Bolthole Index

Caribou County, Idaho

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Caribou County, Idaho

70Index Score / 100
#9 of 44 in Idaho

Unincorporated Caribou County, Idaho requires building permits for new construction, remodeling, expansions, and listed accessory, agricultural, and manufactured-building projects1. County zoning covers all unincorporated land, with standards set by the parcel's district23. Bancroft has its own building-permit requirements; septic permits in Caribou County come from Southeastern Idaho Public Health45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for county-administered construction, additions, shops, remodels, and agricultural structures; Bancroft has its own building-permit requirements14
Zoning
Yes throughout unincorporated areas; uses, dimensions, and approvals vary by zoning district23
Septic permits
Required for residential permits; Southeastern Idaho Public Health handles applications and onsite evaluations67
Minimum lot size
District-specific; Agricultural residential use requires 40 acres per dwelling, while the LIW district has no minimum lot size89
Setbacks (Agricultural district)
40 ft from an arterial road, 50 ft from a local or collector road, 30 ft rear yard, 20 ft side yard for a single-family residence10
RV living
One occupied travel trailer per lot, limited to 120 days per calendar year; a separate temporary-construction path can allow up to 12 months1112
Structural design minimums
36-inch frost depth, 60 psf roof snow load, 87 psf ground snow load, 115 mph wind design, seismic zone D113
Owner-builder exemption
State contractor-registration exemption for owners building on their own land; county permits, codes and inspections still apply14

Who to call

Building permits

Caribou County Building Department

Building permit applications, plan review, and inspections for additions, shops, remodels, agricultural structures, and other projects in Caribou County

(208)840-9910

rlarkins@caribouid.gov

Caribou County Courthouse, 159 South Main Street, Rm #100, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276

Online permits →

Zoning

Caribou County Planning & Zoning Department

Land-use applications, zoning district determinations, subdivisions, conditional use permits, and the comprehensive plan for unincorporated Caribou County

(208) 547-1780

hbarker@caribouid.gov

Caribou County Courthouse, 159 South Main Street, Rm #100, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276

Online permits →

Zoning

Caribou County Zoning Ordinance (Ord. 2019-02, amended Ord. 2020-01)

The zoning ordinance's district map, minimum lot sizes, setback tables, and rules for using a manufactured home or RV as a temporary residence during construction

Septic permits

Southeastern Idaho Public Health, Caribou County Office

Onsite wastewater (septic) permit intake and inspections for Caribou County properties, at the district's Soda Springs office

(208) 547-4375

55 East 1st South, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276

Septic permits

Southeastern Idaho Public Health, Septic/Onsite Wastewater Program

Sets the statewide fee schedule and technical guidance for septic permits SIPH's Caribou County office issues locally

208-233-9080

1901 Alvin Ricken Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Caribou County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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

Unincorporated Caribou County requires building permits for new construction, remodeling, expansions, and listed residential, accessory, prefabricated, carport, agricultural, and manufactured-building projects1. For one- and two-family dwellings in Caribou County, Idaho adopts Parts I, II, III, and IX of the 2018 International Residential Code with amendments, collectively named the Idaho Residential Code (2020 Edition); other building types may fall under the separately adopted International Building Code1516. County-permitted work must pass the applicable setback, footing, foundation, framing, insulation, sheet-rock, and final inspections before advancing through the phases17. Inspection requests require two business days' notice (48 hours), and missed inspections can trigger a stop-work order and rework at the owner's expense18. Final inspection occurs after the building is complete and before move-in, with final electrical, plumbing, and mechanical or HVAC approvals required; the county issues a certificate of occupancy when applicable19. Idaho exempts owners who do their own work on their own land, and do not intend to sell within 12 months, from contractor registration, but that exemption does not waive Caribou County building permits, zoning, septic or inspections14.

Who issues building permits in Caribou County, and how do you apply?

