Boise replaced its decades-old zoning ordinance with a Modern Zoning Code effective December 2023, simplifying districts, allowing more housing types by right, and aligning with Blueprint Boise comprehensive-plan goals.
After several years of public engagement, Boise City Council adopted the Modern Zoning Code in mid-2023 with most provisions taking effect December 1, 2023. The rewrite consolidated dozens of legacy districts into fewer base zones, legalized duplexes and ADUs in most residential areas, established form-based standards along transit corridors, and added overlays for the Foothills and historic neighborhoods. Existing approvals were grandfathered. The Planning and Zoning Commission hears most discretionary applications, with City Council appeals available.
Building or operating contrary to the new code triggers permit denial, stop-work orders, or daily civil penalties under Title 11 enforcement provisions.
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Boise, ID
Boise's zoning and property maintenance codes do not restrict residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays at single-family homes. Political s...
Boise, ID
Boise has no specific city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Restrictions come from HOA and condo covenants under Idaho Code Titl...
Boise, ID
Boise has no citywide ordinance restricting residential holiday lights at single-family homes. Real restrictions arise from HOA and condo covenants under Ida...
Boise, ID
Outdoor kitchens in Boise require separate trade permits from Planning and Development Services: building permit for structural elements, mechanical permit f...
Boise, ID
Boise has no specific city ordinance regulating residential offset smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired pizza ovens at single-family homes in normal conditi...
Boise, ID
Boise adopts the International Fire Code (IFC) with local amendments through Boise City Code Title 9. IFC §308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and L...
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