Bolthole Index

Clark County, Idaho

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Clark County, Idaho

44Index Score / 100
#35 of 44 in Idaho

Clark County, Idaho publishes a building-permit application, but we could not confirm exactly which projects require one; ask Planning & Zoning before construction1. Clark County publishes countywide zoning materials, while electrical, plumbing and HVAC work requires permits through the authority serving the property1,2. Eastern Idaho Public Health handles septic permits and inspections in Clark County3,4.

Do you need a building permit in Clark County, Idaho?

Possibly, but confirm the project with Clark County Planning & Zoning before starting.

Possibly, but confirm the project with Clark County Planning & Zoning before starting. Clark County lists a building-permit application and a site-plan form, but the county page does not establish the full workflow, deadlines, exceptions or exactly which projects require approval1. Idaho counties may operate local building-code programs, and construction in a jurisdiction that enforces building codes requires the permit set by its ordinance8. Electrical, plumbing and HVAC work requires a permit through the state program unless a local program administers that trade2. A new manufactured home in an area without an approved local building program needs a state installation permit and tag before installation, and every manufactured-home installation must be approved before occupancy9.

Who handles Clark County building and zoning questions?

Clark County Planning & Zoning is the first call for a rural building project: the office can be reached at 208-374-5271 at 224 W Main St., Dubois, ID 83423.

Clark County Planning & Zoning is the first call for a rural building project: the office can be reached at 208-374-5271 at 224 W Main St., Dubois, ID 8342310. Clark County lists forms for building permits, site plans, conditional uses, amendments, lot adjustments, floodplain permits, lot splits, plats, variances, zone changes and approach permits, but the page does not state the complete review sequence or timing1. Ask Planning & Zoning to identify the parcel's zoning district, required forms and current fees before commissioning final plans. Clark County publishes planning and zoning fee resolutions, including an updated fee resolution, but we could not confirm which amounts and effective date are current1. For electrical, plumbing or HVAC work, determine whether Idaho's state program or a local program serves the property2.

Does Clark County, Idaho have zoning?

Yes.

Yes. Clark County publishes countywide zoning and development-code materials, including a current-zoning-districts document and a development code1. The county index does not expose the district names or dimensional standards, so rural acreage should not be treated as unrestricted1. Ask Clark County Planning & Zoning to confirm the parcel's district and whether a proposed house, cabin, RV, tiny home, accessory dwelling or agricultural building is allowed10. We could not confirm countywide minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage or building height; ask Planning & Zoning for the standards that apply to the parcel10. Idaho requires agricultural buildings to be exempt from the enumerated state building codes, but a county may still issue farm-building permits for road setbacks and utility easements8.

How do septic permits work in Clark County?

Eastern Idaho Public Health serves Clark County, reviews wastewater applications, performs onsite evaluations, issues permits and conducts inspections; call 208-523-5382.

Eastern Idaho Public Health serves Clark County, reviews wastewater applications, performs onsite evaluations, issues permits and conducts inspections; call 208-523-53823. A valid installation permit is required to construct, modify or expand an individual or subsurface sewage system; narrow exceptions cover temporary portable non-discharging systems and certain repairs that do not expand the system3. The application requires a plot plan, building plan and payment, and the permit is valid for 2 years with a $50 renewal available3. Give Eastern Idaho Public Health at least 48 hours' notice for the mandatory final inspection, and do not cover the system before approval4. Only 5.9% of Clark County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the onsite evaluation an early purchase contingency11.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Clark County?

We could not confirm a Clark County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV or tiny-home occupancy on private land.

We could not confirm a Clark County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV or tiny-home occupancy on private land. Because Clark County publishes countywide zoning materials, ask Planning & Zoning about the parcel, proposed duration, sanitation and whether the unit is treated as a dwelling1,10. A temporary portable non-discharging sanitation system can qualify for a septic-permit exception, but that exception does not itself authorize RV residence or camping3. Idaho's camping limits for Wildlife Management Areas do not answer the private-property question12. A new manufactured home has a clearer state process: where no approved local building program exists, installation requires a state permit and tag before work, followed by inspection and approval before occupancy9.

Building a home in Clark County: what are the steps?

Call Clark County Planning & Zoning at 208-374-5271 with the parcel and proposed use; ask for the zoning district, building application, site plan, floodplain review, approach review and current fees.

