Frequently Asked Questions

Some County launches require a fee, visit our Boat Launch Fees page for more information. View list of launches.

A fee is not required to park at a County boat launch; however you cannot park in a "vehicles with trailer only" space unless you are towing a boat trailer. Contact us at 208-446-1275 for more information.

A fee is not required to launch without a trailer; however you cannot park in a "vehicles with trailer only" space. Contact us at 208-446-1275 for further information.

Parking and moorage is limited to 48 hours in a 72 hour period unless otherwise posted. Any more questions on parking or mooring can be directed to the Parks and Waterways department at 208-446-1275.

The Idaho State Parks pass is only valid at State owned facilities; not County managed launches. Learn more on our Boat Launches page.

In order to request a change to Kootenai County Waterways Ordinance or other matters affecting a public waterway, one of the following conditions must apply: 

    A permanent underwater hazard is present on a public waterway and should be marked for the safety of the general boating public. Examples: submerged rock formations, sandbars, or other permanent natural structures, which could cause damage too persons or vessels.

    Marinas with twenty-five (25) or more slips, which provide services to the public such as moorage, fuel, and other services. 

    Public or “semi-public” swim areas located in high traffic boating areas where more than fifty (50) swimmers may be present. “Semi-public” swim areas may include Boy/Girl Scout camps, church camps, and other 501-C3 non-profit organizations that allow the general public to attend programs and utilize swim area.

    Unique conditions are present that create a significant hazard to public safety, as determined by the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office. Requests shall include a signed letter from the Sheriff’s Office to the Board of County Commissioners stating the specific recommendation, to include supporting accident and citation data relevant to the request. 

THE PROCESS:

1.    If the request meets one of the approved conditions, you need to contact the Parks and Waterways Department to request that your item be placed on the next Waterways Advisory Board meeting agenda. (208)446-1275 or kcparks@kcpws.com

2.    The requesting party is required to attend the Waterways Advisory Board meeting to present the request. Presentations are limited to five-minutes. Information relevant to your request, such as maps, photos or other materials, should be submitted by email (kcparks@kcgov.us) at least five business days in advance of the meeting.

3.    The Waterways Advisory Board will make a recommendation on the request to the Board of County Commissioners. This will occur in a meeting with the Commissioners, which is typically scheduled within two-weeks of the Waterways Advisory Board meeting.

4.    In cases where the request involves placement of buoys for a privately owned marina or “semi-public” swim area, the requesting party will be responsible for all costs associated with the activity, and will be required to enter into an agreement with the County for long-term maintenance costs. 

The Idaho Department of Lands permits the installation of docks on navigable waters within the State of Idaho.  For encroachment permit applications, contact their office at:
3706 Industrial Avenue S
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
Phone: 208-769-1577.

The boater safety course is not required, however you are encouraged to learn about boater safety. Access more information from the Idaho Parks and Recreation Department.

Agency Phone Numbers

• Bureau of Land Management Phone: 208-769-5000
• Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Phone: 208-769-1511
• City of Coeur d'Alene Phone: 208-769-2252
• City of Post Falls Phone: 208-773-0539
• U.S. Forest Service Phone: 208-765-7223
• Idaho Department of Lands Phone: 208-769-1577

Kootenai County Parks and Waterways does not have jurisdiction over private water use. The responsibilities of our department include maintaining safe and navigable waterways, boating access (public launches and docks), providing marine pump-outs on area lakes, and the maintenance and improvement of various parks and trails in Kootenai County. To contact North Kootenai Water District call 208-687-6593.

Lake Coeur d'Alene is a natural lake with a restricted outlet. The Post Falls Dam located nine miles downstream of the outlet on the Spokane River does not affect the lake's outlet flow capacity.  During the spring and winter, when inflows exceed the natural outlet flow capacity the lake rises. When inflows are less than the natural outlet flow capacity, the lake level falls. 

Typically, Avista maintains the lake at summer elevation after runoff through the first part of September. Avista attempts to lower the lake 7.5 feet by the end of January each year. Depending upon the weather, Lake Coeur d'Alene is on free flow discharge from January until after runoff. The level reached (both low and high level) depends entirely upon precipitation and temperature.

For more information on water levels in Kootenai County visit the following sites:  

• Avista Corp Website
  
• National Weather Service - Spokane