For county-administered building applications and inspections, contact the Caribou County Building Department; call (208)840-9910 or email rlarkins@caribouid.gov during its Monday-through-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-to-2:30 p.m. hours13. In-person applications go to the Caribou County Courthouse at 159 South Main Street, Rm #100, Soda Springs, Idaho 8327613. The Planning & Zoning Department uses the same courthouse room but has a separate line at (208) 547-1780 and email at hbarker@caribouid.gov; its hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.20. Applications may be sent by email or mail or delivered in person21. County review can take up to 10 business days, and processing starts only after staff verifies completeness and receives payment21. Building fees follow a statewide adopted schedule, while the zoning-permit application lists a $25 fee payable with the building permit; the amount can vary by permit and project22. Inside Bancroft, the city's own building-permit requirements apply before construction, alteration, or moving structures4. Septic permitting remains with Southeastern Idaho Public Health5.

Does Caribou County have zoning?

Caribou County zoning applies throughout unincorporated land, with uses and construction governed by the parcel's district223. Inside Grace and Bancroft, city zoning applies; both cities' zoning provisions also address impact areas, so ask Planning & Zoning which standards govern a parcel near city limits2425. Septic permitting remains with Southeastern Idaho Public Health5. Agricultural residential use requires one dwelling per 40 acres8. Other district-specific lot standards depend on septic and utility service; ask Planning & Zoning to identify the applicable district before relying on an acreage threshold83. The Light Industrial and Wholesale district has no minimum lot size, but lots must accommodate business functions without impeding road rights-of-way or the site triangle9. Setbacks depend on district, building type, use, and road right-of-way; structures generally must remain 100 feet from streams or riparian areas, except compliant approved culverts2627. Accessory dwelling units within single-family structures are permitted in at least one district, with district-specific approval still required28.

How do septic permits work in Caribou County?

A septic permit is required for every Caribou County residential permit that needs septic service; an addition instead needs a Southeastern Idaho Public Health letter confirming that the existing system can support it1. Idaho DEQ sets the statewide onsite-sewage rules, while Southeastern Idaho Public Health conducts site evaluations, issues permits, and inspects installations in Caribou County5. Apply through SIPH's Caribou County office at 55 East 1st South, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276, or call (208) 547-437529. A complete application needs a signed plot plan, deed or tax notice, fee, and onsite evaluation30. The applicant supplies test holes 8 to 10 feet deep, depending on soil type7. The SIPH page states $925 for a full site evaluation and permit if suitable but also lists $850 for a basic or complex permit, so confirm the current charge before applying30. Only 22.6% of county land is rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making an early evaluation useful31.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Caribou County?

Unincorporated Caribou County allows one occupied travel trailer per lot for no more than 120 days in a calendar year11. A separate construction option in unincorporated Caribou County lets an RV with a kitchen and bathroom serve as a temporary residence at the Planning and Zoning Administrator's discretion while a permanent site-built home is underway12. That option requires separate building and zoning permits and cannot start until the permanent home's foundation or basement walls pass inspection12. The RV must normally be vacated and removed within 12 months; stalled or abandoned home construction for 180 days voids both permits, and the commission may grant one one-year extension for circumstances outside the applicant's control12. A campground or RV park is only a conditional Agricultural-district use, not permission for unrestricted residence on an individual parcel32. We could not confirm a separate tiny-home rule or minimum dwelling floor area, so ask Planning & Zoning how a proposed tiny home would be classified and which district standards would apply3.

What are the steps to build a home in unincorporated Caribou County?

  1. Ask Planning & Zoning to confirm the mapped district, allowed use, lot standard, setbacks, and height limit382633.
  2. Arrange SIPH's required onsite evaluation and supply the application, plot plan, ownership record, fee, and test holes307.
  3. Ask the Idaho Department of Water Resources to distinguish well-drilling permits from domestic-use water-right exemptions for the parcel; wells require an IDWR-licensed driller3435.
  4. Submit the county application by email, mail, or in person and pay after completeness review so processing can begin21.
  5. Design for the county's 36-inch frost depth, 60 psf roof snow load, 87 psf ground snow load, 115 mph wind, and D1 seismic criteria13.
  6. If living in an RV during construction, obtain separate building and zoning permits and wait for the foundation or basement-wall inspection36.
  7. Obtain a state encroachment permit for access onto a state highway37.
  8. Schedule each county inspection with two business days' notice (48 hours) and complete final inspection before move-in; a certificate of occupancy is issued when applicable1738.