  1. Call Clark County Planning & Zoning at 208-374-5271 with the parcel and proposed use; ask for the zoning district, building application, site plan, floodplain review, approach review and current fees1,10.
  1. Contact Eastern Idaho Public Health before fixing the house location so it can evaluate the wastewater site and process the septic installation permit3.
  1. Arrange electrical, plumbing and HVAC permits through the authority serving the parcel2.
  1. Before drilling a private well, obtain the drilling permit and use an IDWR-licensed well driller7.
  1. If the driveway connects to a state highway, obtain an Idaho Transportation Department encroachment permit13.
  1. Give Eastern Idaho Public Health at least 48 hours' notice and keep the septic system uncovered until its final inspection4.

What should you check before buying land in Clark County?

Start with legal access, zoning and wastewater feasibility rather than assuming a large rural parcel is buildable.

Start with legal access, zoning and wastewater feasibility rather than assuming a large rural parcel is buildable. Clark County Planning & Zoning can confirm the district and identify which published applications apply1,10. Eastern Idaho Public Health reviews every new subdivision in Clark County for wastewater-disposal suitability, but that health review is not the whole subdivision-approval process14. Septic suitability deserves special attention because only 5.9% of Clark County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field11. Verify water separately: Idaho requires a permit before well drilling and requires an IDWR-licensed driller7. Ask Planning & Zoning whether the site is in a regulated floodplain: Clark County publishes a floodplain-development permit application, but we could not confirm the complete trigger or standards1,10.

Watch-outs

  • A published building application does not by itself answer which Clark County projects require approval; confirm the trigger with Planning & Zoning before work begins1,10.
  • Most Clark County soils rate as severely limited for a conventional septic drain field, so obtain an onsite evaluation before relying on a proposed homesite3,11.
  • Clark County rules for private-land RV living, tiny homes and minimum dwelling size remain unconfirmed; ask Planning & Zoning about the parcel and proposed use1,10.

Sources

14 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 10, 2026

  1. County Ordinances
  2. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Idaho statewide rule)
  3. Septic
  4. Septic Permit Application Packet
  5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Idaho statewide rule)
  6. How To Purchase a Trade Permit (Idaho statewide rule)
  7. Wells Overview (Idaho statewide rule)
  8. Idaho Building Code Act statutes (Idaho statewide rule)
  9. Building Archives - Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Idaho statewide rule)
  10. Clark County Planning & Zoning (clark-co.id.gov)
  11. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  12. Public Use of Department Lands and Access Areas (Idaho statewide rule)
  13. Types of Right-of-Way Encroachment Permits (Idaho statewide rule)
  14. Land Development

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Clark County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleClark CountyJefferson CountyMadison CountyFremont CountyButte CountyTeton CountyBingham County
Building permitLimitedRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsEastern Idaho Public HealthEastern Idaho Public HealthEIPHEastern Idaho Public HealthSIPHEastern Idaho Public HealthSoutheastern Idaho Public Health

County locator

Clark County in Idaho

44
County map
Clark County highlighted among the Idaho counties · colored by Index score

How Clark County scores

44 / 100 · #35 of 44 in Idaho · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency15100% ev.
Admin Boringness5390% ev.
Durability39100% ev.
Property Autonomy90100% ev.
Carry Cost8396% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$262kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$3,102Land / acre
16.7"Annual rain
15.3% of yrsSevere drought
0.9 / yr (+0.9)Mid-century 100°F days
21.9 daysMid-century dry spell
0.96" (+6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.21×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,185Home insurance / yr
5.4% / yrInsurance growth
4.17%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
79,574People within 2 hr
882Radius comparison (15 mi)
0.5People / sq mi
62.8%Federal land
69.2%Land at 15% slope or less
5.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
64,376 acWorkable land screen
21.7%Wooded land
32.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
40.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Clark County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet covered: Spencer

Answers from the rulebook for Clark County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Clark County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Wind energy systems in Clark County.

    • A building permit must comply with the International Building Code.
    • Permit applications for wind energy systems must include standard drawings of the wind turbine structure, including the tower, base, and footings.
    “L. Building Permit: A building permit is required and must comply with the International Building Code. Permit applications for wind energy systems shall be accompanied by standard drawings of the wind turbine structure, including the tower, base, and footings.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Clark County building-code and inspection program; the county source also states that the Cities adopted the code.

