Boise Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Boise, ID. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
235,684
Total Zone Types
20
Planning Department
Boise Planning and Development Services — Planning Division
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Ada County
Metro Area
Boise City-Nampa
Boise Zoning System
The Boise zoning system includes 20 total zone classifications: 7 residential zones (R-1A, R-1B, R-1C, R-1D, R-2, and others) and 4 commercial zones (C-1, C-2, C-3, C-5), as well as 3 mixed-use zones (A-1, MX-1, MX-2) and 2 industrial zones (M-1, M-2). Boise uses City Code Title 11 (Zoning Regulations), administered by the Planning and Development Services department. Residential zones range from low-density R-1A (very large lot, estate residential) through R-3 (multi-family) and R-O (residential office). Boise is the fastest-growing major city in the US over the past decade and has updated its zoning code to address housing demand. The city has made incremental reforms to allow more housing types in residential zones and has updated its ADU provisions to comply with Idaho state housing legislation. Boise is the capital of Idaho and the center of the Treasure Valley metro area. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Boise Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Boise Building Department (Boise Planning and Development Services — Building Division) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (208) 384-3830 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Boise Planning and Development Services — Planning Division at (208) 384-3830. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Building Department
Boise Planning and Development Services — Building Division
(208) 384-3830
Visit WebsitePlanning Department
Boise Planning and Development Services — Planning Division
(208) 384-3830
Visit WebsiteFrequently 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 City Code Title 11, Section 11-04-07 — Accessory Dwelling Units. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source