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Airport

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1. Where can I get information about leasing space at the airport?

Visit our Development page to find documents pertaining to leasing.

2. Where can I find contact information for the airport?

View our Contact Us page for staff information and other contacts.

3. What is the phone number for the Operations Duty Phone?

208-916-8630 

4. Do you offer online tiedown payments?

Yes, please visit our online payment portal to make your payment online.

5. What airlines fly in to the Coeur d'Alene Airport?

The Coeur d'Alene Airport does not have commercial service at this time. The closest airport with commercial service is Spokane International (GEG). http://spokaneairports.net/

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Assessor

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1. What is an occupancy tax?

Only property that exists on January 1st is taxed on the regular role that year. New construction is added to the occupancy role. The amount of the occupancy tax is the value of the structure(s) prorated from the month they are first put into use to the end of that year and multiplied by the levy rate.

Example

A home is built on an existing property. It's completed and use begins in July. The assessment notice that is sent out in June that year will not include the value of that home. Thus, the tax bill that is sent out in December will not include taxes for that home. A separate assessment notice that includes only the value of the home is sent out the beginning of the following year. Then a separate tax bill for just the home is sent out approximately two months later. The following year the value and taxes for that home will be included with all of the other property on that parcel.

• Full Value of the Home: $235,000.00 
• Prorated Value
  July to December (Value divided by 12 months multiplied by 5 months) = $97,916
  Multiply by the Tax Levy Rate - 0.018611084
  Equals the Occupancy Tax For the Barn = $911.16

See Idaho Code 63-317.

2. How are the taxes on my property determined?

The first thing you need to know about property taxes is that they are budget driven. This means that all property values could stay exactly the same and property taxes could still increase because of budget increases.

Property taxes are the principal source of income for cities, counties and special-purpose governments like fire, schools, library, cemetery and other districts. The county Treasurer sends and collects the tax, then distributes it to these local governments. At the assessor's office, our job is to make sure homes and businesses are valued correctly. Under Idaho Code 63-205, our assessed value must be the same as the actual market value of that property as it is on January 1^st.

Determining Levy Rates

• Each tax district determines their budgets at public hearings. See Idaho Code 63-803
• Individual properties are assessed to determine their market value
• Homeowners (and other) exemptions are subtracted from the value
• The total budget dollars requested by each district is divided by the total taxable value in the areas they serve

Taxing District Levy Example

Budget Request divided by property value equals tax rate (levy)

Example: $42,000,000 / 13.billion = $311,313

Properties are generally served by more than one tax district, so the levies of all the tax districts serving your property are added together. The geographical areas in each county having a common group of tax districts is called a Code Area. The levy for this Code Area is shown in the table below.

Type	Levy
County	0.03113130
School	0.05137568
City	0.05811937
Special Districts (highway, cemetery, etc.)	0.01004090
Total	0.014062635

The taxable value of each property is determined:

Type	Taxable Value
House Value:	$100,000
Land Value:	$40,000
Total Value:	$140,000
Minus Homeowners Exemption:	($70,000)
Total Taxable Value	$70,000

Individual Tax bills are calculated: taxable value mulitplied by levy rate equals tax amount. 

Example: $70,000 times 1.4062635% equals $984.39

The collection of unpaid balances owed to certain agencies, may be added to your property tax bill. If you have questions regarding an amount charged by an agency to your property tax bill, please contact that agency. See Idaho Code 50-1008.

3. What is the annual tax cycle?

Tax Cycle Dates

Date	Item
January 1	Tax lien date Values are appraised as of January 1 each year.
April 15	Agricultural classification applications are due.
Mid to late May	Assessment Notices must be mailed by the first Monday in June.
Third Monday in May	Preliminary budgets are due for the next fiscal year (beginning October 1).
June 20	The second half of the prior year's tax payment is due.
Fourth Monday of June	Deadline for the Board of Equalization appeals
End of June	The County Auditor sends value estimates to the taxing districts.
Second Monday of July	The Board of Equalization closes -- the Assessment Roll is forwarded to the County Auditor.
First Week of September	The State Tax Commission sends the Operating Property values to the County Auditor.
Second Monday in September	The County Auditor receives the budget requests.
Third Monday in September	The County Auditor sets the tax levy rates.
Third Week of October	The Subsequent Roll Assessment Notices are mailed.
Fourth Monday in October	The State Tax Commission reviews and approves the tax levy rates.
November 1	The County Auditor computes individual property tax charges and sends them to the Treasurer for billing.
Fourth Monday in November	The County Treasurer mails the tax bills.
December 20	The first half of the property tax payments are due (full payment may be made at this time).
December 31	Timber classification applications and timber management plans are due.

4. How does the Assessor determine the value on my property?

• Buyers and sellers in the real estate market establish value.  The Assessor's staff researches the market and collects information about properties to estimate value.
• The Assessor's Office has no control over tax rates.
• The Assessor uses standard methods, which utilize the three traditional approaches to value (cost, market, and income), to estimate the fair market value of a given property.
• It is important to note that the Assessor is simply measuring the information produced in the market to determine the estimated value.  The economic principles of supply and demand, along with the desires of the purchasers and sellers of property, determine fair value.
  
  

For more information contact the Assessor's Office.

5. Why do property values change?

• A property's value may change for a number of reasons. The most obvious is that the property changes. A bedroom, garage, or bathroom is added, or part of the property is destroyed by vandalism or fire.
• The most frequent cause of a change in value is a change in the market. If a community's major industry leaves, property values can collapse. As older neighborhoods with good quality housing are discovered by young homebuyers, prices gradually rise and then may even soar as the neighborhood becomes fashionable. A shortage of detached homes in a desirable city neighborhood can send prices to extreme levels. In a recession, larger homes may stay on the market for a long time, but more affordable homes are in demand, so their prices rise.
• In a stable neighborhood, with no extraordinary pressure from the market, inflation may increase property value.
  
  

For more information contact the Assessor's Office.

6. How do I contact the taxing districts listed on my assessment notice?

• Refer to the lower third of your Assessment Notice to the section entitled "Budget Hearing Information." The column on the left lists the Taxing Districts in which your property is located. The second column from the right lists the phone numbers for each district. The right-hand column provides the date and time for the budget hearings.
• The Assessor's Office also receives a complete list of the Taxing Districts from the Auditor's Office. We can also provide you the mailing address and name of the contact person for each district.

For more information about taxing districts, contact the Auditor's Office at:
451 Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Phone: 208-446-1000

7. How do I find out the name of a property owner and other details about the property?

• You can search by owner, address, parcel number, or alternate identification number (AIN) on the County website. You may also obtain information at the County Information Center and office of Kootenai County Assessor. In the Assessor's Office you can search by plat name to get the subdivision designation to search lots.
• In addition to ownership name, mailing address, and possible location address, other information available on the website and at the office includes, but is not limited to, legal description, acreage of the parcel, assessed value, homeowner's exemption, timber and agricultural classifications, and property classifications.
  
  

For questions contact the Assessor's Office.

8. Can I see a map of my property? May I purchase a copy?

The Assessor's Office has plat maps covering all properties in Kootenai County. They are available for your viewing at our office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. The maps are filed by township, range, section, and quarter section (northeast quarter, northwest quarter, southwest quarter, or southeast quarter) and provide parcel numbers needed to obtain parcel information.

The maps are also on the website. "Then select the township/range combination, the section, and then quadrant (quarter section). If you do not have this specific information, you can use the large wall maps at our office to narrow your search. 

Purchasing a Copy

The full sized plat maps may be purchased at the Information Center of our building at 451 Government Way in Coeur d'Alene. The maps measure approximately 18 inches by 24 inches and cost $2 each. When requesting a map, please specify the quarter section, section, township, and range of the map. The Assessor's Office can help you identify the map you wish to purchase.

You may also purchase a black and white map of Kootenai County from the Information Center. This map measures approximately 36 inches by 45 inches and costs $5.

Other maps available for purchase from the Information Center are the following:

• Survey maps
• Recorder's plat maps (platted subdivisions)
• The above two types of maps come in two sizes:
  • 11 inches by 14 inches - These cost $1 each.
  • Large size - The sizes vary considerably and cost $4 each.
• You can request that maps be mailed to you. Postage will vary by map size and weight.

For more information about maps contact Kootenai County Information Center at 208-446-1500.

9. What do the categories or group code numbers shown on the assessment notice mean?

Please view a listing of the codes (PDF) and their meanings.

10. How do I change the name of the owner(s) on my property?

• There are a variety of situations in which the ownership of a property or name on the property might change. These include, but are not limited to, sale of property, death of one of the owners, addition of owners, removal of owners, and foreclosure on a property. Circumstances can vary so widely that we cannot describe every situation here.
• The Assessor's Office is not able to provide legal advice to owners or potential owners on how to handle a change of name/ownership. Therefore, we recommend that you contact a title company or an attorney to advise you on the procedure.
• If you think that you have all the documentation needed to effect a name change, please bring it directly to the Assessor's Office. A mapping specialist will review the material to see if it is sufficient for us to process a name change.

For questions contact the Land Records Department in the Assessor's Office.

11. How do I correct the acreage on my property?

• Each situation involving a question of acreage or change in the acres is different and must be examined individually by a mapping specialist.
• Acreage amendments need to be researched and calculated. Additional information supplied by the property owner may help in this regard. Please inform the Mapping Department of any surveys or description changes to your property that would be helpful in determining the proper acreage for any given parcel.
  
  

For more information contact the Land Records Department in the Assessor's Office.

12. How do I correct or change the boundaries of my property, such as a lot line adjustment?

• Each situation involving a change in boundaries is different and must be examined individually by a mapping specialist.
• Changing the boundaries of properties may involve deeds for lot line adjustments between neighbors. A title company or surveyor can assist in the creation of the necessary documents to complete the lot line adjustment. A survey may be needed to comply with the requirements for State mapping standards.
• The Assessor's Office cannot provide legal advice or assist you in the creation or amendment of documents or surveys.

For more information contact the Land Records Department in the Assessor's Office.

13. How do I convert my manufactured home into real property? Can I reverse a manufactured home from real property to personal property?

• Please refer to the instructions on the back of the form, "Statement of Intent to Declare Manufactured Home to Real Property." Obtain a form called a "Statement of Intent to Declare Manufactured Home to Real Property" from the Assessor's Office. A Deputy Assessor signs the form verifying that the land and home are under the same ownership.
• The owner then contacts the building department located within their jurisdiction (Kootenai County for properties in the County outside any city limits; otherwise, Coeur d'Alene City Building Department, Post Falls City Building Department, etc.) for inspection to verify the home is set according to Idaho Code 63 to 304.
• The owner then has his/her signature notarized and returns the completed "Statement of Intent" form, along with the original title to the manufactured home, to the Recorder's Office to record both documents. The Recorder's office will return the original "Statement of Intent" and original title to the owner. Taxes for the manufactured home must be prepaid if there is an existing assessment.
  
  

After recording, the owner takes the original "Statement of Intent" form and original title (no copies) to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV forwards the documents to the Idaho Department of Transportation in Boise, and this office will eliminate the title for the manufactured home.

Reversing a Manufactured Home

• Obtain a form from the Assessor's Office called a "Reversal of Declaration of Manufactured Home to Real Property."
• The owner prepays the current year's property taxes on the home in the Treasurer's Office. If necessary, obtain a permission letter from the lender on the mortgage.
• The owner then has his/her signature notarized and then recorded in the Recorder's Office.
• The owner takes the recorded "Reversal of Declaration" form (the original) to the Department of Motor Vehicles to obtain a receipt of title. The new title is issued by the Idaho Department of Transportation in Boise.

For more information on the above procedures, contact the "Mobile Home" Department in the Assessor's Office.

14. How do I change the location of my manufactured home? How do I change ownership on my manufactured home?

• The owner must first prepay the current year's property taxes on the manufactured home. A mover will not hook onto the home for transport unless the owner provides the receipt from the Treasurer's Office showing that the taxes are prepaid.

Please notify the "Mobile Home" Department in the Assessor's Office of the change of location and/or mailing address for Assessment Notices.

Change Ownership on My Manufactured Home

• The title is the legal ownership. Obtain a form from the Assessor's Office. The current year's property taxes on the home must be prepaid. The new owner takes the Treasurer's prepaid tax receipt to the Department of Motor Vehicles to have the title changed.
• If the manufactured home is your primary residence that you are occupying, apply to the "Mobile Home" Department of the Assessor's Office for the Homeowners Exemption.
  
  

For questions or more information about the above procedures, contact the Mobile Home Department of the Assessor's Office.

15. How many taxing districts are there?

For more information on taxing districts, view our informational brochure (PDF).