    • The source states that the County and Cities adopted the International Building Code in 2010.
    • The active building inspection program is provided under contract with Jefferson County Idaho’s Building Official.

    building code: International Building Code · adoption year: 2010 year

    “The County and Cities adopted the International Building Code in 2010 and has an active building inspection program provided under contract with Jefferson County Idaho’s Building Official.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    County zoning and development-code materials identified by Clark County.

    • The county webpage lists county ordinances, current zoning districts, a Planning & Zoning Development Code Manual, and a Development Code.
    “County Ordinances Current Zoning Districts Proposed Zoning Change Planning Area Map 2 Mile Buffer Development Map Changes Planning & Zoning Development Code Manual Comprehensive Plan - updated 2019 Development Code”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Clark County zoning-district information.

    • The opened page identifies a Current Zoning Districts document but does not expose the district names or dimensional standards.
    “County Ordinances Current Zoning Districts Proposed Zoning Change Planning Area Map 2 Mile Buffer Development Map Changes Planning & Zoning Development Code Manual Comprehensive Plan - updated 2019 Development Code”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Clark County zoning-district materials.
      “Current Zoning Districts Proposed Zoning Change Planning Area Map”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Hobbyist or personal wind turbine towers.

    • The one-acre minimum applies only to land used for hobbyist or personal wind turbine towers.

    minimum lot area: >= 1 acre (Hobbyist or personal wind turbine towers.)

    “J. Minimum Site Area: Hobbyist or personal wind turbine towers shall be allowed only on lands with a minimum lot area of one acre.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Wind turbines less than 150 feet in height with nameplate capacity less than 100 kilowatts.

    • The standard applies to each wind turbine less than 150 feet in height and with a nameplate capacity less than 100 kilowatts.
    • Communication and electrical lines: 150% of total height plus rotor radius from the nearest aboveground public electric, telephone, or other utility line.
    • Property line, public roads and road rights-of-way, and railroad rights-of-way: 150% of total height.
    • Minimum ground-to-rotor-blade clearance: 15 feet.

    communication and electrical line setback: 150% of total height plus rotor radius (From the nearest aboveground public electric, telephone, or utility line.) · property-line setback: 150% of total height · public-road and road-right-of-way setback: 150% of total height · railroad-right-of-way setback: 150% of total height · rotor-blade ground clearance: >= 15 feet

    “K. Setbacks: Each wind turbine less than one hundred fifty feet (150') in height and nameplate less than one hundred (100) kilowatts shall comply with the following requirements:1. Communication And Electrical Lines: One hundred fifty percent (150%) of its total height plus the size of the rotor radius from the nearest aboveground public electric Clark line, telephone line or utility line of any kind.2. Property Line: One hundred fifty percent (150%) of its total height from the nearest property line3. Public Roads And Road Rights Of Way: One hundred fifty percent (150%) of its total height.4. Railroad Rights Of Way: One hundred fifty percent (150%) of its total height.5. Clearance: The minimum distance between the ground and any part of the rotor blade system shall be fifteen feet (15').”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Eastern Idaho Public Health administration of onsite sewage disposal in Clark County, within the health district service area.

    • Eastern Idaho Public Health identifies Clark County among the counties it serves.
    • The program operates under Idaho subsurface sewage disposal rules.
    “Serving Bonneville, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, and Teton Counties [...] To achieve the Health District’s objectives in this program we: Review applications for disposing of waste water, Perform onsite evaluations, Issue waste water permits, Conduct inspections”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Septic administration for Clark County through Eastern Idaho Public Health, under Idaho subsurface-sewage rules.
      “Serving Bonneville, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, and Teton Counties [...] To achieve the Health District’s objectives in this program we: * Review applications for disposing of waste water, * Perform onsite evaluations, * Issue waste water permits, * Conduct inspections,”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Modification, repair, construction, or installation of individual or subsurface sewage disposal systems in Clark County.

    • A valid installation permit is required.
    • Portable non-discharging systems may be used temporarily.
    • Repair of individual systems is excepted when needed because of broken or clogged solid piping or electrical or mechanical malfunction, but the repair may not expand the system unless authorized.
    • EIPH requires a completed application, plot plan, building plan, and payment; the permit is valid for two years and may be renewed for $50.

    permit validity: 2 years (Renewal available at an additional $50 fee)

    “It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or to perform the modifications, repair or construction of any individual or subsurface sewage disposal system within the State of Idaho unless there is a valid installation permit authorizing that activity.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Modification, repair, or construction of an individual or subsurface sewage disposal system serving Clark County.
      ““It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or to perform the modifications, repair or construction of any individual or subsurface sewage disposal system within the State of Idaho unless there is a valid installation permit authorizing that activity.” The only exceptions to this rule are: 1) Portable non-discharging systems may be used on a temporary basis, and 2) individual subsurface sewage disposal systems may be repaired when needed as the result of broken or clogged solid piping or malfunctions in an electrical or mechanical system. Such repair may not expand the system unless authorized.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Septic systems in Clark County administered by Eastern Idaho Public Health.

