click the "Process" button.
1. On the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/, enter your User ID and password.

2. Click on the "View your student information" link.

3. Click on the "View Transcript". You may print directly from this page.

4. To create an electronic copy of your transcript, highlight the page and save it in Word.

5. You may open each class and have the full class description show on your transcript.
1. On the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/, enter your User ID and password.

2. Click on the "View your student information" link.

3. Under Additional Pages: click on the "Add 3rd Party Courses".

4. Fill out the information including checking the "Completed" box.

5. Click the "Process" box.
1. On the Flipside/Intranet http://eww/, enter your User ID and password.

2. Click on the "View your student information" link.

3. Under Additional Pages: click on the "Add 3rd Party Courses".

4. Select the class you want to edit from the list above Choose Course. Make your edits.

5. Click the "Process" box.
1. Upon completion of courses listed for each program, you may request your completion certificate by providing a copy of the completed index page from the EPS certificate program binder. You may email it to hrtraining@washoecounty.us, fax it to 328-6119 or send it interoffice mail to HR Training.

2. You will receive an email invitation to attend the next EPS Certificate Presentation on the 4th Tuesday of each month BCC meeting. You will be awarded a certificate by the Washoe County Board of County Commissioners at this public meeting.
The Learning Center offers all the classes in the certificate programs at least once a year. Many classes are offered 2 times a year.

If there is a class you need to complete a certificate program and haven't seen it on the schedule, contact hrtraining@washoecounty.us.
It sounds like your pop-up blocker is on and you will need to disable that for the application process to work.

If you need assistance on how to disable this you can go to this site and it will give you the directions for your browser on how to change your settings. http://www.co.washoe.nv.us/humanresources/careers/faqs/apps/online/blocker.htm

Once you have made this change, you should be able to click on the links and begin applying. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office via email at careers@washoecounty.us or telephone at 775-328-2081.
The online application process has four steps: (1) Reviewing the job listing and selecting "Apply Online" for the position of interest. (2) Registering by creating a log on user ID and password. This will enable you to come back and apply for additional positions as well as check on the status of a position. (3) Creating, completing, certifying and submitting your online application. (4) Application confirmation received in the inbox of your registered email address that will include your Applicant ID number.

It's important that you read and follow all instructions carefully. Review the Job Opportunities web page to find any open positions that interests you. Once you identify an open position of interest, click on the job title to bring up the Job Announcement, click on the Required Additional Information link for exam and specific requirements for the position. Review the details and if you meet the qualifications and would like to apply to the posting, click on the associated link that says "Apply Online". This will begin the application process. Once the application is completed, you will receive a confirmation number via email. This email confirms that we received your application for this position.

Be sure to remember your user ID and password so you can log back on to the system at a future time. You should make a note of these and keep it handy. You should NOT create a second account. If you forget your user ID and/or password, please contact careers@washoecounty.us.

There are several ways you can still get access to our online application system:

PCs located in the Human Resources Department`s main lobby (located in the Administration Building) at the Washoe County Complex, 1001 East Ninth Street, Suite 220, Reno 89512 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Washoe County Public Libraries

Nevada Job Connect Centers.

Public community colleges and universities.