What should you check before buying land in Caribou County?

Start with the zoning map rather than acreage alone because lot size, setbacks, permitted uses, and height limits vary by district3982633. Verify streams and riparian areas on the building envelope because structures generally require a 100-foot separation27. Only 22.6% of Caribou County land is rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make SIPH's required site evaluation an early contingency317. Annual precipitation is about 22.8 inches, and severe drought occurs in 8.2% of years, so confirm the proposed water source and applicable approvals4041. An Agricultural-district subdivision must have a single access built to county standards connecting to a county-maintained road, while access to a state highway needs a state encroachment permit4237. We could not confirm a county floodplain-development rule for unincorporated land; ask Planning & Zoning about the parcel before closing20.

Watch-outs

  • Required county inspections are sequential; missing one can trigger a stop-work order and costly rework18.
  • Unincorporated Caribou County limits one occupied travel trailer per lot to 120 days per calendar year; the separate construction-residence approval normally has a 12-month removal deadline1136.

Sources

  1. Caribou County Building Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  2. cms7files.revize.com, quoted and re-checked
  3. Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  4. Bancroft: 10-2-3: Building Permit Requirements (Caribou County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Septic and Septage, quoted and re-checked
  6. Septic Permits, quoted and re-checked
  7. Septic Permits, quoted and re-checked
  8. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  9. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  10. Caribou County Zoning Ordinance (Ord. 2019-02, amended Ord. 2020-01) (cms7files.revize.com)
  11. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  12. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  13. Caribou County Building Department (cariboucounty.us)
  14. Frequently Asked Questions - Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, quoted and re-checked
  15. IDAPA 24.39.30 Rules of Building Safety, quoted and re-checked
  16. Idaho Adopted Codes, quoted and re-checked
  17. Caribou County Building Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  18. Building Checklist 2023, quoted and re-checked
  19. Building Checklist 2023, quoted and re-checked
  20. Caribou County Planning & Zoning Department (cariboucounty.us)
  21. Application and Forms, quoted and re-checked
  22. Caribou County Building Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  23. cms7files.revize.com, quoted and re-checked
  24. Grace: 3-1-1: Use Districts Established (Caribou County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Bancroft: official source (Caribou County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Zoning Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  27. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  28. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  29. Southeastern Idaho Public Health, Caribou County Office (siphidaho.org)
  30. Septic Permits, quoted and re-checked
  31. 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
  32. Zoning Book Ordinances Compiled, quoted and re-checked
  33. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  34. Wells Overview, quoted and re-checked
  35. Domestic Exemption, quoted and re-checked
  36. Caribou County Zoning Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan & AOI Agreements, quoted and re-checked
  37. Types of Right-of-Way Encroachment Permits (Idaho statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  38. Caribou County Building Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  39. cariboucounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  40. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Zoning Book Ordinances Compiled, quoted and re-checked

Written October 12, 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

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Caribou County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleCaribou CountyBannock CountyBear Lake CountyFranklin CountyBonneville CountyBingham CountyOneida County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsSIPHSoutheastern Idaho Public HealthSoutheastern Idaho Public HealthSIPHEIPHSoutheastern Idaho Public HealthSoutheastern Idaho Public Health

County locator

Caribou County in Idaho

70
County map
Caribou County highlighted among the Idaho counties · colored by Index score

How Caribou County scores

Seclusion86100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency47100% ev.
Admin Boringness4090% ev.
Durability53100% ev.
Property Autonomy90100% ev.
Carry Cost81100% 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 →

