Idaho Bans Local Rent Control

Idaho Code 55-307(2) provides that a local governmental unit shall not enact, maintain, or enforce an ordinance or resolution that would have the effect of mandating Idaho property owners to participate in an optional federal housing assistance program or any other program or law that would otherwise regulate rent, fees, or deposits charged for leasing private residential property. The provision does not impair a local government's right to manage residential property in which it holds a property interest. Idaho has no statewide rent cap; under Idaho Code 55-307(3), a landlord must give at least 30 days' written notice before increasing residential rent, but the amount is not limited. No Idaho municipality operates rent control.

A local rent control ordinance would be preempted and unenforceable under Idaho Code 55-307; a property owner could challenge it in court. The statute fixes no fine, but preemption renders any conflicting local rule void.