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.
Idaho Code Section 55-115 prohibits homeowners associations from enforcing covenants that restrict drought-tolerant landscaping, artificial turf, or water-efficient designs where such restriction conflicts with reasonable water conservation. Boise City Code and the zoning code allow xeriscape as a permitted landscaping option for all residential districts and new developments; the Landscape Standards (Boise Development Code Chapter 11-04-09) actively encourage native plantings. The Idaho Botanical Garden and Boise Public Works WaterWise maintain approved plant lists including rabbitbrush, sagebrush, penstemon, and blue flax. Rock mulch over 30% of the yard is allowed but some overlays (North End Historic) require predominant living groundcover.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Boise, ID
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See how Boise's native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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