$341kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$2,587Land / acre
22.8"Annual rain
8.2% of yrsSevere drought
0.4 / yr (+0.4)Mid-century 100°F days
21.4 daysMid-century dry spell
0.9" (+5.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.18×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,315Home insurance / yr
6.3% / yrInsurance growth
1.75%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
3,609People within 30 min
449,826People within 2 hr
4,704Radius comparison (15 mi)
4.1People / sq mi
42.3%Federal land
46.2%Land at 15% slope or less
22.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
233,900 acWorkable land screen
44%Wooded land
31.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Caribou 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 researched: Soda Springs

Answers from the rulebook for Caribou County

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

Caribou County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New construction, remodeling, expansion, and listed residential, accessory, prefabricated, carport, agricultural, and manufactured-building projects administered by Caribou County.

    • The application must be complete and include required documentation.
    • Applications are submitted to the Caribou County Building Department by email, mail, or in person.
    • The Building Inspector reviews the permit and notifies the applicant whether it is approved and what the fee is; review may take up to 10 business days.
    • All fees must be paid before work begins.
    • Residential permits require a septic permit; additions require a Southeastern Idaho Health Department letter confirming the septic system supports the addition.
    • After approval, required inspections must be completed; 48 hours' advance notice is required for requested inspection times.

    permit review time: <= 10 business days · inspection notice: 48 hours

    “You’re wanting to build something new on your property, remodel or expand. Here is the checklist of the process from start to finish! All Building Step 1) Building Permit - Building permits can be found online at https://www.cariboucounty.us/departments/building_planning_zoning/applications.php or picked up at the Building Department office, 159 S Main St Rm #100, Soda Springs, Id 83276. Select the permit for the type of project you’re doing (residential, accessory, prefabricated, carport, agricultural, manufactured, etc.).”
  • InspectionsRequired

    County building-permit inspections for applicable construction phases.

    • Required phases include setback when required, footing, foundation, framing, insulation, sheet rock, and final inspection.
    • A two-business-day, 48-hour notice is required for requested inspection times.
    • Failure to obtain required inspections may result in a stop-work order and rework at the owner's cost.

    inspection notice: 48 hours

    “When your building permit is approved you are required to have inspections for the following phases of the process. You cannot move onto the next phase until you have been approved to do so by the Building Inspector.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — County building inspections for permitted construction in unincorporated Caribou County.
      “When your building permit is approved you are required to have inspections for the following phases of the process. You cannot move onto the next phase until you have been approved to do so by the Building Inspector. Failure to have the required inspections will cause a “Stop Work Order” to be issued, and may require you to re-do some of the work at your cost.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Final inspection and occupancy of permitted structures in unincorporated Caribou County.

    • The checklist states that a certificate of occupancy is issued if applicable.
    • Final inspection occurs prior to moving in and after finish grade and building completion.
    • Final electrical, plumbing, and mechanical/HVAC finals must be issued.
    “Certificate of Occupancy issued, if applicable.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Final building inspection and occupancy of applicable county-permitted structures.
      “Certificate of Occupancy issued, if applicable.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning ordinance and zoning districts in unincorporated Caribou County.

    • Specific uses, dimensional standards, and approvals vary by zoning district.
    “all of the unincorporated areas of the county.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — County zoning ordinance in unincorporated Caribou County.
      “all of the unincorporated areas of the county”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land, buildings, and structures in the unincorporated areas of Caribou County.

    • The county zoning ordinance applies to all unincorporated areas of the county.
    • Land uses and construction must conform to regulations applicable to the zoning district in which the land is located, except as otherwise provided in the ordinance.
    • Caribou County's Planning & Zoning division processes land-use applications in unincorporated Caribou County.
    “The zoning ordinance shall apply to all of the unincorporated areas of the county.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning districts and district-specific use and development standards in unincorporated Caribou County.