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Assessor - Personal Property

Show All Answers

1. What is Personal Property?

Taxable personal property consists of items used commercially, such as

• Art
• Fixtures
• Furniture
• Logging and construction equipment
• Signs
• Unregistered aircraft
• Unregistered watercraft

It also includes items used commercially for convenience, decoration, service, or storage. Please contact the Assessor's Office with specific questions.

2. What Personal Property is assessed?

All personal property in Idaho, unless expressly exempt, is subject to assessment and taxation. Forms for your use in listing of personal property are available from the Assessor's Office.

3. What if someone does not report personal property?

The County Assessor is required to assess property that is not declared. The assessment is estimated based upon the best information available. For more information, contact the Assessor's office.

4. At what value is personal property assessed?

Personal property is assessed at retail market value. This value includes shipping and installation costs. Several methods are used to arrive at the value. Depreciation tables, sales information, cost guides, and other resources are used in this process. For more information, contact the Assessor's office.

5. How are my personal property taxes determined?

The Assessor does not determine tax amounts. The amount of taxes is determined by the budgets of the taxing districts in which the personal property is located. For more information, contact the Assessor's office.

6. What if I close or sell my business?

If you sell or close your business during the year, you should contact the Assessor's office as soon as possible. The Assessor will explain how the assessment will be handled.

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Assessor - Timber Exemption

Show All Answers

1. How do I qualify lands for the timber program, and when?

• The minimum acreage is 5 contiguous acres, fully stocked with trees, excluding any land allocated to improvements. You need to apply whenever land status or ownership changes. Don't take anything for granted, especially when dealing with timberland classifications.
• Fully stocked means the land is stocked with the optimum number of trees that can successfully grow in an area based on size of stem or diameter. The larger the tree diameter, the fewer trees per acre the ground will adequately support. We use the following rule of thumb:
  • Seedlings to saplings (0 to 3 inches in diameter), 400 to 300 trees per acre or a tree every 10 to 12 feet apart
  • Post and poles to small saw logs (4 to 10 inches in diameter), 300 to 200 trees per acre or a tree every 12 to15 feet apart
  • Saw logs (11 or more inches in diameter), 150 to 125 trees per acre or a tree every 16 to 40 plus feet apart. Most lands will have a mixture of all these sizes within 5 years after a substantial harvest, so use an average spacing of 10 to 15 feet between trees.
• Improvements are anything attributed to the land that changes the functional use of the land. Examples are clearing for a home site, public right of way, utilities easement, clearing for other uses (agriculture, recreational etc.), any buildings, etc. (The smaller the acres, the more critical these are in qualifying land.)
• In meeting the aforementioned, you need to submit an application for each individual parcel that is being applied for. Applicants will be required to prepare a detailed, viable and workable, written management plan. It needs to address present and future needs recommended for the timber stand within the ownership. One plan can cover multiple parcels as long as they are contiguous and each parcel is individually identified within the context of the plan. Plans must be updated as harvesting occurs.

For more information, contact us at 208-446-1526.

2. What does contiguous parcels or acres mean?

• Contiguous acres are individual acres that join or touch each other's boundaries and are under the same exact ownership. For instance, 5 one-acre parcels can qualify for timber as long as they are all touching each other, there are no improvements, they are fully stocked and managed for the production of timber as a crop, and the ownership is exactly the same.
• You can have 100 acres of 1 to 4.99-acre lots within the county, but if they do not touch other parcels of the same ownership none will qualify for the timber classification.
• Parcels divided by a road, easement, creek or rights-of-way, etc. are still considered contiguous as long as they are adjacent to one another and the ownership is the same.
• They are not considered contiguous if the only thing connecting them is a public road or easement and they are not adjacent to each other. For instance, you own a 3-acre parcel on Why Not Road and you own another 3-acre parcel a half mile down Why Not Road. Sorry neither will qualify!
• There are parcels with sufficient total acres that still won't qualify for timber. Say you have a 120- acre parcel where 115 of acres are being farmed for hay and 1 acre is designated for the home site, which leaves 4 acres that are loaded with trees. It doesn't matter that there are 120 contiguous acres total; only 4 have timber so they will not qualify for the classification. This owner could plant another acre or two of the farm ground into trees to meet the 5-acre minimum and qualify by submitting a proper application and management plan.
• If in doubt whether your ownership is contiguous, contact the Assessor's office and schedule a time to review your ownership to verify what is and isn't contiguous.

For more information, contact us at 208-446-1526.

3. What is entailed in the application? And how often do we need to apply?

• The application is needed to identify the acres you wish to have assessed as timber-producing land (there is no cost to file).  The application and the management plan must be received by the Assessor's Office by December 31st of the year prior to when you wish to be assessed in the program.  If you purchase a property on December 31st, you need to have your application and plan turned into us that same day or it will not be considered for the timber classification for the upcoming year.  It would be considered for the following year. If you hire a forester to prepare your plan we will give them extensions for submitting the plan as long as they confirm hire.
• Applications identify the landowner(s), addresses, parcel & bill or serial #, legal description of parcel, number of acres being applied for, and which option of timberland classification you wish to have your land assessed.  The classifications are Land Productivity or Bare Land & Yield, which are explained below.
• Applications are also considered proof of an agreement between landowner & county that any land classified for timber has a primary purpose of maintaining and managing the trees on said land as a crop for eventual harvest.  This is further evidenced by the management plan and physical activities administered on the ground.
• As long as there are no physical, ownership, or use changes to the parcel, you are only required to file once for as long as you own and manage the parcel for timber production. Management plans must be updated as harvesting occurs, as that changes the description and prescription on existing plans.
• Every 10 years (based from 1982) land owners have the opportunity to change from one timber option to the other, (productivity to bare land or visa versa).  All timberland under the same ownership within Idaho has to carry the same option, so if one is changed all need to be changed.
• Any changes, (segregation, plat, name changes, land use on all or a portion, acres, swaps,   lot line adjustments-- any change) Requires the new submission of application and plan update or the land (s) will be removed from the classification.
• As long as land owners stay active in the management of their timber crop, with proper silvicultural prescriptions and treatment when need arises, their lands will remain qualified.  A new application will not be needed barring changes mentioned above.  All properties receiving the classification will be inspected for their compliance periodically to assure they are still being maintained for timber production. If they are determined to be inactive, the owner will be notified and the parcel will be removed from timber classification. 

For more information, contact us at 208-446-1526.

4. What is the difference between the Land Productivity and Bare Land and Yield timber options?

• The main difference is value per acre. Land in the Land Productivity (LP) option is assessed at a higher value per acre which also means slightly more property taxes per acre. This is because the value per acre includes the value of the land, the potential tree growth per acre per year, and a 5-year average stumpage value.
• The Bare Land and Yield (BL&Y) option only values the bare land's potential to grow trees based on a 5-year average of stumpage values; it does not consider the yearly tree growth production and value until the trees are actually harvested. At the time of harvest, there is a 3% yield tax billed on the stumpage reported by the mills. This option is subject to a recapture of deferred taxes when the use of the land changes or when the ownership changes and the designation is removed. If the land has a change in use, the recapture tax is the difference in real estate taxes between the BL&Y value and full market value. When the land changes ownership, the recapture tax is calculated as the difference in taxes that was deferred between the two options. The Assessor's office can provide more detailed information that owners need to study before choosing an option.
• The BL&Y option is taxed at $1.50 to $2.50 per acre on an average, and the Productivity option is taxed at $5 to $8 per acre on an average. The difference in taxes for the number of years that the land has been in the program up to 10 years is the deferred taxes collected.

For more information contact us at 208-446-1526.

5. What is needed in a Management Plan and who can prepare it?

• A Management plan is a written document that describes your forest's current condition and its needs assessment for future timber crops.
• The plan provides an organized decision framework that demonstrates active management, provides valuable records (for tax purposes and in case of timber theft or trespass), establishes current and future goals, gives a comprehensive look at all forest management variables, helps to systematically organize any decision making, helps consider the effects of one activity to other interests (such as how a harvest may effect water quality) and establishes effective communication of your interests and concerns to loggers, foresters or others you may work with in managing your timber. With a good plan, you will be less likely to make costly mistakes with your management decisions. My favorite phrase is "Failing to plan is planning to fail."
• Bottom line-look at a plan as being the same thing as a blue print for a house; plan what you want the forest land to look like before you ever take action on the ground. Traditionally, plans are prepared by a forester. State law says it should be reviewed by a qualified individual (consulting forester, staff forester, industrial forester, or agency foresters). Private landowners may prepare their own plan if they have any forestry knowledge and the agency forester can review it for compliance. Fees paid for professionally-prepared plans may be deducted on income taxes. There are also "cost share" programs that can assist in covering some financial aide for Stewardship Plans if landowners are interested. For more information, contact the Idaho Department of Lands or the Forestry Department at the Assessor's office.  
• The minimum requirements needed in a management plan are: 
  • Property owner's name, date of plan preparation, name of plan preparer (if different then owner), legal description and parcel identification number(s) or bill number(s).
  • Legible map (signifying project areas, land characteristics and access).
  • General description of the existing forest stand(s) including species, age and size classes, stocking (dense to sparse), canopy coverage, water ways or riparian areas, topography and aspect(s) and estimated volume per acre or trees per acre.
  • Identification of any health problems (insects, disease, suppression, weather, past management or lack thereof, natural or mechanical damage, etc.). Potential fire hazards, wildlife or aquatic life must also be identified.
  • Condition of property lines (have they been located), is access adequate to stand
  • Any uses other than forestry within the property boundaries.
  • Type of equipment needed to harvest the stand(s).

After this information, lay out your blue print for what you want your property to look like and what type of crop want to be producing in 10 to 20 plus years. Next, plan out the management activities that are going to be initiated to accomplish your goals, both short-term (3 to 5 years) and long-term (10 to 20 plus years). 

• Identify whether it is a pre-commercial or commercial activity (out of pocket or for profit). 
• When it is projected to start and be completed, how and who will accomplish the work, what type of equipment will be used (hand, ground equip, cable, horse, etc.). 
• Will there be any slash created and if so how will it be treated? 
• What time of the year will work be done and why (i.e. if you have a thick stand of immature pine species you want to thin, because of potential insect problems, you will want to thin in late summer or fall and dispose of the slash in early winter or prior to the next spring melt). 
• Identify what will be done for erosion control and stream protection (if one exists). Are new roads needed? 
• What species of trees and product are you managing for (why and how)? 
• What types of commercial harvests are projected in the future. Why, when and how will they be accomplished? How much volume (%) is projected to be removed in the harvest practice and will the harvest cover all or a portion of the ownership? 

Remember one plan can cover multiple contiguous parcels or acres of the same ownership as long as their individual differences (if any) are identified within the plan and on the map. For more information, contact us at 208-446-1526.

6. What if I just want to let my land grow "natural"?

• That is the free choice of each individual landowner, and may be the right one if they either do not wish to cut any trees, hire a forester, have no timber management experience or do not want to spend the time, money and energy it takes to maintain and manage timber as a crop. The honesty of the decision is admirable, but the bottom line is that the parcel will not qualify or be classified as timberland if it is left "natural". It will be assessed at full market value.
• It is the county's responsibility to ensure that the intent of the law is being accomplished by land owners actively managing their land for the primary purpose of raising trees as a crop. The timber classification requires administering proper silvicultural treatments to encourage growth, health, and sustainable yields for the purpose of generating income at some point and time through eventual harvest(s).

For more information, contact us at 208-446-1526.

7. What if I'm not able to do any work and cannot afford to hire assistance to prepare a management plan?

• We do understand and will be willing to try to assist individuals who have severe health and financial challenges if the property has been owned for a while.  For individuals purchasing timber property, it is difficult to understand how you cannot afford to hire the proper help if needed.  If you set your lands up correctly, most everything you do to the land is a write off.  Also, the amount of savings most receive on their property taxes would offset the cost of hiring assistance.
• Timber management (depending on your stand) usually only requires major physical work every 5-10 years.  Once the initial work is completed, your time will be used for monitoring and improving the growth, health and value of the stand and researching and planning for the next harvest or treatment.  Timber management is an excellent family venture.  Make it enjoyable as it is a lifetime project. 

For more information contact us at 208-446-1526.

8. Can I build a house on my timberland without losing the timber classification?

Absolutely, as long as there are still 5 or more treed acres remaining after 1 acre is removed for the home site, and they are or can still be managed as a timber crop. The 1 acre will be valued as an improved home site and the remaining 5 or more acres will continue to be classified as timber.

