Caldwell, ID Building Setbacks & Zoning: Lot Coverage Limits (2026)

Caldwell controls building bulk partly through lot coverage limits in its zoning bulk and dimensional standards (Chapter 10). The code states that lot coverage, including all area under roofs and paved surfaces, including driveways, walks, and parking areas, shall not exceed eighty percent (80%) of the total lot and parking area in the applicable context. For single-family attached dwelling units, the maximum lot coverage is sixty-five percent (65%) for interior lots and fifty percent (50%) for corner lots, recognizing that corner lots front two streets and need more open yard area. Lot coverage limits work together with setbacks and height to keep adequate open space, light, and drainage on each lot, and the precise percentage applicable to your project depends on the zoning district and dwelling type. Because the 2025 code update reorganized residential standards into Article 5 (Section 10-05-04), and coverage definitions can differ between districts (for example, whether all impervious paving counts or only roofed area), confirm the exact coverage cap and what counts toward it for your zone with the city's dimensional standards table and the Planning and Zoning Division before designing additions, patios, driveways, or accessory structures. Exceeding the coverage maximum requires a variance approved through a public hearing.