Boise does not mandate turf removal but partners with Idaho Power and Veolia Water on rebates for converting lawn to drought-tolerant landscaping that supports the Treasure Valley aquifer.
There is no Boise ordinance comparable to California's lawn-replacement mandates. Instead, the city promotes WaterSense plant lists and works with Veolia Water Idaho on seasonal rebates and free landscape audits. The 2023 zoning rewrite caps turf area in non-residential front yards and requires water-efficient irrigation controllers for new commercial installations. Homeowners replacing front-yard turf with native or xeric plants do not need a city permit unless grading exceeds 50 cubic yards or alters drainage.
No fines for keeping turf. Failure to install required water-efficient controllers on new commercial sites is corrected at certificate of occupancy.
Boise, ID
Xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscaping are actively encouraged in Boise. The WaterWise program offers design guides and rebates, and HOA covenants cannot...
Boise, ID
Boise residents are asked to follow Suez/Veolia Water Idaho's voluntary water-wise schedule of two to three irrigation days per week, watering before 10 a.m....
See how Boise's turf replacement rebates rules stack up against other locations.
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