9. If I do not have much knowledge about timber management, how can I learn about it?

• There are numerous agencies and programs that are available and funded for educating private landowners on timber issues. We recommend you investigate what they have to offer.
• Probably the best source for getting information is the University of Idaho Kootenai County Extension office. They actually present most of the educational programs for nominal fees. In particular, they instruct an excellent course for old and new timberland owners called "Forestry Shortcourse&Quot; which introduces individuals to forest management practices, terminology, species identification, proven silvicultural treatments, logging practices, pre and commercial treatments and assists the landowner with a needs assessment for preparing and justifying a plan of action with goals and objectives to reach future results (management plan). It is six three-hour sessions one night a week over six weeks for $30 plus. Cheap!
• Other organizations to check out will be the Idaho Forest Owners Association. They are a non-profit group that is a voice for the private timberland owners in Legislature. They also sponsor timberland management educational programs. The Tree Farm Association is a non-profit group that supplies support and reviews management needs on private forests. They will identify what work is needed and the timeframe to complete both commercial and non commercial activities to certify the property into the program. The Tree Farm Association requires a minimum ownership of 10 acres. Both of these have minor annual fees.
• There are also cost share programs to assist landowners in their management endeavors. Some have been previously mentioned. The best place to find information on these is the Idaho State Department of Lands. These are government funded programs that help private owners with defraying some of the cost involved in timber management, mainly non-commercial activities.

For more information, contact us at 208-446-1526.

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Assessor - Timber/Ag

Show All Answers

1. Can I Have Multiple AG/Timber Categories on One Parcel?

Yes. For example, if you have a 10-acre parcel that has an area of forestland and an area that you farm, you can put 5ac into the timber exemption and 5 acres into the agricultural exemption.

You cannot, however, have both exemptions on the same piece of ground. For example, if you have 10 treed acres, and you graze cattle throughout the trees, you will have to choose either the grazing or the timber exemption. Keep in mind that in an instance such as this, if you choose to go into the grazing exemption and at some point decide to harvest some of your trees, you will have to pay a 3% yield tax on whatever you make from the mill.

2. Do Bees Qualify for the Grazing Exemption?

No. The amount of acreage that qualifies for grazing is based on how much of your parcel is fenced and is being actively grazed. There is no way to know where and how many bees are “grazing” and if they are truly using your parcel or your neighbors.

3. Do I Have to Re-Apply Each Year?

No, you do not have to re-apply annually. The land remains in the program for as long as a landowner actively manages it as agricultural land, whether or not it produces crops or is in rotation. When land is removed from this program, it is then assessed at full market value. The landowner is not required to pay back taxes on the difference in value between full market value and the lower taxable values placed on the land while it was in the program. If your parcel is less than 5 acres you are required to provide proof of income annually by April 15^th.

4. Do Wildlife Preserves or Conservation Agreements/Easements Qualify for an Exemption?

If you have a private, 501(c)(3)non-profit corporation whose land is used for wildlife habitat, or a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation whose land is under an active conservation easement/agreement, this land may qualify for an exemption similar to that of our agricultural exemption. Look over Idaho Code 63.604 and our “ADDITIONAL INFORMATION” tab for more details and the forms necessary to apply.

5. How Can I Measure How Many Acres I Have of Cropland/Pasture?

Our KCEarth Web Map tool allows you to see your property from an aerial view, overlaid with your property boundaries and other layers of your choice. If you are unsure how many acres your hay field is for example, you have the ability to draw a polygon around this area and it will provide you with that acreage.

6. How Do I Know I Am Receiving the Agricultural Exemption?

Assessment notices are sent out every year at the beginning of June. If you are in fact receiving the exemption, your notice will read one of the following depending on your agricultural enterprise:

                01 Irr ag – irrigated cropland

                03 Non-irr ag – non-irrigated cropland

                04 Irr grazing/meadow – irrigated pasture

                05 Dry grazing – non-irrigated pasture

7. How Do I Know Which Agricultural Form To Fill Out?

If the total acreage of your parcel is over five acres (5.01 ac. and over) you will fill out the OVER FIVE ACRES AGRICULTURAL APPLICATION. If your parcel is five acres or less (5.00 ac. and under), fill out the FIVE ACRES OR LESS AGRICULTURAL APPLICATION. Both applications can be found by clicking here.

8. How Is Grazing Acreage Qualified?

The amount of acreage that qualifies for the grazing exemption is based on how much pasture is completely fenced and ready for livestock, and is currently being used or is in an active grazing rotation at the time of inspection. If you are unsure, use the measuring tool on KCWebMap. 

9. How Will My Land Be Assessed Once I Am Accepted Into The Program?

When property is accepted into the agricultural program, it is classified as dry cropland, irrigated cropland, dry grazing, or irrigated grazing. There are a number of different assessment rates that apply to the land according to its ability to produce crops or grazing grasses. The value is calculated by multiplying the acres in the program by one of these rates, which are lower than the per acre rates for full market value, to obtain the taxable value. These rates are based on the income approach (potential income from the land), are provided by the State Tax Commission, and change each year. This program does not provide a true exemption but a reclassification according to the land's agricultural use. For more information on your savings, call the Timber and Agricultural Department 208.446.1526 or email us.

10. What Are The CRP And FSA Programs?

Questions regarding these two programs can be answered by visiting the following links: 

Conservation Reserve Program 

Farm Service Agency

Landowners who participate in one of these programs are eligible for our agricultural exemption provided they include an up-to-date contract with their application.

11. What Documents Suffice As Proof Of Income If My Parcel Is 5 Acres Or Less?

You are required to show one of the following: copies of income tax returns with Form F-4 attached copies of cancelled checks. If you are unsure, the Timber and Agricultural Department 208.446.1526 or email us.  

12. What Does Contiguous Mean?

Contiguous means being in actual contact or touching along a boundary or at a point, except no area of land shall be considered not contiguous solely by reason of a roadway or other right-of-way.

13. Where Can I Find My AIN# Or Parcel#?

You can find this information by searching your name or address in our Parcel Information Search webpage. Here you can find your deed, plat maps, AIN # and Parcel #.

14. Why Is My Phone Number Required On The Application?

In order to qualify for the exemption you must agree to have your parcel inspected by the agricultural appraiser to ensure compliance. Your phone number or email is required at initial application to allow the appraiser to give you notice prior to coming out and inspecting. This information is not public and will only be used for inspection purposes, information on accessing your parcel or if there are any problems or questions regarding your exemption.  

15. Will I Have To Pay a Yield Tax At Any Point On Agricultural Ground?

If the grazing ground is timbered or there are small areas of timbered ground included in the acres classified as cropland, the landowner will be required to pay a 3% yield tax on timber harvested and delivered to a mill. The agricultural rates per acre do not account for potential income from the trees. The total taxable value depends upon the species of trees and the quantity harvested (by the thousand board feet). Yield tax bills are processed bi-annually.

The first-half billing covers the period of January 1^st – June 30^th. Bills are mailed in October and are due December 20^th. 

The second-half billing covers the period of July 1^st – December 31^st. Bills are mailed in March and are due June 20^th.

16. For Questions Or More Information

Call the Timber and Agricultural Department 208.446.1526 or email us at kctimberag@kcgov.us.

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Board of County Commissioners

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1. What is the function of the Board of County Commissioners?

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) serves as the governing body for County government, with final budget authority for all County departments. Additionally, they oversee the daily operations of departments that are not directly under the authority of the other six elected officials in the County. The BOCC meet in a public meeting forum each Tuesday to take official action on County business, and conduct Planning & Zoning Deliberation meetings each Thursday morning.

The Board also sits as the Board of Equalization to consider property assessment appeals and as the Board of Canvassers for the purpose of canvassing the election returns of all precincts within the county.

2. What is the function of the Board of Equalization?

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) sits as the Board of Equalization (BOE) at times designated by Idaho Code 63-501 to consider tax exemption applications and property assessment appeals. Application forms for tax exemptions can be on our exemption page; Property Tax Exemption forms may be downloaded here. 

3. When does the Board of County Commissioners meet?

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) holds over 300 meetings each year on a wide variety of topics.  Most meetings are held between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Official actions related to contract approvals, bid openings, resolutions or ordinances, expense approvals, advisory board appointments, and other items requiring signature approval are considered at the Business Meeting each Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. Planning & Zoning deliberations are held each Thursday at 9:00 a.m. 

Other public meetings on a variety of subjects are held several times each week, as needed to conduct the business of the county.  View the agendas and minutes for more information or visit our calendar page.

4. What is the difference between an 'Open' meeting and a 'Closed' meeting?

The majority of BOCC meetings are open meetings, meaning that the public is allowed - and encouraged - to attend the meeting and hear the deliberations and decisions of the Board.  However, certain meetings (or portions of meetings) are closed to the public. These include discussions such as personnel considerations, land acquisition negotiations, and meetings with legal counsel. Closed sessions are conducted without the public present for the discussion; any decisions resulting from a closed session will be held during an open session.

5. How can I meet with the Board of County Commissioners?

Meetings can be requested by phone at 208-446-1600, or by using a Meeting Request Form. Due to public records law, it is necessary to provide the requested information concerning meetings before a meeting can be scheduled.

6. Which Commissioner represents which District?

Idaho Code 31-702 requires that a person reside within the county for one year prior to election, and in the district for which they are seeking office for 90 days prior to election. The commissioners serve as a board, requiring a quorum of two members for decisions. Find more information on the Board of County Commissioners page.

7. What are the advisory boards used by the County?

Visit our Advisory Boards page for more information.  Questions about membership requirements may be  emailed to the Board of County Commissioners.

8. How many dogs can I have before I need a kennel license, and how do I go about getting one?

Kootenai County Ordinance Number 174-A, Section 3.(s), requires a kennel license in circumstances where a person maintains five (5) or more dogs, six months of age or older. Download a kennel license application (PDF) or by call us at 208-446-1600.

9. How do I apply for Tax Exemption on properties?

Tax exemption applications must be received at the Commissioners' Office no later than 5 p.m. on the 4th Monday in June of each year. Applications are available on our Forms page, or by calling 208-446-1600.

10. How do I appeal my property assessed value?

Idaho Code allows for appeal of the current year property value to the Board of Equalization until the 4th Monday of June each year.  Appeals must be filed on the form provided by the County Commissioners, which may be requested  via email, or by calling 208-46-1600. Find more information on our Property Assessment Appeals page.

11. What is a Hardship Exemption?

County Commissioners have authority to waive delinquent taxes and/or penalty and interest in circumstances where a temporary hardship is found to exist. Applications may be obtained through the Commissioners' Office at 208-446-1600.

12. Where can I get a list of properties that did not sell at the Tax Deed sale?

The County Treasurer maintains a listing of properties that have been taken to tax deed, and did not sell at public auction. Once these properties have been through the auction process, the County may accept sealed bids from individuals interested in purchasing the property. The most recent list of properties that have been taken to tax deed may be viewed on the Treasurer's Property Tax Sale page.

13. Where can I get a County employment application?

Information about current openings at the County and job application forms may be obtained from Human Resources. They are also available at the Information Center, located on the main floor of the:
County Administration Building
451 Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

14. Where is the Unemployment Office (Job Service)?

The State Department of Labor is located at 600 N. Thornton Street in Post Falls. You can reach their office by phone at (208) 457-8789 or email kcmail@labor.idaho.gov.

(The Department of Labor is a state office and is not associated with Kootenai County.)

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Building

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1. Is my parcel buildable?

Several components are considered when determining whether or not a parcel is eligible to receive a building permit. There are some questions you may want to consider:

• Do I have an approved approach from a public road, and, if not, do I have a deeded ingress/egress easement to allow me to use the private road?
• Do I have septic approval?
• Was my lot legally created?
• Does my lot meet the minimum lot size for my zoning classification?
• Because of the complexity of this issue, you should discuss your particular situation with a planner.

For more information, contact Community Development at 208-446-1070.

2. What is my zoning?

The areas within the County have different zoning classifications. If you are able to provide the Building and Planning Department with either a parcel number or serial number, we will research your zoning classification. For more questions, contact Community Development at 208-446-1070.

3. Am I located in a Flood Zone?

Similar to determining zoning, the Building and Planning Department has several Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), these map out several sections of the County which may or may not be located within a flood prone area. If you provide a planner with a parcel number, a flood zone determination will be given to you. Contact Community Development at 208-446-1070 for more information.

4. Do I have septic approval for my site?

The Building and Planning Department does not have that information. This information can be obtained from the Panhandle Health District.

5. What are my property dimensions and/or where are my property corners located?

In rare instances, the Building and Planning Department will have that information. Another source for this information is the Assessor's office or your deed. If your property has been surveyed, you should be able to locate the corner monuments with a metal detector. If the property has not been surveyed, it may be necessary to hire a surveyor to accurately locate the property lines.

