Boise, ID Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Boise's amended residential building code (IRC § R105.2.2) waives permits only for true ordinary repairs, things like replacing lamps or plugging in approved portable equipment. The moment work involves cutting into a wall or partition, removing or cutting a structural beam or load-bearing support, changing a required exit path, or touching gas piping, combustion venting, electrical wiring, or mechanical systems, it stops being an exempt 'repair' and a permit from Planning and Development Services is required. Separately, purely cosmetic finish work, painting, papering, tiling, carpet, cabinets, and countertops, is permit-exempt under § 9-1B-8 (R105.2). Homeowners doing a kitchen or bath remodel, a wall removal, or an addition should apply before starting work; permits are pulled and fees assessed through the city's Building Permit Fee Schedule.