    • The county website links a Zoning District Map.
    • The compiled ordinance includes district-specific permitted and conditional uses, setbacks, lot standards, and other controls.
    • The compiled document was printed January 30, 2020 and includes the 2020 amendment to the 2019 zoning ordinance.
    “Development Services Building Department Planning & Zoning Department Zoning District Map”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — County zoning districts and official zoning map for unincorporated Caribou County.
      “Planning & Zoning Department Zoning District Map”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Minimum lot sizes in county zoning districts and special subdivision areas.

    • Agricultural residential uses require one dwelling per 40 acres.
    • In the district-specific provisions reviewed, lot sizes depend on septic and community utility service.
    • Two-family and multifamily lots require an additional acre per additional dwelling unit in the cited district.

    agricultural residential minimum: per 40 acres per dwelling · standard septic minimum in cited district: 5 acres · nitrate-reducing septic minimum in cited district: 2.5 acres · community water and central sewer minimum in cited district: 0.5 acres

    “One dwelling unit shall be permitted for each forty (40) acres of land in a single ownership.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Setbacks under Caribou County zoning, including district and subdivision-specific rules.

    • All structures must be 100 feet from a stream or riparian area except approved culverts complying with county and other applicable jurisdiction requirements.
    • Caribou Blue Landing and Blackfoot Harbor have additional 25-foot front, 5-foot side, and 10-foot rear setbacks, plus high-water-line rules and possible restrictive-covenant requirements.

    riparian setback: 100 feet (approved culverts meeting county and other jurisdiction requirements) · Blue Landing and Blackfoot Harbor front setback: 25 feet (measured from surveyed road right-of-way edge) · Blue Landing and Blackfoot Harbor side setback: 5 feet · Blue Landing and Blackfoot Harbor rear setback: 10 feet

    “All structures shall be one hundred (100) feet from any stream or riparian area, with the exception of approved culverts which comply with all requirements of the Caribou County Office of Planning and Zoning Department, as well as any other recognized jurisdiction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Building setbacks under Caribou County zoning.
      “Setbacks are determined by which zone the property is in as well as the type of building and intended use. Setbacks are measured from the edge of the Right-of-way.”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Maximum structure heights under district-specific zoning tables.

    • The cited table applies to the district and use categories shown in the ordinance; other districts may differ.
    • Agricultural and farm-animal structures in the cited table have a 35-foot maximum structure height.

    maximum structure height in cited district table: 35 feet (district and use category dependent)

    “Maximum Structure Ht. (ft.) Single- and Two-Family Residences 30 50 20 10 35 Residential accessory structures 30 50 20 (a) 10 (a) 35 Non-residential buildings 30 50 20 (b) 20 (b) 35 Agricultural and Farm Animal Structures 30 50 30 30 35”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    One occupied travel trailer placed on a lot in any zoning district in unincorporated Caribou County.

    • Only one occupied travel trailer may be placed on a lot.
    • Occupancy may not exceed 120 days within any calendar year.
    • Violation of the 120-day limitation is subject to the fines and penalties outlined in the ordinance.
    • The zoning ordinance applies to unincorporated areas of Caribou County; incorporated municipalities may have separate rules.

    maximum occupied placement: <= 120 days per calendar year (One occupied travel trailer per lot)

    “one hundred and twenty (120) days within any calendar year.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — A recreational vehicle containing a kitchen and bathroom used as a temporary residence in unincorporated Caribou County while a permanent site-built residence is under construction or during rehabilitation after fire or another natural disaster.
      “a recreational vehicle [...] may [...] be used as a temporary residence”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Use of a recreational vehicle as a temporary residence while a permanent site-built residence is under construction or being rehabilitated.
      “A manufactured house or a recreational vehicle containing a kitchen and a bathroom may, at the discretion of the Planning and Zoning Administrator, be used as a temporary residence while a permanent site-built residence is under construction, or during rehabilitation due to fire or other natural disaster, if the applicant is able to obtain a building permit for construction of a permanent residence.”
    • Limited — RV parks and campgrounds in county zoning districts.
      “Campground/Recreational Vehicle (RV) Park”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units within single-family structures in the county zoning ordinance.