6. Am I located within the City or am I in an unincorporated area of the County?

If your parcel number begins with a letter, you are a city resident and you would call the city for planning and zoning issues. Bayview is the exception and the County has jurisdiction. All other parcel numbers are in an unincorporated area of the County. For more information, contact us at 208-446-1070.

7. May I have two residences on my property?

Some zones within the County allow duplexes. Another option may be the approval of an accessory living unit, provided your lot meets the requirements set out in the Zoning Ordinance. If your property is located over the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, a minimum of ten acres is required. Please consult the Planning Department regarding your specific situation.

8. Are there any restrictions on placing mobile homes in the County?

Manufactured homes constructed prior to June 15, 1976, must obtain rehabilitation Certificate of Conformance prior to application of a building permit. As well, in the Restricted Residential and Agricultural Suburban zones, manufactured homes must meet specific Class A criteria outlined in the Rules and Definitions portion of the Zoning Ordinance. Contact Community Development at 208-446-1070 for further questions.

9. Can I subdivide my land?

In order to subdivide land, usually you must go through a platting process. Exemptions to the platting process are very limited. Currently two options exist for the subdivision of land: (a) minor subdivision or (b) major subdivision. A planner can help you determine which option is best for your situation. The only zone that prohibits land division is the Agricultural zone. Contact Community Development at 208-446-1070 for more information.

10. I think my neighbor is not in compliance to zoning regulations. What can I do?

A Code Enforcement officer is on staff and shares duties between the Planning and Building departments. If you have concerns about a potential zoning violation, contact the Planning Department to begin an investigation.

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Candidate Information

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1. What do I need to do to run for office?

County Candidate

This includes Magistrate Judges.

1. File a C-1 (Political Treasurer Appointment) form through the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal on or before officially announcing your intentions to run, or designate yourself as treasurer on your Declaration of Candidacy form.
2. File a Petition of Candidacy or pay a filing fee with the County Elections Department during candidate filing.
3. File a Declaration of Candidacy with the County Elections Department during candidate filing.
4. Optional but extremely helpful - Fill out the Contact Information sheet in your candidate packet provided by the County Elections Department.
5. File all necessary Campaign Disclosure Reports on time using the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal.

City Candidate

1. File a C-1 (Political Treasurer Appointment) form through the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal on or before officially announcing your intentions to run, or designate yourself as treasurer on your Declaration of Candidacy form. 

2. File a Petition of Candidacy or pay a filing fee with the City Clerk during candidate filing.

3. File a Declaration of Candidacy with the City Clerk during candidate filing.

4. File all necessary Campaign Disclosure forms on time using the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal.

School Trustee Zone Candidate

1. File a C-1 (Political Treasurer Appointment) form through the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal on or before officially announcing your intentions to run, or designate yourself as treasurer on your Declaration of Candidacy form.  Online reporting is not required until the candidate receives or expends $500.
2. Have the County Elections Office certify your Petition of Candidacy.
3. File the Petition of Candidacy and Declaration of Candidacy with the clerk of the school district that you are running in.
4. File all necessary Campaign Disclosure forms on time using the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal.

North Idaho College Trustee

1. File a C-1 (Political Treasurer Appointment) form through the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal on or before officially announcing your intentions to run, or designate yourself as treasurer on your Declaration of Candidacy form.  Online reporting is not required until the candidate receives or expends $500.
2. Have the County Elections Office certify your Petition of Candidacy.
3. File the Petition of Candidacy and Declaration of Candidacy with the clerk of North Idaho College.
4. File all necessary Campaign Disclosure forms on time using the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal.

Taxing District Candidate

1. File a C-1 (Political Treasurer Appointment) form through the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal on or before officially announcing your intentions to run, or designate yourself as treasurer on your Declaration of Candidacy form.  Online reporting is not required until the candidate receives or expends $500.
2. Have the County Elections Office certify your Petition of Candidacy.
3. File the Petition of Candidacy and Declaration of Candidacy with the clerk of the taxing district that you are running in.
4. File all necessary Campaign Disclosure forms on time using the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal.

*Petition of Candidacy and Declaration of Candidacy forms are available through the taxing district you are filing with or the Elections Office. 

2. Where do I file my Declaration of Candidacy?

Candidates running for Statewide, Legislative, and other State-level Offices file with the Secretary of State's Office in Boise. Candidates running for County Office file at the Elections Department at 1808 North 3rd St, Coeur d'Alene. Candidates running for office in a specific taxing district must file with the specific district, however petitions of candidacy must first be certified by the elections department.

3. Do I need to fill out Candidate Financial Disclosure forms?

Under new Campaign Finance guidelines, all candidates must either appoint themselves as treasurer for their campaign, or they may appoint someone else using a C-1 form. Upon receiving or expending $500, candidates are required to create a Campaign Finance account through the Secretary of State's Campaign Finance Portal and to file monthly Campaign Finance Disclosure reports during the year in which the Election for the office they are seeking is taking place. 

Current candidates and officeholders  with open reporting are required to file annual reports in non-election years.

For more information, contact the Elections Department at 208-446-1030.

4. Do I need to file in person?

You may email or fax completed Declarations of Candidacy for our review, but filing the notarized Petitions of Candidacy must be done in person. If you are unable to bring your Petition in person please notify us of the situation and who will be bringing in your Petition. The Elections Department seeks to obtain your contact information at the same time; that information is not included on the Declaration form. Contact the Elections Department at 208-446-1030 for more information.

5. Why is my contact information needed?

For County Candidates, we need a mailing address so that we may send you your certificate of Election once elected.  For all other candidates, we need your information to keep you posted on any important election related information.  Also, if you want constituents to be able to contact you, the information is displayed on our website. Contact us at 208-446-1030 for more information.

6. Is my information displayed on your website?

Yes, your name, address, phone, email or website, Treasurer's name (where applicable) and their contact information.

7. What forms are available to me at the Elections Department?

All candidate filing forms and candidate disclosure forms are available at the Elections Department or on our website.  A limited amount of registration cards and absentee ballot request forms can also be requested from the Elections Department.  We also highly encourage candidates to utilize the State of Idaho's online registration and absentee request portal available at the State of Idaho elections website.

8. Can I get a list of registered voters?

Yes, you need to request the information using the Voter Information Request Form (PDF). Contact the Elections Department at 208-446-1030 for more information.

9. How do I find out who has been sent an Absentee Ballot?

Fill out and submit the Voter Information Request Form (PDF) requesting the list of voters who are receiving absentee ballots for the current election. This list is sent by email on a regular basis throughout the time when ballots are being mailed.

10. When can I see a demonstration of the ballot counting machine?

The Elections Department staff conducts a Logic and Accuracy test the day before the Election to ensure that the ballot counting machines are programmed and running properly. This test is open to the public.

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County Assistance

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1. Where is Kootenai County Assistance located?

This office is located at 451 Government Way, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on the second floor, also known as the "main floor," of the Administration Building, next to the old County courthouse.

2. How can this office be contacted?

Phone: 208-446-1880
Fax: 208-446-2177

3. What are the hours and days of service?

Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except recognized holidays.

4. Who is the administrator of this office?

Shelly Amos, Manager, is the administrator of County Assistance.

5. Is this department governed by any regulations?

Yes, Idaho Code Chapters 34 and 35. Contact us at 208-446-1886 for more information.

6. What is the function of Kootenai County Assistance?

This is an emergency assistance office for Kootenai County residents only to apply for the following types of assistance: Medical, dental extractions, rent, utilities, heat sources, and burial or cremation. For more information, contact County Assistance at 208-446-1886.

7. How would a prospective applicant apply?

Go to the office to get additional, more detailed information and to pick up the paperwork and schedule an appointment if appropriate. The application process to determine eligibility requires completing an application, submitting various documents, and attending a scheduled interview.

8. What happens if I come in for my interview without all the required information and documentation?

Your appointment will be rescheduled.

9. How long do I have to be a resident of Kootenai County prior to seeking assistance?

Thirty (30) consecutive days (proof required). For more information, contact us at 208-446-1886.

10. Will there be a lien placed on my real and personal property?

Pursuant to Idaho Code 31-3504(4), upon receipt of an application for medical, dental, or prescription assistance, an automatic lien is placed on all present and future real and personal property of the applicant. For more questions, contact us at 208-446-1886.

11. Are there application time limits?

Yes. An application for non-emergency medical services shall be filed ten (10) days prior to receiving services from the provider. An application for emergency necessary medical services shall be made any time within thirty-one (31) days beginning with the first day of the provision of necessary medical services from the provider. Call us at 208-446-1886 for more information.

12. If approved, will I be required to repay the assistance?

Yes. Monthly payments only. Call us at 208-446-1886 for more information.

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Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court

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1. What if I have a serious medical condition?

In general, if you have a serious medical condition you will not be excluded from Driving Under the Influence Court. You must be willing to fully disclose your condition and medical care to the treatment providers and Drug Court team. If you are taking a prescribed medication for your condition, you must continue to do so. Although we can be flexible and work around your condition, you must be able to engage in and complete treatment. For further information, contact us at 208-446-1218.

2. Can I use prescription medication?

As a general rule, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court participants are expected to be drug free, including the unauthorized use of prescription medication.

If your doctor prescribes medication, you must bring in the prescription to your probation officer as well as the drug testing facility. You will then sign a release so that your probation officer can verify the prescription. While in Driving Under the Influence Court, you must use one doctor or one dentist and one pharmacy. We also require that you notify the medical professional of your addiction and that you request non-narcotic pain medications when a prescription is being recommended. For further questions, contact DUI Court at 208-446-1218.

3. What happens once I am in the program?

You will be required to participate fully in the program to graduate from Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court. This will include:

• Completing GED if ordered
• Court appearances
• Individual and group therapy
• Making payments
• On-going contact with your probation officer
• Random drug testing
• Verifying self-help meetings

Contact the Drug Court at 208-446-1218 for more information.

4. What if I want to travel outside of Kootenai County?

If you need to travel outside Kootenai County, you must first contact your probation officer to request permission to leave. As a condition of travel, the probation officer my require you to submit to a drug test prior to leaving and immediately upon return. Another condition may be that a treatment group not be missed. If a treatment group would be missed, further permission from your treatment provider would be required. Call Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court at 208-446-1218 for any follow-up questions.

5. What sanctions are given?

If you do not comply with the treatment tasks, probation conditions, or do not attend mandatory meetings, the Judge will sanction your actions. Possible sanctions include but are not limited to:

• Community service hours
• Electronic monitoring
• Increased AA / NA meetings
• Increased drug testing
• Jail time
• Return to prior phase
• Sheriff's labor program
• Writing assignments

Any further questions about sanctions should be directed to the Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court office at 208-446-1217.

6. How do drug screens work?

You will be required to provide ongoing random urine samples to monitor your progress. A same-sex employee at the testing facility will supervise you when you give a specimen. Urinalysis reports are documented and available to the court. Any positive urine screens, tampered samples or refusal to provide a sample may be grounds for sanctions from the judge.

Poppy seeds are a concentrated form of opium and should not be eaten, Some "power drinks" contain pseudoephedrine and are not to be taken. Your recovery is important. Staying away from these items will not only give you clean tests, it will keep substances out of your system which may trigger old addictions.

You must be very careful not to ingest:

• Alcohol
• All over-the-counter medications (such as Nyquil and including nasal sprays) without prior approval from your probation officer
• Controlled substances
• Excessive Water
• Flushing Agents
• Metabolife or other over the counter diet aids
• "Natural" or herbal remedies
• "Power" drinks (Red Bull and others)
• Poppy seeds in any form (muffins, breads, bagels, etc.)

Contact us at 208-446-1218 for any other questions regarding drug screening.

7. What if I relapse?

You may relapse during this program, but that just means you have more work to do. It does not necessarily mean, however, that you will be terminated from the program. The Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court team understands that addiction is a devastating disease which consumes you. All we ask is that you are honest and tell us if it happens. That way the team can make sure the program is fitting your needs, or if you need something different or something more. 

Contact the Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court Coordinator at 208-446-1218 for any concerns you may have.

8. What are grounds for termination from DUI Court?

You will be terminated from Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court if you do not comply with the treatment. Although a relapse is not absolute grounds for termination, a continual inability to meet your treatment goals will result in expulsion. There are several grounds for possible termination. These include:

• Possession of alcohol, drugs, or paraphernalia at your residence, in your car or on your person
• Attending a treatment group under the influence
• New charges, especially violent or sexual crimes
• Corrupting or negatively influencing another Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court Participant
• Tampering with a urinalysis sample, using the urine of someone else for your own, or allowing someone else to use your urine for their sample
• Any instance necessitating the issuance of a bench warrant

You can reach out to Rita Wickham at 208-446-1218 for more information.

