Landscaping Rules in Boise, ID (2026)
6 verified landscaping rules for Boise, Idaho, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Boise requires weeds and grass to be kept under 10 inches tall on all residential and commercial parcels. The Boise Code Enforcement Division handles complaints and can abate overgrown lots with cost recovery.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Boise property owners must trim trees so branches do not obstruct sidewalks (8 ft clearance) or streets (14 ft clearance). The Boise Community Forestry Unit regulates pruning of public trees and issues no-charge permits for street trees.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Removing a tree on private property in Boise generally does not require a permit, but street trees in the public right-of-way and Protected Trees under the Hillside Development Ordinance require Community Forestry approval. Replacement is usually required.
Landscaping: Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Boise enforces weed abatement under local nuisance codes. Overgrown properties subject to city abatement at owner's expense.
Boise Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Boise is served primarily by Suez/Veolia and several irrigation districts. Outdoor watering is discouraged between 10 AM and 6 PM June through September. Surface water via the New York Canal system has assigned delivery days by zone.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsNative Plants
Xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscaping are actively encouraged in Boise. The WaterWise program offers design guides and rebates, and HOA covenants cannot prohibit water-efficient landscaping under Idaho Code Section 55-115.