    • The reviewed use table identifies accessory dwelling units within single-family structures as a permitted use in at least one zoning district; district-specific conditions and permits still apply.
    • The source does not establish countywide permission across every zoning district.
    “Accessory dwelling units within single-family structures.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage disposal systems serving property in Caribou County within the Southeastern Idaho Public Health service area.

    • Idaho DEQ establishes the statewide rules and the public health districts administer them under an MOU with DEQ.
    • The health district conducts site evaluations, issues permits, and inspects installations.
    “public health districts administer these rules”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Individual and subsurface wastewater systems serving property in Caribou County.

    • A complete, signed, dated application and plot plan are required.
    • A warranty deed or tax notice and applicable fee must be submitted.
    • An onsite evaluation is required for all applications.
    • The current page lists a full site-evaluation-and-permit fee of $925, while the fee table lists $850 for basic or complex systems; fees are subject to change.

    full site evaluation and permit fee: 925 USD (if site is suitable; fees subject to change) · basic or complex sewage disposal permit: 850 USD (fees subject to change)

    “Full Permit fee of $925 for Site Evaluation and Permit if site is suitable”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Individual and subsurface sewage disposal systems in Caribou County.
      “To have a septic system installed, the property owner must obtain a permit from a public health district. The property owner should have a site evaluation performed by the public health district and a licensed septic system installer before purchasing property and applying for a permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite evaluation of proposed septic systems in Caribou County.

    • The property owner or applicant must provide test holes.
    • Test holes must be 8-10 feet deep depending on soil type.

    test-hole depth: 8-10 feet (depending on soil type)

    “AN ONSITE EVALUATION WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ALL APPLICATIONS. The property owner/applicant is required to provide the test holes for the evaluation. The test holes must be a minimum of 8-10 feet deep depending on the soil type.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Access for subdivisions in the Agricultural zoning district.

    • The access must be built to county standards and connect to a county-maintained road.
    • The ordinance states the subdivision shall have a single access.

    subdivision access count: 1 access (Agricultural district)

    “Subdivision shall have a single access, built to county standards, to a county-maintained road.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    County building-permit and zoning-permit fee information.

    • The building checklist states that fees are determined by a statewide adopted fee schedule and must be paid before work begins.
    • The zoning-permit application states a $25 fee, payable with the building permit.
    • Fees may vary by permit type and project.

    zoning permit fee: 25 USD (can be paid with building permit)

    “This may take up to 10 business days. Fees are determined by a State-wide adopted fee schedule. All fees must be paid before work begins.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building and planning/zoning application submission and review process.

    • Applications may be submitted by email, mail, or in person.
    • Processing begins only after completeness verification and payment.
    • The county may take up to 10 business days to review a building permit.

    building permit review period: <= 10 business days (county checklist estimate)

    “Applications may be submitted by email, mail, or in person. Once our Permitting Team receives your application and verifies that it is complete, payment will be required. Applications are considered officially submitted only after payment has been received, and processing will begin only then.”

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.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — An owner performing construction work on the owner's own land in Caribou County, to the extent the question concerns exemption from Idaho contractor registration.
      “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.”
    • 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.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building projects in Idaho, including projects in Caribou County to the extent the county enforces building codes under the Idaho Building Code Act.

    • The state-adopted building codes include the 2018 International Building Code with amendments.
    • The Idaho Residential Code consists of the 2018 International Residential Code parts I, II, III and IX with Idaho amendments, identified as the 2020 Edition.
    • Local governments that issue building permits and perform building-code enforcement must adopt the applicable codes by ordinance effective January 1 of the year following state-board adoption.
    • Local governments may amend adopted codes only within the limits stated in Idaho Code section 39-4116; amendments must provide at least an equivalent level of protection, and specified residential-code amendments require additional statutory findings and public-hearing procedures.
    • Single-family homes and multiple-family dwellings up to two units are exempted from state-adopted provisions requiring automatic fire sprinklers, although voluntary installation is allowed.