9. What happens if I'm terminated from DUI Court?

If you are terminated from Drug Court you will not get a trial. When you opted in to Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court you waived your right to a trial and plead guilty to the felony offense. The matter will be referred to the assigned District Judge for sentencing. The Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Courtwill allow you to have an OSC, admit/deny hearing, mitigation hearing and/or be heard before dismissal from the program if you so request.

10. What are my conditions of probation in Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Court?

Some of the standard conditions of probation in Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Courtare as follows:

• Should I be terminated from the treatment program, I will be sentenced by the Court based upon my admission to the probation violation(s) (or if a new charge, based upon my guilty plea).
• Shall participate in and complete the Drug Court Personal Recovery Program as designed by my treatment provider to the satisfaction of the Court.
• Shall not knowingly associate with persons using or possessing controlled substances and shall not associate with any person(s) the Court or probation officer specifically restricts me from associating with, this may include family members.
• Shall not work with any police agency on drug cases or cases where I may come into contact with controlled substances. I may voluntarily provide historical information to a police agency regarding my involvement with controlled substances.
• Pay a non-refundable participation fee in an amount to be determined based on ability to pay, not to exceed $300 per month. Should i be terminated from the program for any reason, the participation fee and any unpaid treatment costs will still be due and owing.
• Any failure of the treatment program (including but not limited to positive urinalysis tests, missing treatment, violation of release conditions, commission of a new crime) may result in modification of the treatment program, release conditions, revocations of my release, and/or termination from the program.
• Seek and maintain employment or obtain employment counseling, complete high school or obtain a G.E.D. as directed by the Court. Must be employed full time or alternative as ordered by your probation officer.
• Appear in court for any scheduled hearings regardless of my compliance with the treatment program.
• Length of time of participation in the program is ordinarily 18 months, but the Court may extend the program to allow me additional time to successfully complete my program requirements.
• Report any change of address and/or phone number to the Court and my treatment provider within 48 hours. I must get permission from my probation officer prior to moving.
• Submit to random urinalysis testing at my own expense. Any unpaid tests at termination will still be due and owing.
• Maintain regular contact with my attorney
• Appear for all court dates.
• Remain in Kootenai County, except for employment, court, or family visitation purposes with permission of your Probation Officer. Permission must be obtained five days prior to leaving.
• Commit no law violations.
• Shall not possess or use a police band scanner.
• Report all law enforcement contacts immediately to probation officer (Any contact even if not arrested or cited).
• Not use or possess any non-prescribed substance(s) or alcohol. All prescriptions must be shown to probation officer, treatment personnel and drug testing personnel immediately upon receipt.
• If you have a current prescription, you must take any prescribed medications in the prescribed dosages at the prescribed times.
• Not use or possess any substances intended to alter the results of a test of my blood, breath, or urine. All positive, adulterated or diluted urinalysis are considered to be positive.
• Shall report to/be available for contact with probation officer, counselor, and treatment provider.
• Shall not use, possess, or sell any illegal controlled substances or drug paraphernalia.
• Shall obey all geographic restrictions set forth by the Drug Court Judge or probation officer.
• Shall be prohibited from possessing a weapon or look-alike weapon or ammunition.
• Consent to interviews in residence upon request of counselor, treatment provider or probation officer.
• Shall not take any health supplements or herbal pills, powders, or "remedies." Only allowed one brand name over-the-counter daily multi-vitamin unless doctor prescribed. Also shall not consume any poppy seed products.
• Cannot go to any local casino.
• May not enter any establishments wherein the primary source of income is the dispensing of alcoholic beverages (no bars, liquor stores, alcohol cruises, or taverns).
• Must abide by 10 p.m. curfew unless receiving prior permission or curfew change by probation officer.
• Must live in Kootenai County.
• Upon entry into the program, you will review each one of these conditions with your probation officer and initial each one.

Contact the Drug Court Coordinator for more information.

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Drug Court

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1. What if I have a serious medical condition?

In general, if you have a serious medical condition you will not be excluded from Drug Court. You must be willing to fully disclose your condition and medical care to the treatment providers and Drug Court team. If you are taking a prescribed medication for your condition, you must continue to do so. Although we can be flexible and work around your condition, you must be able to engage in and complete treatment. For further information, contact us at 208-446-1217.

2. Can I use prescription medication?

As a general rule, Drug Court participants are expected to be drug free, including the unauthorized use of prescription medication.

If your doctor prescribes medication, you must bring in the prescription to your probation officer as well as the drug testing facility. You will then sign a release so that your probation officer can verify the prescription. While in Drug Court, you must use one doctor or one dentist and one pharmacy. We also require that you notify the medical professional of your addiction and that you request non-narcotic pain medications when a prescription is being recommended. For further questions, contact Drug Court at 208-446-1217.

3. What happens once I am in the program?

You will be required to participate fully in the program to graduate from Drug Court. This will include:

• Completing GED if ordered
• Court appearances
• Individual and group therapy
• Making payments
• On-going contact with your probation officer
• Random drug testing
• Verifying self-help meetings

Contact the Drug Court at 208-446-1217  for more information.

4. What if I want to travel outside of Kootenai County?

If you need to travel outside Kootenai County, you must first contact your probation officer to request permission to leave. As a condition of travel, the probation officer my require you to submit to a drug test prior to leaving and immediately upon return. Another condition may be that a treatment group not be missed. If a treatment group would be missed, further permission from your treatment provider would be required. Call Drug Court at 208-446-1217 for any follow-up questions.

5. What sanctions are given?

If you do not comply with the treatment tasks, probation conditions, or do not attend mandatory meetings, the Judge will sanction your actions. Possible sanctions include but are not limited to:

• Community service hours
• Electronic monitoring
• Increased AA / NA meetings
• Increased drug testing
• Jail time
• Return to prior phase
• Sheriff's labor program
• Writing assignments

Any further questions about sanctions should be directed to the Drug Court office at 208-446-1217.

6. How do drug screens work?

You will be required to provide ongoing random urine samples to monitor your progress. A same-sex employee at the testing facility will supervise you when you give a specimen. Urinalysis reports are documented and available to the court. Any positive urine screens, tampered samples or refusal to provide a sample may be grounds for sanctions from the judge.

Poppy seeds are a concentrated form of opium and should not be eaten, Some "power drinks" contain pseudoephedrine and are not to be taken. Your recovery is important. Staying away from these items will not only give you clean tests, it will keep substances out of your system which may trigger old addictions.

You must be very careful not to ingest:

• Alcohol
• All over-the-counter medications (such as Nyquil and including nasal sprays) without prior approval from your probation officer
• Controlled substances
• Excessive Water
• Flushing Agents
• Metabolife or other over the counter diet aids
• "Natural" or herbal remedies
• "Power" drinks (Red Bull and others)
• Poppy seeds in any form (muffins, breads, bagels, etc.)

Contact us at 208-446-1217 for any other questions regarding drug screening.

7. What if I relapse?

You may relapse during this program, but that just means you have more work to do. It does not necessarily mean, however, that you will be terminated from the program. The Drug Court team understands that addiction is a devastating disease which consumes you. All we ask is that you are honest and tell us if it happens. That way the team can make sure the program is fitting your needs, or if you need something different or something more. 

Contact the Drug Court Coordinator for any concerns you may have.

8. What are grounds for termination from Drug Court?

You will be terminated from Drug Court if you do not comply with the treatment. Although a relapse is not absolute grounds for termination, a continual inability to meet your treatment goals will result in expulsion. There are several grounds for possible termination. These include:

• Possession of alcohol, drugs, or paraphernalia at your residence, in your car or on your person
• Attending a treatment group under the influence
• New charges, especially violent or sexual crimes
• Corrupting or negatively influencing another Drug Court Participant
• Tampering with a urinalysis sample, using the urine of someone else for your own, or allowing someone else to use your urine for their sample
• Any instance necessitating the issuance of a bench warrant

You can reach out to Tanya Reynolds, Drug Court Coordinator for any further questions.

9. What happens if I'm terminated from Drug Court?

If you are terminated from Drug Court you will not get a trial. When you opted in to Drug Court you waived your right to a trial and plead guilty to the felony offense. The matter will be referred to the assigned District Judge for sentencing. The Drug Court will allow you to have an OSC, admit/deny hearing, mitigation hearing and/or be heard before dismissal from the program if you so request.

10. What are my conditions of probation in Drug Court?

Some of the standard conditions of probation in Drug Court are as follows:

• Should I be terminated from the treatment program, I will be sentenced by the Court based upon my admission to the probation violation(s) (or if a new charge, based upon my guilty plea).
• Shall participate in and complete the Drug Court Personal Recovery Program as designed by my treatment provider to the satisfaction of the Court.
• Shall not knowingly associate with persons using or possessing controlled substances and shall not associate with any person(s) the Court or probation officer specifically restricts me from associating with, this may include family members.
• Shall not work with any police agency on drug cases or cases where I may come into contact with controlled substances. I may voluntarily provide historical information to a police agency regarding my involvement with controlled substances.
• Pay a non-refundable participation fee in an amount to be determined based on ability to pay, not to exceed $300 per month. Should i be terminated from the program for any reason, the participation fee and any unpaid treatment costs will still be due and owing.
• Any failure of the treatment program (including but not limited to positive urinalysis tests, missing treatment, violation of release conditions, commission of a new crime) may result in modification of the treatment program, release conditions, revocations of my release, and/or termination from the program.
• Seek and maintain employment or obtain employment counseling, complete high school or obtain a G.E.D. as directed by the Court. Must be employed full time or alternative as ordered by your probation officer.
• Appear in court for any scheduled hearings regardless of my compliance with the treatment program.
• Length of time of participation in the program is ordinarily 18 months, but the Court may extend the program to allow me additional time to successfully complete my program requirements.
• Report any change of address and/or phone number to the Court and my treatment provider within 48 hours. I must get permission from my probation officer prior to moving.
• Submit to random urinalysis testing at my own expense. Any unpaid tests at termination will still be due and owing.
• Maintain regular contact with my attorney
• Appear for all court dates.
• Remain in Kootenai County, except for employment, court, or family visitation purposes with permission of your Probation Officer. Permission must be obtained five days prior to leaving.
• Commit no law violations.
• Shall not possess or use a police band scanner.
• Report all law enforcement contacts immediately to probation officer (Any contact even if not arrested or cited).
• Not use or possess any non-prescribed substance(s) or alcohol. All prescriptions must be shown to probation officer, treatment personnel and drug testing personnel immediately upon receipt.
• If you have a current prescription, you must take any prescribed medications in the prescribed dosages at the prescribed times.
• Not use or possess any substances intended to alter the results of a test of my blood, breath, or urine. All positive, adulterated or diluted urinalysis are considered to be positive.
• Shall report to/be available for contact with probation officer, counselor, and treatment provider.
• Shall not use, possess, or sell any illegal controlled substances or drug paraphernalia.
• Shall obey all geographic restrictions set forth by the Drug Court Judge or probation officer.
• Shall be prohibited from possessing a weapon or look-alike weapon or ammunition.
• Consent to interviews in residence upon request of counselor, treatment provider or probation officer.
• Shall not take any health supplements or herbal pills, powders, or "remedies." Only allowed one brand name over-the-counter daily multi-vitamin unless doctor prescribed. Also shall not consume any poppy seed products.
• Cannot go to any local casino.
• May not enter any establishments wherein the primary source of income is the dispensing of alcoholic beverages (no bars, liquor stores, alcohol cruises, or taverns).
• Must abide by 10 p.m. curfew unless receiving prior permission or curfew change by probation officer.
• Must live in Kootenai County.
• Upon entry into the program, you will review each one of these conditions with your probation officer and initial each one.

Contact the Drug Court Coordinator for more information.

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Elections

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1. How do I vote?

To be a voter in Kootenai County you must register with the Kootenai County Elections Department at 1808 North 3rd Street, Coeur d'Alene. You can register at the office, register online, or fill out a Registration Card online, and drop off or mail a filled out Voter Registration Card. Be advised that the Voter Registration Form cannot be emailed or faxed because Idaho Law requires your original signature.

2. Can registration cards be obtained anywhere else?

Yes, you can find registration cards at the Department of Motor Vehicles and most City Halls or you can Register Online. Contact the Elections Department at 208-446-1030 for more information.

3. What if I cannot make it to my polling place on election day?

You may fill out an absentee request at Vote Idaho to have a ballot mailed to you. Printable forms are available on our Absentee Voting page.  Completed forms may be emailed, faxed, mailed, or dropped off at the Elections Department.

4. Are there any other ways to vote besides at my polling place or by a mailed absentee ballot?

Yes, early voting at the Elections Department is available. Depending on the size of the election, early voting will occur for two to four weeks prior to the election. Early voting closes at 5 p.m. the Friday before election day.