    • Final inspection by an Environmental Health Specialist is mandatory before covering.
    • Systems covered before inspection must be uncovered for inspection.
    • EIPH requires 48 hours' notice to schedule an inspection.

    inspection notice: >= 48 hours

    “Final Inspection Mandatory: It is necessary to have the system inspected by an Environmental Health Specialist prior to covering in order to determine if the system was installed in accordance with the issued permit. It is the owner’s or installer’s responsibility to call for final inspection. Systems covered prior to final inspection will be required to be uncovered for final inspection.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Individual and subsurface sewage systems in Clark County administered through Eastern Idaho Public Health.
      “5. Final Inspection Mandatory: It is necessary to have the system inspected by an Environmental Health Specialist prior to covering in order to determine if the system was installed in accordance with the issued permit. It is the owner’s or installer’s responsibility to call for final inspection. Systems covered prior to final inspection will be required to be uncovered for final inspection.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    All new subdivisions in Clark County within Eastern Idaho Public Health’s service area, for public-health review of wastewater disposal suitability.

    • EIPH reviews all new subdivisions for land suitability for waste disposal to protect public health and the environment.
    • An EHS works with each county on land-development proposals to help ensure compliance with applicable public-health laws and rules.
    • The source describes health-district review; it does not establish that EIPH administers every county or municipal subdivision-approval requirement.
    “Serving Bonneville, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, and Teton Counties [...] The Environmental Health Division has regulatory responsibility to review all new subdivisions”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Floodplain development permitting in Clark County.

    • The county index lists a Floodplain Development Permit Application-2020; current numeric floodplain standards and expiration rules were not verified from an opened ordinance page.
    “Floodplain Development Permit Application-2020”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Clark County planning and zoning fees published through the county ordinances page.

    • The page lists a Planning & Zoning Fee Resolution and Updated Resolution 2017 fees; the current operative fee amounts and effective date were not established from the opened page.
    “Planning & Zoning Fee Resolution Updated Flood Ordinance for State Review New updated Definitions Hearing Notice for Flood Ordinance Updated Resolution 2017 fees”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Clark County planning and zoning fee information.
      “Planning & Zoning Fee Resolution Updated Flood Ordinance for State Review New updated Definitions Hearing Notice for Flood Ordinance Updated Resolution 2017 fees”
  • Permit processPartial

    Clark County planning and zoning permit application process.

    • The official page lists application forms for appeals, building permits, site plans, conditional uses, amendments, lot adjustments, floodplain permits, lot splits, plats, variances, zone changes, and approach permits.
    • The page does not itself state the complete current processing steps, fees, deadlines, exceptions, or effective dates.
    “Ordinance Applications (click to download) Appeal Application Building Permit Application-2020 Site Plan Requirements and Example Comprehensive Plan Amendment Conditional Use Permit Application Development Code Amendment Lot Line Adjustment Application Floodplain Development Permit Application-2020 Lot Split Permit Application Preliminary Plat Application Subdivision Application Variance Application Zone Change Application Approach Permit Application”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Clark County planning, zoning, subdivision, floodplain, and building-related application process materials.
      “Ordinance Applications (click to download) Appeal Application Building Permit Application-2020 Site Plan Requirements and Example Comprehensive Plan Amendment Conditional Use Permit Application Development Code Amendment Lot Line Adjustment Application Floodplain Development Permit Application-2020 Lot Split Permit Application Preliminary Plat Application Subdivision Application Variance Application Zone Change Application Approach Permit Application”

Idaho rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Homeowners personally performing plumbing work on their own residential premises in Idaho.

