Reno’s ADU Debate: Will Metropolis Survive the Invasion of the Lex Luthers?

ADUs can help with affordable housing but the Reno City Council need to make sure they do not turn into motel rooms as short term rentals.

On September 10th, the Reno City Council will hold the first reading of its ordinance on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—the supposed superhero solution to affordable housing. A second reading will follow two weeks later.

But here’s the plot twist: without one critical safeguard—banning short-term rentals—Reno’s neighborhoods could become the next playground for an army of real estate villains.

The ordinance currently states that ADUs cannot be used as short-term rentals. That clause must stay. Otherwise, Reno’s backyards could transform into motel rooms faster than Lex Luthor can say, “Metropolis for sale!”

Governor Lombardo didn’t sign AB396 so speculative landlords—call them the parasites of affordable housing—could swoop in and turn homes into high-priced weekend getaways. He was sold on the promise of long-term housing for real people, not a quick profit grab - and the answer per AB396 are ADUs.

Citizens will rely on the Reno City Council to make sure to:

• Not let short-term rentals become the archenemy of affordable housing.

• Protect Reno’s neighborhoods from being carved into micro-hotels.

• Prove this ordinance is about homes, not hustle.

On September 10th, the battle for Reno’s housing future begins. Let’s hope City Hall remembers who the heroes are supposed to be.