    International Building Code edition: 2018 (with Idaho amendments) · International Residential Code parts: I, II, III and IX (with Idaho amendments; collectively named the Idaho Residential Code (2020 Edition)) · local-government adoption deadline: January 1 of the year following state-board adoption

    “Building Codes: 2018 International Building Code, with amendments 2018 International Residential Code (parts I, II, III and IX), with Idaho amendments collectively named the Idaho Residential Code (2020 Edition)”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Idaho building-code requirements, including the 2018 International Residential Code Parts I, II, III, and IX for one- and two-family dwellings, as adopted by the Idaho Building Code Board and applicable to construction in Caribou County.
      “Pursuant to Sections 39-4109 and 39-4109A, Idaho Code, the Board adopts the following international codes with identified amendments: (7-1-24) [...] 03. International Residential Code, 2018 Edition. Parts I, II, III, and IX of the 2018 Edition for one (1)- and two (2)- family dwellings, with the following amendments: (7-1-24)”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building construction in Idaho subject to the Idaho Building Code Act and the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses building-code program.
      “Building Codes: 2018 International Building Code, with amendments 2018 International Residential Code (parts I, II, III and IX), with Idaho amendments collectively named the Idaho Residential Code (2020 Edition) 2018 International Energy Conservation Code, with amendments collectively named the Idaho Energy Conservation Code (2020 Edition) 2018 International Existing Building Code”
    • Adopted — Statewide Idaho building-code adoption framework applicable to local governments, including counties that enforce building codes.
      “The following codes are hereby adopted for the state of Idaho division of building safety”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Well drilling in Idaho, including Caribou County, where the domestic-use exemption does not apply.
      “Prior to drilling a well, the well owner or well driller must first obtain a drilling permit from IDWR.”
    • Limited — Domestic-purpose wells in Idaho, including Caribou County.
      “Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, excavation and opening of wells and the withdrawal of water therefrom for domestic purposes or uses”
  • 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.”
  • 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.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum habitable floor area or dwelling size for residential dwellings in unincorporated Caribou County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage standards in unincorporated Caribou County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Caribou County.
  • Off-grid sanitation — Off-grid sanitation systems in unincorporated Caribou County.
  • Agricultural exemption — Agricultural exemptions from county building, zoning, or land-use requirements.
2 more unanswered
  • Building in a floodplain
  • 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.

Water rights & wells in Caribou County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Idaho’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Groundwater for domestic purposes up to 13,000 gpd is exempt from permitting; critical-area and moratorium closures generally target new PERMITTED (non-exempt) appropriations, so a household can still drill a domestic-exempt well even inside a critical groundwater area.

Limit: 13,000 gpd (homes, stockwater, irrigation of ≤0.5 acre) under Idaho Code 42-227

Idaho Dept of Water Resources — Domestic Exemption ↗

Prior-appropriation state (first in time, first in right). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Idaho state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Caribou County, Idaho

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

Caribou County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and deep seclusion — about 3,609 people within a 30-minute drive. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Caribou County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Southeastern Idaho Public Health (SIPH). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Caribou County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Caribou County is limited to specific cases: One occupied travel trailer placed on a lot in any zoning district in unincorporated Caribou County. Only one occupied travel trailer may be placed on a lot. Occupancy may not exceed 120 days within any calendar year. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Caribou County, Idaho?

Land in Caribou County runs about $2,587 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Caribou County?

Caribou County gets about 22.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.2% of years. On water rights, Caribou County lies in the Bear River Ground Water Management Area — Designated 2001; new appropriations must demonstrate sufficient supply without injuring senior rights. Domestic-exempt wells allowed..

How remote is Caribou County?

A representative private-land location has about 3,609 people within a 30-minute drive and 449,826 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Caribou compares in Idaho

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