    • The homeowner must own the residential property and personally perform the permitted work.
    • The homeowner permit is valid only for a primary or secondary residence and associated outbuildings.
    • Associated outbuildings must not be used for commercial purposes or rented by a tenant.
    • The homeowner must accept responsibility for all work performed.
    • All work must be inspected by the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
    • A plumbing permit must be obtained by application to the Division.
    • The application must be submitted with payment.
    • The application form states that an additional $65 fee may be assessed if the location is not clearly provided by directions or an attached map.
    • The application was revised 8/17/2022; this revision date is not treated as an effective date.

    unclear-location fee: 65 USD (May be assessed if the location is not clearly given by directions or an attached map.)

    “I certify that I am the owner of the residential property and will personally perform the work covered by this permit.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — An owner performing their own construction work on the owner's own land in Idaho.
      “A: Any person who engages in a construction job with a dollar amount exceeding $2000.00 (materials & labor) and is not otherwise exempt (The exemptions are listed below); [...] Owners: Owners who do their own work on their own land and do not intend to sell the property within 12 months are exempt from registration.”
    • Conditional — An Idaho homeowner undertaking construction or trade work for which a state-administered permit process applies.
      “Public (Homeowners Only) [...] *Public: “Homeowner” is pre-selected. [...] Once payment is processed, you may choose “Request Inspection” and/or “Print Permit””
    • Conditional — Owners performing construction work on their own land in Idaho under the state contractor-registration system.
      “Owners who do their own work on their own land and do not intend to sell the property within 12 months are exempt from registration.”
    • Conditional — Homeowners personally performing electrical work on a primary or secondary residence and related outbuildings in Idaho.
      “Homeowners may purchase a permit only when they themselves are doing electrical work on their primary or secondary residence and/or related outbuildings.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    All manufactured-home installations in Idaho before the manufactured home is occupied.

    • The inspection and approval are performed by DOPL or the authority having jurisdiction.
    • Inspection and approval must occur before occupancy.
    “All installations must be inspected and approved by the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses or the authority having jurisdiction before the manufactured home is occupied.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping or parking a vehicle or trailer on Idaho Fish and Game Wildlife Management Areas and access sites separate from a WMA.

    • The restriction applies in areas posted against camping or parking.
    • Leaving an unattended camp, vehicle, or trailer for more than 48 hours is prohibited without authorization.
    • Camping or parking for more than 10 days during any 30-day period on one WMA or one separate access site is prohibited without authorization.
    • The rule permits authorization by the Commission, Director, Regional Supervisor, or designee.

    unattended duration: > 48 hours (Unless specifically authorized by the Commission, Director, Regional Supervisor, or designee.) · camping or parking duration: > 10 days during any 30-day period per WMA or separate access site (Unless specifically authorized by the Commission, Director, Regional Supervisor, or designee.)

    “camp or park a vehicle or trailer for more than ten (10) days during any thirty (30) day period”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Occupancy of manufactured homes installed in Idaho.

    • For new homes in areas without an approved local building program, an installation permit and installation tag are required before installation begins.
    • All installations must be inspected and approved by DOPL or the authority having jurisdiction before the manufactured home is occupied.
    • Manufactured homes are for residential use only and are regulated under federal manufactured-housing standards plus state and local requirements.
    “An installation permit and installation tag (required only for new homes) is required by Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses prior to starting the installation in areas where there is not an approved local building program. All installations must be inspected and approved by the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses or the authority having jurisdiction before the manufactured home is occupied.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units for Idaho DEQ wastewater-flow and septic-system sizing purposes; this claim does not establish statewide zoning permission.

    • An ADU is sized as a single-family dwelling for the cited wastewater-flow guidance.
    • An ADU may combine flows with another structure into one system.
    • Any common septic tank must be large enough to hold the required capacity from both structures.
    • Local land-use, building, and septic authorities may impose additional requirements.

    wastewater flow basis: single-family dwelling

    “Size as a single family dwelling. Can combine with another structure's flows into one system”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Installing, modifying, repairing or expanding individual or subsurface sewage disposal systems (septic) anywhere in Idaho, including off-grid homes

    • A valid installation permit is required before any person modifies, repairs, expands or installs an individual or subsurface sewage disposal system, except as listed in subsection 005.02.
    • Exceptions (005.02): portable nondischarging systems may be installed as temporary blackwaste or wastewater systems if properly maintained and of a design approved by the director; repairs for clogged or broken solid piping or electrical/mechanical malfunctions are allowed without a permit, but repairs may not expand the system unless authorized by the director.
    • Excepted activities remain subject to all other relevant rules and regulations.
    • Where this rule conflicts with state or local zoning, building, fire, safety or health regulation, the provision that in the director's judgment sets the higher health and safety standard prevails.
    • Permit becomes invalid if construction is not completed and approved within two years of issuance unless otherwise stated; may be renewed at director's discretion.
    • Director may deny where public or central wastewater treatment facilities are reasonably accessible.
    • Permit fee is set under IDAPA 58.01.14.
    • Rules are administered through the health districts under DEQ; the director may require operation, maintenance and monitoring conditions in the permit.

