Landscaping Rules in Kootenai County, ID (2026)
4 rules for unincorporated Kootenai County, Idaho.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Trimming
In unincorporated Kootenai County there is no general tree-trimming permit, but within the 25-foot Shoreline Management Area along Lake Coeur d'Alene and the Coeur d'Alene and Spokane Rivers, shrub trimming and view-corridor work is limited by the county's Shoreline Management Code.
Tree Trimming Rules Near the Kootenai County Shoreline
Some RestrictionsKootenai County Code 8.7.111
A shoreline management area of twenty five feet (25') in slope distance landward of the ordinary high water mark of all recognized lakes, the Coeur d'Alene River, and the Spokane River, is hereby established.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Kootenai County has no general tree-removal permit, but the distinctive Shoreline Management Area rule (County Code 8.7.111) protects trees and vegetation within 25 feet of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the rivers. Removal there is limited and mechanical disturbance needs a Shoreline Management Plan.
Shoreline Tree-Removal Review in Kootenai County
Some RestrictionsKootenai County Code 8.7.111
A shoreline management area of twenty five feet (25') in slope distance landward of the ordinary high water mark of all recognized lakes, the Coeur d'Alene River, and the Spokane River, is hereby established.
Weed Ordinances
Idaho law makes weed control mandatory: every landowner must control noxious weeds on their property at their own cost (Idaho Code 22-2407). Kootenai County's Noxious Weed Control office inspects unincorporated land, notices violators, and can bill or lien uncontrolled properties.
Noxious Weed Control Duty in Kootenai County
Some RestrictionsIdaho Code 22-2407
It shall be the duty and responsibility of all landowners to control noxious weeds on their land and property, in accordance with this chapter and with rules promulgated by the director.
Water Restrictions
Kootenai County itself sets no countywide lawn-watering schedule. Outdoor watering limits, if any, come from your city or your water/irrigation provider. Under Idaho law, outdoor irrigation of lawns and landscaping is not treated as household in-home water use.
Outdoor Watering Restrictions in Kootenai County
Some RestrictionsIdaho Code 42-111 (in-home use)
It does not include irrigation of lawns, gardens, landscaping, pastures, or other open spaces.
All Kootenai County ordinances
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