Can I Build Tiny Home in Boise, ID? (2026)
Find out if you can build a tiny home in Boise, ID. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Tiny homes on permanent foundations are allowed in Boise, ID. Tiny homes on wheels are not permitted as permanent dwellings.
A tiny home is a small dwelling unit — typically under 400 sq ft — that can be built on a permanent foundation or on wheels. In Boise, ID, the rules differ significantly depending on whether the structure is on a permanent foundation (treated as a dwelling unit under building code) or on wheels (treated as a recreational vehicle under vehicle code). Tiny homes on permanent foundations must meet a minimum size of 150 sq ft in Boise.
Tiny Home Rules in Boise
Tiny Home Rules in Boise: Foundation-based tiny homes: Permitted. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs): Not permitted as permanent dwelling — classified as recreational vehicle. Minimum size: 150 sq ft. Tiny homes on permanent foundations must meet Idaho Residential Code minimum room size requirements. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are classified as recreational vehicles and are not permitted as permanent dwellings in Boise residential zones.
Costs & Fees
Building permit fees for tiny homes in Boise follow the same schedule as other new construction. Contact the Boise Planning and Development Services — Building Division at (208) 384-3830 for current fee information.
Next Steps
Next steps for building a tiny home in Boise: 1. Determine foundation vs. wheeled — the rules are fundamentally different. 2. For foundation tiny homes, obtain a building permit from the Boise Planning and Development Services — Building Division. 3. For wheeled tiny homes, verify whether your property allows RV siting. 4. Check if your tiny home could qualify as an ADU on your property.
Boise Planning and Development Services — Building Division
Phone: (208) 384-3830
Website: https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/planning-and-development-services/
Online Permits: https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/planning-and-development-services/building/permits/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Boise?
Yes. Boise allows ADUs (accessory dwelling units) through its local zoning code (City Code Title 11). You can build a detached or attached ADU on most residential lots. Idaho does not have statewide ADU preemption, but Boise has adopted permissive local ADU allowances. Detached ADUs are limited to 1,000 sqft. No owner-occupancy requirement applies. Permits are processed by Boise Planning and Development Services.
Does Boise require a permit for short-term rentals?
Yes. Boise requires a Short-Term Rental License ($125/year) for all Airbnb-style rentals. An annual fire safety inspection is also required. The license number must be displayed on all listing platforms. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit applicable Idaho state sales tax and local lodging taxes on behalf of hosts.
What are the setbacks in an R-1C zone in Boise?
In an R-1C zone in Boise (standard single-family residential), the setbacks are: 20 ft front, 5 ft each side, and 20 ft rear. ADUs must maintain 5 ft side and 10 ft rear setbacks. Always verify specific parcel setbacks with Boise Planning and Development Services.
Are solar panels required on new homes in Boise?
No. Idaho does not have a solar mandate for residential construction. Solar is voluntary in Boise. Idaho Power serves the Boise area and offers net metering through their Solar PV Program. HOAs have limited ability to prohibit solar installations under Idaho Code Section 55-115.
What makes Boise zoning unique?
Boise is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US and has updated its zoning code to address rapid growth and housing demand. The city has hillside development constraints through the Hillside and Foothill Development Ordinance for properties in the foothills areas. Boise is also notable for its Greenbelt trail system along the Boise River, which creates open space requirements near the river.
Source: Boise Planning and Development Services — Building Division — Building Regulations. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source