Kootenai County, ID Building Setbacks & Zoning: Lot Coverage Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Required open space
- 65% of parcel
- Max structure coverage
- About 35% of parcel
- Applies in
- RR, HDR, Ag Suburban zones
- Coverage bar
- LUDC 8.4.1404(C)
- Min lot (Rural)
- 5 acres
Summary
Kootenai County's residential and suburban zones require that development leave 65% of the parcel as open space free from structures. The code prohibits any building from occupying a greater percentage of lot area than allowed.
On parcels that are a minimum of nine thousand nine hundred (9,900) square feet but less than five (5.00) acres in size, the following uses are permitted, provided that all uses shall leave sixty-five percent (65%) of the parcel as open space free from structures.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Rather than a single 'lot coverage' percentage, the LUDC uses open-space minimums. In the Agricultural Suburban, Restricted Residential, and High Density Residential zones, permitted uses must 'leave sixty-five percent (65%) of the parcel as open space free from structures' (e.g., 8.2.306, 8.2.405-407, 8.2.504): effectively a 35% maximum building/structure coverage. LUDC 8.4.1404 bars erecting or altering any building so as to occupy 'a greater percentage of lot area' than permitted or to reduce required yards/open space. Required open space and off-street parking for one building cannot be counted toward another (8.4.1406). Minimum lot sizes also apply by zone (e.g., Rural 5 acres, Ag Suburban 2 acres).
Violations & Fines
Exceeding coverage or eliminating required open space violates the LUDC (8.8.603.A misdemeanor); the county may withhold permits and assess penalties up to $1,000/day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much of my lot can I build on?
Is there a fixed lot-coverage percentage?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kootenai County
Compare Kootenai County to another location·View the Idaho building setbacks & zoning overview
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