5. When do polling place locations change?

Polling places may change permanently due to lack of availability at the current polling place and when precinct boundaries are moved. A polling place may also change temporarily due to construction, emergencies, or a schedule conflict. In any event written notice is given to all registered voters in the precincts affected. Look up your current polling place.

6. How are polling places selected?

We check to see what facilities are available in a specific precinct. We then look for accessibility, parking, fees, and amount of space. Visit our polling place page for more information.

7. How do I find out who's running?

At the close of filing we post the candidates and their contact information on our website. Contact the Elections Department at 208-446-1030 for more information.

8. How do I find out what is on the ballot? Do I get to vote on everything?

Sample ballots are posted on our website 30 to 45 days before each election.  What a voter is eligible to vote on is determined by where you live and the taxing district boundaries you live within.  Call the Elections Department at 208-446-1030 for more information.  

9. How do I find out when there is an election?

There are four possible elections each year. The specific dates for each election is posted on the homepage of our website. Contact the Elections department at 208-446-1030 for more information.

10. Does the County provide a voter's guide?

The County does not provide a voter's guide. We do offer candidate contact information and sample ballots, both in our office and on our website. The local newspaper tends to run information regarding candidates and/or issues on the ballot.

11. I am in the military how do I request a ballot? How does my spouse request a ballot?

Military and their spouses and Overseas Citizens can use the Federal Post Card Application for registration and absentee voting. For more information, go to the Federal Voting Assistance Program Website or call the Elections Office at 208-446-1030.

12. Does Idaho have permanent absentee status for its voters?

No, absentee ballots must be requested on a calendar year basis.

13. Will my mailed absentee ballot be counted if it arrives after election day?

No, absentee ballots must be to the Elections Department by 8 p.m. on Election Day for the ballot to be counted.

14. Do poll workers receive training?

In Kootenai County poll workers receive training prior to every Election. Learn more on our Poll Workers page.

15. What does the election staff do when it's not election time?

The Elections Department performs other functions related to elections such as the certification of Initiative and Referendum Petitions. There are always projects we are working on to better improve the efficiency of our department. Learn more on our Duties of the Elections Department page.

16. How do I change my party affiliation?

Party Affiliation change forms are available at the Elections Department and on the Party Affiliation page of our website. Completed forms may be emailed, faxed, mailed, or dropped off at the Elections Department.

17. How do I get off your mailing list?

The Elections Department does not regularly mail out information. However, your mailing address can be requested by candidates and other entities as it is public record. To prohibit this, you would have to be removed from our voter registration database. In order to cancel your registration, you would need to request in person or in writing. Contact the Elections Department at 208-446-1030 for more information.

18. Is my voting information public record?

Yes. All information on your voter registration card is public record with the following exceptions:

• Month and Day of birth
• Driver's license number
• Last four digits of your Social Security number

Party affiliation and voting history are also public record. 

Please Note

While we do keep track of what elections you vote in, we do not keep track of who or what you voted for, as all ballots are secret and not tied to your voter information.

19. How do candidates and/or parties get my information?

Candidates and parties can request lists of registered voters, which can only be used for political purposes.  If you have any other questions, comments, or concerns you can contact the Kootenai County Elections Department at 208-446-1030 or email us.

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FireSmart

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1. Does my property qualify for treatment?

The program is focusing on connectivity of treatments to improve effectiveness of preventing an intense and severe wild land fire event. If your project is near or adjacent to fuel breaks, prescribed burns, or hazardous fuel reduction projects, it is more likely to qualify. Areas in the county where multiple land owners and partnerships exist will have the best eligibility for grant funding to assist in hazardous fuels reduction.

2. Are you clear cutting my property?

No. The program focuses on reducing surface and ladder fuels, which in the event of a wild land fire, promotes crown replacing fires that move rapidly and are difficult to contain. The program typically modifies a forested stand structure by cutting under story, suppressed vegetation up to 6 inch diameter material. The program would like to promote large fire resistant trees that are native to our ecosystem. The desired future condition in a forested stand is one where a fire event would burn on the surface, be easy to control, and not cause mortality to the over story tree species.

3. Do you have to treat my whole property?

No. The program strives to promote treatments that are effective and makes sense in preventing a catastrophic fire event in our community. If it doesn't make sense to treat a portion of your land, by all means, treatment would not be prescribed.

4. What kind of work does hazardous fuels reduction entail?

Typical hazardous fuel reduction work on private property entails mechanically cutting surface and ladder fuels with a chainsaw or brush saw and placing the cut material in piles away from leave-trees. Piles are typically constructed to be about 4 foot high and 4 foot in diameter, covered with a sheet of plastic to retain an area of drier fuels in the pile. Piles are then typically burned in the fall months when the risk of fire spreading to adjacent fuels is really low.

5. How do you burn piles?

Landowners must first contact their local fire district and obtain a permit to burn hazardous fuels. The fire district will direct you to coordinate your burning activities with the Department of Air Quality so as to burn when smoke dispersal is the best to minimize air quality effects. Fire managers typically use a drip torch that drizzles a gasoline (33%) and diesel (66%) mixture selectively out of the torch over a flaming wick, inducing intense fire that ignites material in the pile. Patience is often the best rule of thumb when burning piles, avoiding getting too many piles on fire and inducing mortality on desired vegetation and increasing the risk of control difficulties.

6. Why is fuel reduction important?

Kootenai County encompasses a fire regime that was once dominated by frequent low intensity wildfires. As our county increases in population these historic events have obviously been suppressed, deemed a public nuisance and damaging to values at risk (homes, etc). The vegetation responds and suppressed, shaded vegetation has continued in succession and often times provides a pathway for fire to burn from the surface to the crowns of trees with high rates of spread and large flame lengths. Hazardous fuels reduction modifies the fuel complex so that in the event of a wild land fire occurring, it burns with low intensity, small flame lengths, and slow rates of spread, easily managed by fire personnel. This keeps our values on the landscape and makes our county a safer place to live.

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Guardianship & Conservatorship

Show All Answers

1. How do I become a guardian or conservator?

A desire to assist a vulnerable person, followed by a legal consultation may be your first steps. A petition is then filed with the Court. Completing a background check and online training (to become familiar with the rules of guardianship and conservatorship) are not optional, and will be ordered by the presiding Judge in your case. For more information contact the Guardianship and Conservatorship Monitor at 208-446-2147.

2. What are least restrictive measures?

If a proposed protected person is unable to manage their finances, a less restrictive measure may be the use of a representative payee, who will make sure the protected person's money is managed properly, or setting up a co-signature account with the proposed protected person's bank. If a proposed person under guardianship is unable to provide for their own care and needs, a trusted person could assist them, they could assign a power of attorney, or if guardianship is believed to be necessary, a limited guardianship may be sufficient. 

Even with a guardian or conservator in place, best practice is to allow the protected person to have as much opportunity to make decisions as possible. In most situations, it is best practice to attempt less restrictive measures prior to petitioning the Court for full guardianship or conservatorship. Contact us at 208-446-2147 for any further questions.

3. What if I cannot afford an attorney?

You could make legal counsel aware of the cost prohibition of petitioning for guardianship or conservatorship. Some law firms charge according to income, or it may be possible for the potential protected person to pay the legal fees. Call the Guardianship and Conservatorship Monitor at 208-446-1247 for more information.

4. Am I liable for the protected person's decisions?

No. A legal guardian is only responsible for insuring that the person under guardianship has adequate medical attention, shelter, food, and clothing. A Court appointed guardian is not responsible for the actions of the person under guardianship.

5. How often must I report to the Court?

Guardians must file an initial report with the Court within 30 days of being appointed, and then once per year, on the anniversary of the appointment. Conservators must file an initial report within 90 days of being appointed, and then once per year, on the anniversary of the appointment. For more information, contact the Guardianship and Conservatorship Monitor at 208-446-2147.

6. Who reviews my reports?

The Court may review the reports directly; however, the Guardianship and Conservatorship Monitor (GCM), of the Judicial District the guardianship was filed and reported in, will also review the report. If there are questions about the report, or concerns, they will be brought to the presiding Judge of the case for direction, and a home visit, interview, or other follow up may be ordered by the Judge. All ordered actions of the GCM will be submitted to the Court and attached to the case file. Contact us at 208-446-2147 for more information.

7. Can I be paid for being a conservator?

Yes, provided the fees are consistent with current rates, in accordance with Idaho law and the order of the Presiding Judge, prior to charging fees.

Caution

A conservator's funds must never be co-mingled with the protected person's funds. Also, the protected person's funds are not ever to be used as a private lending institution for the conservator.

8. What rights do persons under guardianship and/or conservatorship have?

If you have any other questions, comments, or concerns you can contact the Guardianship and Conservatorship Monitoring Program office at 208-446-2147.

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Home FAQs

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1. Where are the transfer stations located?

The Ramsey Transfer Station is located at 3330 N. Ramsey Road in Coeur d'Alene. The closest cross streets are Appleway (to the south) and Kathleen Avenue (to the north). Watch for the signs in the center median on Ramsey Road.

The Prairie Transfer Station is located at 15580 W. Prairie Avenue in Post Falls. The closest intersection is N. Pleasant View Road and Prairie Avenue. The public entrance to the transfer station is just east of the intersection.

2. How do I vote?

To be a voter in Kootenai County you must register with the Kootenai County Elections Office at 1808 North 3rd Street, Coeur d'Alene. You can register at the office or fill out a Registration Card online, and drop off or mail a filled out Voter Registration Card. Be advised that the Voter Registration Form cannot be emailed or faxed because Idaho Law requires your original signature.

3. What is the function of the Board of County Commissioners?

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) serves as the governing body for County government, with final budget authority for all County departments. Additionally, they oversee the daily operations of departments that are not directly under the authority of the other six elected officials in the County. The BOCC meet in a public meeting forum each Tuesday to take official action on County business, and conduct Planning Deliberation meetings each Thursday. The Board also sits as the Board of Equalization to consider property assessment appeals and various tax-related issues.

4. How does the Assessor determine the value on my property?

• Buyers and sellers in the real estate market establish value.  The Assessor's staff researches the market and collects information about properties to estimate value.
• The Assessor's Office has no control over tax rates.
• The Assessor uses standard methods, which utilize the three traditional approaches to value (cost, market, and income), to estimate the fair market value of a given property.
• It is important to note that the Assessor is simply measuring the information produced in the market to determine the estimated value.  The economic principles of supply and demand, along with the desires of the purchasers and sellers of property, determine fair value.

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Juvenile Detention

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1. How do I receive phone calls from my child?

Juveniles are provided an opportunity for one collect phone call per day and are restricted to calling only parents, grandparents, legal guardians, probation officer, and attorneys. They cannot receive incoming calls.

Juveniles can only call numbers that have been approved and added by our staff to our system. Be sure to contact us so that we may verify your number. Follow the directions (PDF) to place a deposit on your phone number. You will not be able to find the Juvenile by name.

2. Who is allowed to visit and how do I schedule a visit?

Authorized Visitors

Regular Visiting 

(Parents, Grandparents, and Legal Guardians only)

Regular visitation is on Saturdays and Sundays by appointment only.

Visitation slots are scheduled by phone, in 30 minute time slots.  

Special visitation:

Special visitation is reserved for parents, grandparents and guardians that are unable to attend regular visitation.

These visits may be granted on a case by case basis and will be scheduled outside of the normal visitation hours.

Special visits are scheduled by appointment only and must have pre-approval.

Visitors will be denied access to the facility if they are believed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or are experiencing symptoms of illness.

Please call (208) 446-1900 to schedule a visitation

3. What are the rules when I visit my child?

1. All visits are "no contact" and visitors must sign in prior to entry.
2. Picture identification must be presented each time you visit to verify your identity.
3. Visitors are routinely requested to empty their pockets prior to entering for visits, and may be subject to a search. If visitors refuse, their visitation may be denied.
4. Visitors will be denied access to the facility if they are believed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
5. Personal property and/or anything that could be considered hazardous and/or dangerous is not allowed inside the facility. This includes, but is not limited to:
   • All purses
   • Cigarette lighters
   • Large belt buckles
   • Matches
   • Pocketknives
   • Sunglasses
   • Wallets
   • Etc.
6. Visitors must remove any chewing tobacco, gum, or candy from their mouths prior to entering the secure part of the facility.
7. If a visitor passes contraband or other unauthorized items to Juvenile Detention Center (JDC) residents, the visitor's right to visit will be suspended and/or permanently denied. Any passing of contraband will result in a criminal complaint being filed against the visitor.
8. The following clothing items are not permitted during visitation: 
   • Bare feet
   • Jackets or coats
   • Revealing shorts
   • See-through shirts/blouses
   • Swimsuits
   • Tank tops
   • Tube tops

4. Does my child have access to medical care?

Yes, the facility Nurse works Monday through Friday. Please advise staff of any medical issues, including medication requirements, allergies or any special care instructions.

