Custom Home Builder & General Contractor in Lake Tahoe

Daoust Design & Construction is a licensed general contractor serving the Lake Tahoe basin on both the California and Nevada sides. From lakefront estates in Incline Village to mountain retreats in Tahoe City, we bring decades of design-build expertise to one of the most beautiful — and demanding — building environments in the country.

Building at Lake Tahoe requires a contractor who understands alpine construction, heavy snow loads, TRPA regulations, and the environmental sensitivity of the basin. Our team manages every detail from initial design through final construction, holding both California and Nevada contractor licenses to work on either side of the lake.

Custom Lakefront & Mountain Home Construction

We design and build custom homes throughout the Lake Tahoe region, from lakefront properties to forested mountain lots. Every home is engineered for Tahoe’s extreme alpine conditions — heavy snow loads, steep terrain, and strict environmental regulations. Our design-build approach means one team handles everything from architectural design to final construction.

Tahoe Home Remodeling & Renovation

Transform your Tahoe property with a full-scale renovation. Whether it’s a vacation home that needs updating or a year-round residence ready for a modern refresh, we handle everything from structural improvements to high-end finishes. Our team specializes in maximizing views, improving energy efficiency, and bringing older Tahoe cabins into the modern era while respecting the mountain aesthetic.

Additions & ADUs in the Tahoe Basin

Need more space without starting from scratch? We build home additions and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) throughout the Lake Tahoe region. Whether you want a guest house, a home office, or extra living space for family, we navigate the unique permitting requirements of TRPA and local jurisdictions to expand your property’s potential while staying within environmental guidelines.

Communities We Serve Around Lake Tahoe

We build on both sides of the lake. Our Lake Tahoe service area includes Tahoe City, Homewood, Tahoma, Meeks Bay, Rubicon Bay, South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, Zephyr Cove, Glenbrook, Incline Village, and Crystal Bay. Whether your property is on the California or Nevada side, we hold active contractor licenses in both states and understand the specific building codes and TRPA requirements for each jurisdiction.

Why Choose Daoust for Your Tahoe Project

Daoust Design & Construction is led by Jed Daoust, a hands-on builder with over a decade of experience constructing custom homes and completing renovations throughout the Sierra. What sets us apart at Lake Tahoe:

Design-Build Under One Roof — One team from concept to completion means fewer delays, better communication, and tighter cost control.

TRPA & Alpine Expertise — We understand Tahoe’s strict environmental regulations, heavy snow load engineering, and the unique challenges of building in the basin.

Dual-State Licensed — California Contractor License #987601 and Nevada Contractor License #0083283 allow us to work on either side of the lake without delay.

Sustainable Building Practices — Experience with LEED and GreenPoint Rated construction, because building responsibly at Tahoe isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Licensed, Insured & Proven

California Contractor License #987601 (General Building, Active)

Nevada Contractor License #0083283

Our commitment to quality has earned us a BuildZoom score of 96 out of 100, placing us in the top 20% of contractors. We carry full workers’ compensation insurance and bonding for your protection.

Ready to build or remodel at Lake Tahoe? Call us at 775-833-8686 or email info@daoustdc.com to discuss your project.

Featured Lake Tahoe Projects

Our Tahoe portfolio showcases lakefront builds, mountain retreats, and complete renovations designed for alpine living. From custom homes engineered for heavy snow loads to vacation properties modernized for year-round comfort, each project demonstrates our expertise in building at elevation. Visit our portfolio to explore completed work throughout the Lake Tahoe basin.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building at Lake Tahoe

What is TRPA and how does it affect building at Lake Tahoe?

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) is a bi-state agency that regulates development in the Lake Tahoe Basin to protect the lake’s clarity and the surrounding environment. Nearly all construction projects require TRPA approval in addition to local building permits. This includes coverage limits on how much of your lot can be developed, tree removal restrictions, and stormwater management requirements. As experienced Tahoe builders, we handle the full TRPA permitting process for you.

How much does it cost to build a custom home at Lake Tahoe?

Custom home construction at Lake Tahoe typically ranges from $500 to $800+ per square foot. Tahoe builds tend to cost more than valley construction due to alpine engineering requirements, heavy snow load design, difficult site access, shorter building seasons, and TRPA compliance costs. Lakefront properties and steep lots add additional complexity. We provide transparent budgeting during the design phase so you know exactly what to expect.

Can I build year-round at Lake Tahoe?

Construction at Tahoe is possible year-round, but winter conditions can slow exterior work significantly. Most builders plan major ground and foundation work for the spring through fall months when weather permits. Interior work, finishing, and planning can continue through winter. We strategically schedule projects to maximize the building season and keep your timeline moving forward.

Do I need both a TRPA permit and a local building permit?

Yes. Most construction projects within the Tahoe Basin require permits from both TRPA and your local jurisdiction — whether that’s Placer County, El Dorado County, Douglas County, or Washoe County. Some smaller projects may qualify for TRPA exemptions, but anything involving new construction, additions, or significant exterior changes typically needs dual approval. We manage this entire process as part of our design-build services.

What special building considerations are there for lakefront properties?

Lakefront construction at Tahoe comes with additional requirements including shorezone regulations, setback requirements from the high-water line, and strict erosion control during construction. TRPA closely monitors any work near the shoreline to protect water quality. Building materials, stormwater drainage, and landscaping must all meet specific environmental standards. Our experience building along the lake ensures your project meets every requirement while maximizing your property’s lakefront potential.