Internet cafes.
The time it takes depends on several factors including the amount of work experience and education you have to enter, how fast you can type, whether you copy and paste information, etc. You should allow 20-45 minutes for the total process. However, you can speed up the process by collecting important information about previous work experience, education, certifications, etc. before you start creating your application. If you find you are missing a piece of information requested on the application, you may be able to skip the field and go back later to complete it. If you decide to do this, it is important that you return and complete the missing information BEFORE you submit your application for a specific job opening. The information on your application when you apply will be used to evaluate your qualifications for the job opening for which you apply--make sure it is accurate and contains all information requested as well as any specific attachments that are required.
There are a number of advantages to using the new online application system. Some of these include: The ability to save your application form online for re-use on future job openings; The ability to update your online application with specific skills and experience related to the posting; The ability to access and review the job requirements while completing the application; The ability to submit your application immediately and directly to the County, minimizing the risk of missing a deadline or loss of the application; The closing date (deadline) has been extended from close of business at 5:00 pm until midnight --giving you extra time to apply. The online application saves time when you want to apply for multiple jobs at one time, or apply for several positions throughout the year; The ability to keep track of the status of your application and the recruitment process; The ability to learn about job openings and apply for positions at any time and from any computer with access to the web.
Now that we have transitioned to the online system, all applications need to be completed using the online application system.
Yes, once you have completed your online application through our online application system, you can apply to multiple positions that are currently open and on the Job Opportunities web page. Even days or weeks later, all you have to do to apply for another job is to log back on to the online application system and apply--the application you originally submitted will still be in the system available for you to update and/or submit for another job opening.
After submitting your application, you will have the option to view and print your completed application by selecting `Print Preview` at the bottom of the application form. Selecting the `Print Preview` button will redirect you to the print preview page. Using the tool bar at the top of your web browser, click on File | Print (or use Ctrl+P) and follow the prompts on the screen to print . Tip: To optimally print the application, ensure that left and right margins are set to 0.2 by going to File | Page Setup.

To return to the application form, select the `Cancel Print Preview` button (Do NOT use your web broswer `Back` button). You will be redirected back and will be able to continue to `Submit Application`.
No. The system requires that you complete all of the required fields notated with a red asterisk in order for the application to be submitted. It is recommended that you schedule enough time to complete the application in one session as the system will time-out after 45 minutes of inactivity.
HR staff members are available to help applicants get started and to answer questions about the online application system for applicants. Visit the Human Resources Department at the Washoe County Complex, Administration Building, on 1001 E. Ninth Street, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm or call 775-328-2081.
Applicants can complete their applications online at www.washoecounty.us/humanresources from any computer with Internet access. After the closing date, applications will be screened by the recruitment staff and all applicants will be notified by email of their results. You may check the status of your application after the closing date by visiting our online application system.
Be sure you are using either Internet Explorer 8 or below (newest versions of Internet Explorer 9 and above are not supported), or Firefox 4.0 or lower (newest versions 4 and 5 are not supported). You may e-mail careers@washoecounty.us with the specific problem and someone from Applicant Support will assist you. In the event of an approaching deadline, computers are available at the Human Resources Department (Washoe County Complex, E. Ninth Street). Washoe County employees can access the online system through their desktop computer or through any of the available kiosks. In addition, computers are available at most worksites with the authorization of a supervisor.
Be sure you are using one of the supported versions of Internet Explorer or Firefox. Newest versions Internet Explorer 9 and above are not supported. Newest versions of Firefox 4 and 5 and above are not supported. Also, under your browser internet options, you need to have cookies and javascript "enabled." If you are still having difficulties e-mail us at careers@washoecounty.us with the specific problem and someone from Applicant Support will assist you.
The benefits of the online process to applicants, hiring departments and the County far outweigh the advantages of staying with our manual application process.

The online process reduces the process time from when a job is listed to when applications are received thus reducing the time it takes to fill a position. It also reduces the redundant work of processing, printing, copying and distributing paper applications/resumes. It provides more consistent applicant tracking information and the ability to search and utilize applications on file.

