Idaho Wildfire Zones Law: Statewide Fire Regulations Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Authority: Idaho Department of Lands
Statute: Idaho Code 38-122
Closed Season: May 10-Oct 20
Protection Fees: Per Idaho Code 38-111

Full Breakdown

Idaho Code Title 38, Chapters 1 and 4, vest the Idaho Department of Lands and the State Board of Land Commissioners with primary responsibility for wildfire prevention and suppression on state-protected forest and rangelands. Idaho Code 38-122 allows the State Forester to issue emergency closures or restrictions during extreme fire conditions, including campfire bans and industrial activity shutdowns. Forest landowners pay annual fire protection assessments under Idaho Code 38-111. While Idaho does not legislate WUI building codes statewide, counties may adopt fire-hardening overlays. Federal lands fall under U.S. Forest Service or BLM jurisdiction with parallel restrictions.

Violations & Penalties

Violating an emergency fire closure is a misdemeanor under Idaho Code 38-132 with fines and potential restitution for suppression costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who manages wildfire response in Idaho?

The Idaho Department of Lands manages wildfire prevention and suppression on state-protected lands under Idaho Code 38-101 et seq., coordinating with federal agencies on adjacent jurisdictions.

Can Idaho close all campfires statewide?

Yes. Under Idaho Code 38-122, the State Forester may issue emergency restrictions including campfire bans during periods of extreme fire danger, applying to public and private lands.

Idaho Department of Lands Wildfire Protection Authority