5. Is there a Mental Health Clinician?

Yes, the facility Clinician works Monday through Friday. The Clinician works with other agencies to help connect juveniles with services when necessary and conducts risk assessments. Formal Counseling is not conducted.

6. Can juveniles receive mail?

Juveniles may receive mail and are given 2 stamps per week if they wish to send mail. Additional stamps can be brought in for them if desired. A return address is required and must include full name and address of sender.

Example of addressing mail:
(Name of Juvenile)
c/o Juvenile Detention Center
P.O. Box 9000
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83816

7. What can I bring in to my child?

• Books, not hardcover. They can have up to 4 in their room at a time. Books remain in facility.
• Deck of Cards (Must be new and in sealed package)
• Carmex or similar (In squeeze tube, sealed bubble package)
• Photographs-no Polaroid type (up to 5)
• Magazines (from list)
  • Better Homes and Gardens Time
  • Car and Driver
  • Dirt Bike
  • Field and Stream
  • People
  • Newsweek
  • Popular Mechanics
  • Popular Science
  • Reader's Digest
  • Snowboarder
  • Sound and Vision
  • Sports Illustrated
  • Sports Illustrated for Kids
  • Stereo Review
  • Teen People
  • Teen Skiing

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Juvenile Diversion

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1. If a juvenile participates in the Diversion program, will any charges or convictions appear on their record?

In most cases, a juvenile who successfully completes the Diversion program will not have any formal Court record.  However, if a police report was generated, both the Police Department as well as the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will have records of the juvenile’s involvement in the case.  The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also maintains records of the juvenile’s participation in the Diversion program.  

2. How confidential is a juvenile’s participation in the Diversion program?

No information concerning a juvenile’s participation in the Diversion program is made public.  Diversion records are confidential and are not disseminated to other entities.  As a component of supervision Diversion Officers do confirm and discuss a juvenile’s attendance and progress with school personnel and law enforcement.  Additionally, with consent from parents/legal guardians, Diversion Officers also discuss cases with counsellors, therapists, and other treatment providers in order to monitor compliance with the conditions of Diversion.

3. Can a juvenile in the Diversion program travel out of state?

There are no travel restrictions for juveniles on Diversion.  All conditions continue to apply to juveniles travelling out of state including the requirement to check in with their Diversion Officer on a weekly basis.  Juveniles on Diversion who have been travelling may be required to take a drug and alcohol test upon their return.

4. Do you have a list of approved Community Service work sites?

Diversion does not provide any referrals to any specific community service sites.  Community Service work must be performed with/for a non-profit organization, however Diversion accepts hours worked for ANY non-profit in the community. Options include churches, senior centers, community centers, libraries, schools, parks and recreation departments, the humane society, thrift stores, and social service providers.  Working for a private employer/business for no wages does NOT constitute community service.

5. Can a juvenile on Diversion get a Driver’s License?

Being on Diversion does not, in and of itself, specifically prohibit a juvenile from obtaining their Driver’s License.  However, in rare cases, a juvenile’s ability to drive may be impacted by conditions of Diversion specific to their case when appropriate.  In the event that a particular juvenile has a restriction or is otherwise prohibited from obtaining their license as a part of a separate Court order or condition, the juvenile will need to address this situation with the appropriate legal authority.  

6. Can a juvenile on Diversion apply for a job?

There is no condition of Diversion that specifically prohibits a juvenile from seeking, obtaining, or maintaining employment, and in general juveniles who have the permission of their parent/legal guardian to have a job will be encouraged to do so as there are many positive benefits to being employed.  It is also important to realize that a juvenile on Diversion is responsible to pay certain fees and may have restitution; having a way to earn money in an appropriate fashion is a great way for the juvenile to both take responsibility for their situation and also experience the sense of empowerment and other pro-social benefits that come with gainful employment.  However, employment must be appropriate and cannot interfere with the juvenile successfully completing the conditions of Diversion.

7. Who needs to be present for the initial meeting with Diversion?

It is important that both the juvenile as well as at least one parent/legal guardian be present for the initial meeting with Diversion.  While this is the minimum, we encourage both parents/guardians to be present as this meeting covers not only the conditions, rules, and requirements of Diversion, but also serves as an important opportunity for us to meet you and begin to establish a rapport with you and your family.  We do ask that young children are not brought to the meeting as it typically lasts for about an hour.

8. Does the Juvenile Diversion program offer any services to juveniles who are not involved in the juvenile justice system? What kinds of services are offered in these cases?

Kootenai County Juvenile Diversion offers a number of groups and programs, some of which are open to participation for juveniles in the community who are not involved in the juvenile justice system.  Primary among these programs is the Project Towards No Drug Abuse prevention program.  Kootenai County Juvenile Diversion takes juveniles from the community for involvement in these programs through referral from schools, law enforcement, community organizations, and in some cases by direct referral from the parent.  If you are interested in learning more about these programs and the opportunity for juveniles to participate in these programs please contact Kootenai County Juvenile Diversion at 208-446-1970.

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Land Records Division

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1. Can I see a map of my property?

The Assessor's Office has parcel maps covering all properties in Kootenai County. The maps are filed first by township, then by range, then by section, and lastly by quarter section. These maps are available for your viewing at our office at 451 Government Way in Coeur d'Alene from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays.

There are numerous parcel maps covering the County. They show the parcel numbers for each property. To determine which map shows your property, we would need that parcel number or a legal description to locate it on the map. To help locate and identify ownership of a parcel, our office also has a large wall map of Kootenai County and wall maps for the cities of Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, and Rathdrum.

The parcel maps and wall maps may also be used to help determine ownership of properties other than your own. You may also go to the web page for the Mapping Division under the Assessor Home Page. The Mapping page will direct you to the Parcel Maps. For more information, contact the Assessor at 208-446-1500.

2. May I purchase a copy?

The Assessor's Office can make photocopies of portions of the parcel maps. The cost is $1 for the first page and $0.25 for each page thereafter. The full sized parcel maps may be purchased at the Information Center of our building at 451 Government Way in Coeur d'Alene. The maps measure approximately 17 inches by 24 inches and cost $2 each. When requesting a map, please specify the Section, Township, and Range of the map you need. In many cases you will also need to specify the quarter section of the particular section map (northeast quarter, northwest quarter, southwest quarter, or southeast quarter). The Assessor's Office can help you identify the map you wish to purchase.  

• If you wish to purchase a map and have it mailed to you, the cost of shipping is $2.
• You may also purchase a black and white map of Kootenai County from the Information Center. This map measures approximately 36 inches by 45 inches and costs $5.
• Other maps available for purchase from the Information Center are the following:
• Survey maps
• Recorder's plat maps (platted subdivisions)
• The above two types of maps come in two sizes:
  • 11 inches by 14 inches - These cost $1 each.
  • Large size - The sizes vary considerably and cost $4 each.
• There is a charge of $2 to mail these maps also.

For more information about maps contact the Kootenai County Information Center at 208-446-1500.

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Marine Identification

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1. As a landowner, what do I need to do with the U.S. Postal Service?

Nothing. As a landowner having an address associated with overland mail delivery, no changes will result from the issuance of the Marine Response Identification Number. Marine Identification Numbers (PDF) simply provide a uniform way of establishing the ability of emergency responders with a way to identify and locate your property from the water in the event of an emergency.

2. When will the Marine Response Identification Number actually be assigned or changed?

The new Marine Identification Number (PDF) will become effective on November 1, 2009.

3. How can I ensure that I continue to receive my magazine subscriptions?

As a landowner having an address associated with overland mail delivery, no changes will result from the issuance of the Marine Response Identification Number (PDF).

4. Where am I required to place the Marine Identification numbers?

Where a Marine Response Identification Number is used, the number shall be posted on a pier, dock, or other waterfront appurtenance, no less than four feet nor more than six feet above the ground or high water line. The sign must be clearly readable to emergency providers arriving by boat. For more information, contact Community Development at 208-446-1070.

5. What size and configuration is required for displaying the Marine Identification numbers?

The identification number sign shall be, no less than four feet nor more than six feet above the ground on a substantial, maintained support structure. The view of the identification numbers from the water must be unobstructed and maintained. All primary letters, numbers, and symbols shall be a minimum of 3 1/2 inches in height, with a one-half inch stroke, and shall contrast with the background color. Contact Community Development at 208-446-1070 for more information.

6. What is a "Marine Response Identification Number"?

A Marine Response Identification Number (PDF) is used to identify parcels of land along waterfront property. The Marine identification Number is not used as an address; rather it is for emergency assistance. The dispatchers would be able to cross reference the parcel address and the Marine identification number and send a water craft for a faster emergency response time. For further questions, contact Community Development at 208-446-1070.

7. What is a "Marine Address"?

A Marine Address is a number assigned to waterfront property that is accessible only by water. The Marine Address can be used for U.S. Postal Service delivery as well as for emergency assistance.

8. What needs to be included on the Marine Identification posting; the entire address or just the numbers?

Posting of Marine Identification numbers only requires the "numbers" be posted (just like house numbers). Do not post the entire address.

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Medical Assistance

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1. Do I have to pay back the county for money spent on my behalf?

Idaho Code 31-3510(A) provides that if a county or the state provides any financial assistance to pay for medical services, the applicant shall be obligated to reimburse the county and the State Catastrophic Health Care Cost Program for such reasonable portion as the Board of County Commissioners may determine the applicant is able to repay over a reasonable period of time. Please click on this link,  Liens and Reimbursement for more information.

2. Is a Lien placed against my property?

Yes. Idaho Code 31-3504(4) provides that:

"Upon application for financial assistance an automatic lien shall attach to all real and personal property of the applicant and on insurance benefits to which the applicant may become entitled." The lien shall also attach to any additional resources to which it may legally attach not covered. 

For more information, contact County Assistance at 208-446-1886.

3. If my application is denied, can I appeal?

Yes, per Idaho Code 31-3505(D). You may appeal a denial of your application by filing a written Notice of Appeal with the Board of County Commissioners (this can be filed in the office of County Assistance). Your Notice of Appeal must be filed within 28 days of the date of the initial determination. If you do not file this appeal timely, the decision of the Board is final. There is no cost to file an appeal.

Please be advised that the provider (doctor or hospital) has the legal right to file an appeal on its own behalf if your application is denied and they may pursue the appeal, even if you choose not to. If an appeal is timely filed, a hearing will be scheduled before the Board of County Commissioners and you will receive a notice from this office giving you the time, date and place of the hearing. You have the right to appear at the hearing and be heard by the Board regarding the denial of your application.

4. If my application is approved, how soon will my doctor and hospital be paid?

State law requires payment within 60 days of Board of Kootenai County Commissioners approval. Contact County Assistance for more information.

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Mental Health Court

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1. What if I have a serious medical condition?

In general, if you have a serious medical condition you will not be excluded from Mental Health Court. You must be willing to fully disclose your condition and medical care to the treatment providers and Mental Health Court team. If you are taking a prescribed medication for your condition, you must continue to do so. Although we can be flexible and work around your condition, you must be able to engage in and complete treatment. For further information, contact us at 208-446-1219.

2. Can I use prescription medication?

As a general rule, Mental Health Court participants are expected to be drug free, including the unauthorized use of prescription medication.

If your doctor prescribes medication, you must bring in the prescription to your probation officer as well as the drug testing facility. You will then sign a release so that your probation officer can verify the prescription. While in Mental Health Court, you must use one doctor or one dentist and one pharmacy. We also require that you notify the medical professional of your addiction and that you request non-narcotic pain medications when a prescription is being recommended. For further questions, contact Mental Health Court at 208-446-1219.

3. What happens once I am in the program?

You will be required to participate fully in the program to graduate from Mental Health Court. This will include:

• Random drug testing
• Court appearances
• Making payments
• Verifying self-help meetings
• Individual and group therapy
• Mental health treatment
• On going contact with your probation officer

Contact the Mental Health Court at 208-446-1219 for more information.

4. What if I want to travel outside of Kootenai County?

If you need to travel outside Kootenai County, you must first contact your probation officer to request permission to leave. As a condition of travel, the probation officer my require you to submit to a drug test prior to leaving and immediately upon return. Another condition may be that a treatment group not be missed. If a treatment group would be missed, further permission from your treatment provider would be required. Call Mental Health Court at 208-446-1219 for any follow-up questions.