Your application is on a secure web server and will be available to the Human Resources Department and the interviewer(s) for the specific job opening for which you apply. If the same position becomes available in a different department or with a different supervisor, your application may be reviewed for that opening by the responsible supervisor. Washoe County does not share its database with other companies or localities.
You must contact Washoe County Juvenile Services during normal business hours at 325-7800 and ask to speak with our warrant staff.
Due to confidentiality, police reports cannot be released by this department. You may however contact the District Attorney`s office at 328-3200 to request a copy.
complete visiting requirements can be found on the detention page
Court is held every business day. If you have lost your paperwork, contact your assigned probation officer. It is your responsibility to attend your court hearing. There are no excuses allowed for missing court.
Our Department offers assistance to parents through the McGee Center at 856-4600, or please see the McGee Center Referral form. You may fill out that form online and a Case Manager will contact you. There are also many resources available in the community. Resource List
Due to the confidential nature of our facility, tours are not available for the general public. Get further information about detention services.
Juvenile Services understands that raising children can be difficult. We want you to know that a priority response unit is available to help you and your family. For further assistance please contact 325-7938. However, if you refuse to pick up your child once they have be authorized for release, you will be charged $100.75 per day until the initial detention hearing.
The Department of Juvenile Services is unable to honor requests for release of juvenile records without a Court Order. If you are at least 18 years of age, you may petition the Family Court for the release of your legal history. Any other interested party over the age of 18 can also make the request. A Petition form and Court Order must be completed - please note that the Petition must be signed in the presence of a Notary (we have many Notaries in our office for your convenience). Upon completion of these documents, they will be sent to the Washoe County Court House at 1 South Sierra, 3rd floor. The Judge will then review the request, and if he/she agrees that the records should be released, the Court Order will be signed and returned to our office. Upon receipt of the signed Court Order, we will prepare the requested legal history and mail it or fax it. This process typically take two to three weeks.
Once a youth is arrested and detained, the parent/guardian is charged $30.00 a day until the initial detention hearing. Detention hearings occur within 24 hours each day Monday through Friday. There are no detention hearings on the weekend. Once the initial detention hearing has occurred and the youth remains in detention, the parent is no longer responsible for payment.

If your child is arrested and authorized for release, but you refuse custody of your child the cost per day is $100.75.
While you are a juvenile your record is active and available to the department. However, most juvenile records are confidential and cannot be accessed by others. Juvenile records can be sealed under certain circumstances. If you would like further information please see www.washoecounty.us/defender.
The purpose of probation is to provide supervison of youth to ensure they comply with the orders of the court.
The purpose of detention is to keep the community secure from high risk offenders. It is not to "teach a lesson". National studies have shown that incarceration is not the answer. If you have been told you must pick up your child, it is because your child has not met the risk criteria to stay detained. Please be assured however, that your child`s case will be dealt with in a timely fashion. Further information about Juvenile Services

Please be aware if your child is arrested and authorized for release, but you refuse custody of your child the cost per day is $100.75.
Once your child is detained, you will be asked to sign a Health Consent Waiver which authorizes a health assessment by our medical staff. This assessment may include a medical, dental and psychiatric history, review of immunization history and update of immunizations as needed including influenza vaccine, laboratory and/or diagnostic tests to detect communicable diseases including tuberculosis and a medical examination by a physician or Advanced Practitioner of Nursing.
Giving up custody of your child comes with some serious consequences. If you would like more information, please call Washoe County Department of Social Services at 785-8600.


Information about and the requirements for Juvenile Work Permits can be found by calling 325-7801
Status rights are the Rights associated with youth that are charged with offense based on their "status". In other words, offenses that would not apply to an adult such as, Runaway, CHINS (Child in Need of Supervision), Incorrigible, Curfew and Truancy. The Supreme Court has ruled that children not on probation cannot be housed in a detention facility. Other options are available to status offenders at the McGee Center.
Emancipation is the legal process of obtaining adulthood.
The main difference between the adult and juvenile system is the concept of Rehabilitation. Washoe County Juvenile Services is committed to helping youthful offenders better themselves by offering a multitude of services and accountability. While community protection is of the utmost importance, youthful offenders are an important part of that community and as such deserve all the resources available to them. Learn more about the alternatives to detention.
Yes, the Law Library serves the courts, the bar and the general public. A law library circulation card is not required to come into the Law Library and use library resources in the library.
Yes. The library staff will respond to telephone inquires regarding the library`s holdings and other legal resources, and will respond to specific short answer requests. However, the staff will not read statutes, regulations, court rules, or extended passages from other sources over the phones.
Talk with a volunteer lawyer for a few minutes about your legal problem for free! This program provides a brief consultation with an attorney for a few minutes, not extensive legal advice.

Held every Wednesday evening from 5:00-7:00 pm at the Law Library. Sign-ups are taken no sooner than 4:30 pm.
We have free wireless internet access available at seven of our libraries, Downtown, Incline Village, North Valleys, Northwest Re