Coeur d'Alene, ID Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Chapter 12.44 opens with a council finding that appropriate controls are required for improvements within public rights of way. Section 12.44.020A then makes it unlawful to construct any street work in a public right of way, place any obstruction on its surface, or change its surface or grade without first obtaining an encroachment permit and completing the work in the manner the permit requires and to the standards adopted by the City. The listed improvements include bicycle racks, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, driveways and utilities, and subdivisions fall within the requirement. Under section 12.44.020B the City Council can approve annual encroachment permit agreements with utility companies that hold franchise agreements or are regulated by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission.

Section 12.44.030 requires a written application to the City Engineer or the Engineer's designee stating the applicant's name, address and principal place of business, the name, address and telephone number of the person in responsible charge, the location and dimensions of the installation, the purpose of the facility, and the approximate time needed to finish the work and remove waste material and debris. The City Engineer can grant an extension of time for good and sufficient cause. Section 12.44.040 charges a permit fee to cover issuance and inspection, according to a schedule adopted by resolution and policy of the City Council, and subjects poles and anchors for power, telephone and similar surface installations to franchises or joint power agreements.

By accepting the permit the applicant agrees to hold the City, the City Council and city officers and employees free and harmless from damage or injury arising from the work, and stays liable for the setting of improvements until twelve months after completion (12.44.050). An application approved and signed by the City Engineer or designee is the permit, and it must state a time limit to start the work and a time limit to finish it (12.44.060). Tree work that will impair use of a sidewalk, street or alley triggers this same permit under section 12.36.300C.