    installation permit validity: 2 years (unless otherwise stated on the application or permit; renewable at director's discretion)

    “01. permit required. except as specified in subsection 005.02 no person may modify, repair or expand or install any individual or subsurface sewage disposal system within the state of idaho unless there is a valid installation permit authorizing that activity.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction or drilling of wells in Idaho, including domestic wells.

    • Before drilling, the well owner or driller must obtain a drilling permit from IDWR.
    • All wells must be constructed by a well driller with a valid IDWR license.
    • The separate water-right permit exemption for domestic purposes does not eliminate the drilling-permit requirement.
    • For new diversions in qualifying subdivisions filed on or after July 1, 2025, a water-right permit is required in a moratorium area, critical groundwater area, or groundwater management area, except for in-home uses and watering livestock.
    • Well construction rules apply to wells and other artificial openings more than 18 vertical feet below land surface.

    well depth threshold: > 18 vertical feet below land surface (The cited well-construction rules describe covered wells and artificial openings.) · subdivision application date: >= 2025-07-01 (Applies to qualifying new diversions described in Idaho Code § 42-227(4).)

    “Prior to drilling a well, the well owner or well driller must first obtain a drilling permit from IDWR.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Drilling wells in Clark County under Idaho Department of Water Resources rules.
      “Prior to drilling a well, the well owner or well driller must first obtain a drilling permit from IDWR. All wells must be constructed by a well driller with a valid license from IDWR.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Proposed individual or subsurface sewage disposal systems where public or central wastewater treatment facilities may be available.

    • The Director may deny a septic permit when public or central wastewater treatment facilities are reasonably accessible.
    • The cited rule does not establish a universal statewide requirement to connect every property to public sewer.
    • Subsurface septic discharge remains an identified onsite disposal method.
    “Public or central wastewater treatment facilities are reasonably accessible.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural buildings (barns, livestock shelters, sheds, silos, greenhouses, etc.) from the state building codes enforced by local governments

    • Excludes a place of human habitation (space for living, sleeping, or cooking)
    • Excludes a place of employment where agricultural products are processed, treated, or packaged
    • Excludes a place used by the public
    • A county may issue permits for agricultural buildings only to assure compliance with road setbacks and utility easements, at no more than actual cost
    • Counties may not impose size limits, maximum exit travel distances, or sprinkler requirements on agricultural buildings
    “local governments shall exempt agricultural buildings from the requirements of the codes enumerated in this chapter and the rules promulgated by the board. a county may issue permits for agricultural buildings to assure compliance with road setbacks and utility easements, provided that the cost for such permits shall not exceed the actual cost to the county of issuing the permits.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural buildings as defined in Idaho Code 39-4116(5), exempt from the state-enumerated building codes and board rules
      “local governments shall exempt agricultural buildings from the requirements of the codes enumerated in this chapter and the rules promulgated by the board. a county may issue permits for agricultural buildings to assure compliance with road setbacks and utility easements, provided that the cost for such permits shall not exceed the actual cost to the county of issuing the permits.”
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    One-story detached accessory structures regulated under the state-adopted 2018 Idaho Residential Code for one- and two-family dwellings.

    • The Idaho Building Code Board's current rule adopts the 2018 International Residential Code, Parts I, II, III, and IX, with Idaho amendments, for one- and two-family dwellings.
    • The cited exemption is from the residential-code building-permit requirement; it does not itself authorize work that violates local land-use, zoning, utility, trade-permit, or other requirements.
    • Building-code and placement-site jurisdiction may be exercised by the applicable city or county.

    maximum floor area for one-story detached accessory structure permit exemption: <= 200 square feet (Applies to the residential-code exemption for one-story detached accessory structures.)

    “One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Private and public driveways or streets connecting to Idaho state highway right-of-way.

