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Nampa, ID Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Designating body
Forestry tree board
Criteria
Rarity, age, history, condition
Private-tree effect
Discretionary consideration only
Governing sections
Nampa City Code §§ 5-2-2, 5-2-7

Summary

Nampa's forestry tree board can designate a qualifying tree as a heritage tree based on rarity, age, or historical value, but on private land that status only triggers discretionary retention consideration: it does not block removal.

Heritage tree: Typically, a large, individual tree with unique value that is considered irreplaceable. Factors of age, rarity, size, aesthetics, botanical, ecological and historical value are considered. Heritage tree status can be requested by the property owner to be considered by the forestry tree board. A tree may qualify as a "heritage tree" if it meets one or more of the following criteria: 1.Rare species; 2.Documented association with a historical event or person; 3.Abnormality; 4.Scenic enhancement; 5.Old age; 6.Tree must be healthy and in good condition.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 16 Update 1).

Full Breakdown

Nampa City Code § 5-2-2 lets the forestry tree board identify and recommend "heritage tree" status for trees that are rare, tied to a historical event or person, structurally unusual, scenically valuable, old, or simply notable, so long as the tree is healthy. Owners can request the designation. Under § 5-2-7(A)(2)(d)(3), heritage trees on private property "may be considered for protection and retention by the city forester and the forestry tree board," weighing location, species, size, health, and pending development: a discretionary review, not a removal ban or permit mandate.

Violations & Fines

No fine or citation attaches to heritage status itself. Public-tree work still needs a forester permit under § 5-2-4, enforced by code enforcement citations under § 5-2-15; private heritage trees carry no equivalent removal permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still remove a heritage tree from my own yard in Nampa?
Yes. Nampa City Code § 5-2-7 says heritage trees on private property "may be considered for protection and retention," but this is discretionary review, not a removal permit requirement.
How does a tree get heritage status in Nampa?
The forestry tree board identifies and recommends heritage trees under § 5-2-2 using criteria like rare species, historical association, unusual form, scenic value, or old age, and owners can request review.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Nampa

Fence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsPublic Conduct: Skateboarding RulesSignificant RestrictionsPublic Conduct: Public UrinationSome RestrictionsPublic Conduct: Loitering RulesSome RestrictionsPublic Conduct: Aggressive PanhandlingSignificant RestrictionsBusiness Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body ModificationSome Restrictions

All Nampa rules

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