    • An ITD encroachment permit is required for private and public approaches, including driveways and streets.
    • No activity may occur on state highway rights-of-way until the Department or a delegated local highway agency issues an approved permit, except emergency approval affecting highway operations and motorist safety may precede processing.
    • A Traffic Impact Study may be required for new or expanded development seeking direct access to a state highway when the stated thresholds are met, unless waived by the District Engineer.

    peak-hour trips for possible TIS requirement: >= 100 new trips (unless waived by the District Engineer) · daily traffic for possible TIS requirement: >= 1000 vehicles per day (unless waived by the District Engineer)

    “Encroachment permits approved by the Department are required for private and public approaches (driveways and streets), utilities and other miscellaneous encroachments.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Temporary camping in Idaho State Parks administered by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

    • Camping is permitted only in designated areas.
    • Stays are limited to 14 nights in a 30-day period; the same page's FAQ separately states a 15-day limit, creating an unresolved internal discrepancy.
    • Individual-site occupancy is limited to one family unit or no more than 8 persons unless otherwise specified; companion-site and site-design restrictions apply.
    • Camping is not permitted on beaches, parking lots, or day-use facilities.
    • Check-in is at 2 p.m. for campsites and checkout is at 1 p.m.; late checkouts may incur additional fees unless prior arrangements have been made.

    state-park stay limit: 14 nights in 30 days (FAQ on the same page states 15 days in any 30-day period) · individual-site people limit: <= 8 people (one family unit or site-specific limits may apply)

    “Camping is permitted only in designated areas. [...] Stays are limited to 14 nights in a 30-day period.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Idaho counties adopting zoning for unincorporated areas through their boards of county commissioners.

    • A board of county commissioners is a governing board and may exercise the powers authorized by the Local Land Use Planning Act.
    • The county board's powers under the chapter apply to the unincorporated area of the county.
    • Zoning must be adopted, amended, or repealed by ordinance using the notice and hearing procedures in Idaho Code § 67-6509.
    • Zoning districts must conform to the adopted comprehensive plan.
    • Within zoning districts, standards may regulate or restrict building height, number of stories, size, construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair or use of buildings and structures; lot occupancy; courts, yards and open spaces; population density; and building and structure location and use.
    • Standards must be uniform for each class or kind of building throughout each district, but may differ between districts.
    • Overlay zoning districts require clear and objective standards and must not constitute a regulatory taking under Idaho or federal law.
    “The powers of the board of county commissioners conferred by this chapter shall apply to the unincorporated area of the county.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Idaho counties' authority to adopt and enforce building codes and require permits for residential construction in unincorporated areas when the county operates a building-code enforcement program.

    • The statute defines local government as any city or county of Idaho.
    • A local government that had not previously implemented a code-enforcement program may elect to implement one by ordinance evidencing its intent to do so.
    • Construction in a local-government jurisdiction enforcing building codes requires a permit under the applicable local ordinance.
    • A local government issuing permits and performing enforcement must adopt the specified state-adopted codes and may amend them only within the limits stated in Idaho Code § 39-4116(4).
    • Local amendments must generally provide at least an equivalent level of protection; accessibility amendments are restricted, and additional residential-code amendments require the statutory good-cause, necessity, ordinance, public-hearing, publication, and notice procedures.
    • Single-family homes and multiple-family dwellings up to two units are exempt from automatic fire-sprinkler requirements in the enumerated codes.
    • Agricultural buildings must be exempted; a county may issue farm-building permits only for road setbacks and utility easements, at no more than actual issuance cost.
    • Permits are governed by the laws in effect when the application is received.
    • The state division retains jurisdiction for in-plant inspections and installation standards for manufactured or mobile homes and for in-plant inspections and enforcement of modular-building and commercial-coach construction standards.
    “"Local government" means any city or county of this state.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy for buildings in Clark County.
  • Local zoning — Zoning administered by municipalities or other local authorities within Clark County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Clark County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Clark County.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in unincorporated Clark County.
3 more unanswered
  • Living in an RV
  • Tiny homes
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Clark County, Idaho

Is Clark County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Clark County scores 44/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and deep seclusion — about 882 people within 15 miles. Watch-outs: thin water margin (16.7″/yr rainfall) and elevated current hazard exposure.

How much does land cost in Clark County, Idaho?

Land in Clark County runs about $3,102 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Clark County?

Clark County gets about 16.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 15.3% of years.

How remote is Clark County?

A typical private-land location has about 882 people within 15 miles and 332,881 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Clark compares in Idaho

Compare side-by-side →See all 44 Idaho counties ranked →