5. What sanctions are given?

If you do not comply with the treatment tasks, probation conditions, or do not attend mandatory meetings, the Judge will sanction your actions. Possible sanctions include but are not limited to:

• Community service hours
• Electronic monitoring
• Increased AA / NA meetings
• Increased drug testing
• Jail time
• Return to prior phase
• Sheriff's labor program
• Writing assignments

Any further questions about sanctions should be directed to the Mental Health Court office at 208-446-1219.

6. How do drug screens work?

You will be required to provide ongoing random urine samples to monitor your progress. A same-sex employee at the testing facility will supervise you when you give a specimen. Urinalysis reports are documented and available to the court. Any positive urine screens, tampered samples or refusal to provide a sample may be grounds for sanctions from the judge.

Poppy seeds are a concentrated form of opium and should not be eaten, Some "power drinks" contain pseudoephedrine and are not to be taken. Your recovery is important. Staying away from these items will not only give you clean tests, it will keep substances out of your system which may trigger old addictions.

You must be very careful not to ingest:

• Alcohol
• All over-the-counter medications (such as Nyquil and including nasal sprays) without prior approval from your probation officer
• Controlled substances
• Excessive Water
• Flushing Agents
• Metabolife or other over the counter diet aids
• "Natural" or herbal remedies
• "Power" drinks (Red Bull and others)
• Poppy seeds in any form (muffins, breads, bagels, etc.)

Contact us at 208-446-1219 for any other questions regarding drug screening.

7. What if I relapse?

You may relapse during this program, but that just means you have more work to do. It does not necessarily mean, however, that you will be terminated from the program. The Mental Health Court team understands that addiction is a devastating disease which consumes you. All we ask is that you are honest and tell us if it happens. That way the team can make sure the program is fitting your needs, or if you need something different or something more. 

Contact the Mental Health Court Coordinator for any concerns you may have.

8. What are grounds for termination from Mental Health Court?

If you are terminated from Mental Health Court you will appear before the assigned District Judge for possible imposition of sentence and service of the remainder of your prison sentence in the state penitentiary.

You can reach out to Mary Wolfinger at 208-446-12189 for more information.

9. What if I know that another Mental Health Court client is breaking the program rules?

Participants of the Mental Health Court should maintain group accountability by reporting any rule violations. If one client knows that another client is breaking the rules and doesn't report it, both clients could be sanctioned including loss of phase points. Contact Mary Wolfinger at 208-446-1219 for more information.

10. What are my conditions of probation in Mental Health Court?

Some of the standard conditions of probation in Mental Health Court are as follows:

• Should I be terminated from the treatment program, I will be sentenced by the Court based upon my admission to the probation violation(s) (or if a new charge, based upon my guilty plea).
• Shall participate in and complete the Mental Health Court Personal Recovery Program as designed by my treatment provider to the satisfaction of the Court.
• Shall not knowingly associate with persons using or possessing controlled substances and shall not associate with any person(s) the Court or probation officer specifically restricts me from associating with, this may include family members.
• Shall not work with any police agency on drug cases or cases where I may come into contact with controlled substances. I may voluntarily provide historical information to a police agency regarding my involvement with controlled substances.
• Pay a non-refundable participation fee in an amount to be determined based on ability to pay, not to exceed $300 per month. Should i be terminated from the program for any reason, the participation fee and any unpaid treatment costs will still be due and owing.
• Any failure of the treatment program (including but not limited to positive urinalysis tests, missing treatment, violation of release conditions, commission of a new crime) may result in modification of the treatment program, release conditions, revocations of my release, and/or termination from the program.
• Seek and maintain employment or obtain employment counseling, complete high school or obtain a G.E.D. as directed by the Court. Must be employed full time or alternative as ordered by your probation officer.
• Appear in court for any scheduled hearings regardless of my compliance with the treatment program.
• Length of time of participation in the program is ordinarily 18 months, but the Court may extend the program to allow me additional time to successfully complete my program requirements.
• Report any change of address and/or phone number to the Court and my treatment provider within 48 hours. I must get permission from my probation officer prior to moving.
• Submit to random urinalysis testing at my own expense. Any unpaid tests at termination will still be due and owing.
• Maintain regular contact with my attorney
• Appear for all court dates.
• Remain in Kootenai County, except for employment, court, or family visitation purposes with permission of your Probation Officer. Permission must be obtained five days prior to leaving.
• Commit no law violations.
• Shall not possess or use a police band scanner.
• Report all law enforcement contacts immediately to probation officer (Any contact even if not arrested or cited).
• Not use or possess any non-prescribed substance(s) or alcohol. All prescriptions must be shown to probation officer, treatment personnel and drug testing personnel immediately upon receipt.
• If you have a current prescription, you must take any prescribed medications in the prescribed dosages at the prescribed times.
• Not use or possess any substances intended to alter the results of a test of my blood, breath, or urine. All positive, adulterated or diluted urinalysis are considered to be positive.
• Shall report to/be available for contact with probation officer, counselor, and treatment provider.
• Shall not use, possess, or sell any illegal controlled substances or drug paraphernalia.
• Shall obey all geographic restrictions set forth by the Mental Health Court Judge or probation officer.
• Shall be prohibited from possessing a weapon or look-alike weapon or ammunition.
• Consent to interviews in residence upon request of counselor, treatment provider or probation officer.
• Shall not take any health supplements or herbal pills, powders, or "remedies." Only allowed one brand name over-the-counter daily multi-vitamin unless doctor prescribed. Also shall not consume any poppy seed products.
• Cannot go to any local casino.
• May not enter any establishments wherein the primary source of income is the dispensing of alcoholic beverages (no bars, liquor stores, alcohol cruises, or taverns).
• Must abide by 10 p.m. curfew unless receiving prior permission or curfew change by probation officer.
• Must live in Kootenai County.
• Upon entry into the program, you will review each one of these conditions with your probation officer and initial each one.

Contact the Mental Health Court Coordinator for more information.

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Noxious Weed Control

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1. Is there a law in Idaho that requires landowners to control the noxious weeds on their property?

Yes. You may access the Idaho statute at the Idaho Legislature website.

2. I thought the Noxious Weed Control Office took care of all the weeds in the county?

Idaho State law states that it is the responsibility of the land owner to control the noxious weeds on their property. Contact Noxious Weed Control at 208-446-1290 for more information.

3. Who takes care of the noxious weeds on private roads?

The land owner(s) or homeowner's association is responsible for controlling the noxious weeds in these areas. For more questions, contact Noxious Weed Control at 208-446-1290.

4. What is a noxious weed?

Noxious weeds are non-native plants that were brought into Idaho through human actions. Because they grow aggressively and have no natural enemies in our area, these species of plants can be destructive to wildlife habitat, competitive with crops and difficult to control. Legally, a noxious weed is any plant designated by a Federal, State or county government as injurious to public health, agriculture, recreation, wildlife or property. Some characteristics of noxious weeds include:

• They produce large numbers of new plants each season.
• They tolerate many soil types and weather conditions.
• They spread easily and efficiently, usually by wind, water, or animals
• They grow rapidly, allowing them to displace slower growing plants.
• Spread rampantly when they are free of the natural checks and balances found in their native range.

Learn more on our Weeds page.

5. How did noxious weeds get here and where did they come from?

Most of these weeds came from Europe and Asia and were transported to the United States with the colonists who brought many plants and seeds species when they came to the United States. Accidental transport occurred in the ballast of ships, in the fleece and hair of livestock, in clothing, and as contaminants in agricultural seed. Other weeds came in as medicine, dyes and ornamental plants. A portion of the noxious weeds were intentionally introduced for use in agriculture, landscaping, erosion control and for sale in the nursery trade. Contact Noxious Weed Control at 208-446-1290 for more information.

6. My neighbor has spotted knapweed it looks bad and it is blowing into my yard. What can I do?

Is your property being maintained? If so, spotted knapweed will not take hold in a property that is being watered, fertilized and mowed. Do you live within the city limits? Most cities have ordinances for vegetation height that are stricter than the state weed law. Contact the Code Enforcement Officer in your city. Do you live in a subdivision/neighborhood with covenants? Many homeowner associations have stricter rules than the state weed law and can have properties maintained within a subdivision at a cost to the owner. 

Homeowner associations can notify property owners (both local and "absentee") about weed control and some will have the maintenance done and then send them a bill. Most people will voluntarily take appropriate action once they become aware of the problem. If there is a property within Kootenai County that is infested and the owner is not controlling noxious weeds then the County weed control can respond to official complaints. Contact the Noxious Weed Control department for more information.

7. The spotted knapweed on my neighbor's property looks awful! Would you please do an inspection and make them spray it?

When spotted knapweed gets high and dry, it looks bad. Spraying doesn't solve the problem because it's usually too high and too hot to spray. We will gladly do an inspection and inform your neighbor that according to Idaho State Law it is the responsibility of the homeowner to control noxious weeds on their property. This office supports mowing as a control and containment method (which is supported in the State law), but we cannot make people spray their weeds (landowner rights). Also, mowing needs to be done when it's safe, once the weather has cooled and/or rain has relieved the dry conditions.

Learn more on our Managing Your Land or Noxious Weeds pages.

8. What is a surfactant and why should I use one?

It is common to use adjuvant/surfactants mixed with herbicides. These products, sometimes call spreader-stickers, increase the success of the treatment. They do this by improved penetration, increasing coverage, and extra absorption on the plants being sprayed. Some common brand names are R-11, R-900 and Sylgard 309.

If there are any questions about the use of a chemical product, please call your local weed control agency for instructions.

9. Every year I spray the weeds on my property and the next year it seems I have as many or more than before. How can I stop the weeds?

Herbicides are powerful tools, so they must be used according to label directions. Unfortunately, herbicides are used too often as the only control method. Herbicides can be one component of a good management plan. You can find more information from our Publications. Other methods include:

• Hoeing, hand pulling and mowing.
• Planting or over seeding the area with desirable grasses.  If watering is an issue, use drought tolerant pasture grass seed.
• Fertilizing to encourage existing grasses to spread out and take over bare ground.

10. I would like to know what types of weeds are growing on my property. Can the Noxious Weed Control Department help me with this?

Yes. Please call our office or submit the Investigation Request from this website. We will be happy to set up a site visit with you. We will discuss the different weeds you have and how to control them.

11. Does your office provide herbicide to private landowners or can they purchase it from the county?

No, the county does not sell herbicide, nor does it give herbicide to private landowners. Peruse our Resources list for local helpful resources.

12. Why should I care about noxious weeds? I want my land to be natural!

Letting noxious weeds take over your property does not leave your land natural. Noxious weeds will eventually replace all native vegetation if the land is not managed correctly. Learn more on our Managing Your Land page.

13. What is an EDRR Weed?

Idaho State Department of Agriculture defines Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) as finding invasive plant species during the initial stages of colonization and then responding within the same season to initiate eradication of the invasive plant species. Please see the list of EDRR weeds on the Weeds page. If you see any of the weeds on that list, please report it as soon as possible to the Kootenai County Noxious Weeds Control Office so we can positively identify it, map its location, and assist you in eradicating it.

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Parks & Waterways

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1. Is a fee required to launch at Kootenai County Launches?

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

2. Is a fee required to park at Kootenai County 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.

3. Is a fee required for launching a kayak or canoe without a trailer?

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.

4. How long can I park or moor at a Kootenai County facility?

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

5. Is the Idaho State Parks pass valid at Kootenai County Launches?

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

6. What is the process to request a change to a County Waterways Ordinance, request placement of buoys, or make other requests related to Kootenai County Waterways?

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. 

7. How do I obtain a permit for construction and installation of a private dock at my waterfront property?

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.

8. Is a boater safety course required in Idaho?

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.

9. How do I contact other public agencies?

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

10. I need information on how to have my household water turned off/on.

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.

11. Is the water level of Lake Coeur d'Alene going to change?

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 

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Prosecuting Attorney

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1. When I report a crime to the police, will I be required to sign a criminal complaint?

You do not need to sign a criminal complaint if you report a crime. However, the officer may ask you to sign a copy of the citation if you desire to make a citizen's arrest or if you witnessed a misdemeanor crime. For more questions, contact the Prosecuting Attorney at 208-446-1800.

2. Please describe what happens after a criminal complaint is filed?

The defendant receives a copy of the complaint from the court after a criminal complaint is filed. The defendant is required to be present at a first after the prosecutor receives a copy of the complaint. At the first appearance, an attorney is appointed if the defendant cannot afford an attorney. A trail date is set within six months. 

For a felony crime, a preliminary hearing date is set after the first appearance. The victim and certain other witnesses may be required to appear at the preliminary hearing. The State needs to only establish probable cause at the preliminary hearing, and if done, the magistrate judge sends the case to the highest court (District Court) for a trial within six months.

Any more questions should be directed to the Prosecuting Attorney at 208-446-1800.

3. Why does the Prosecutor's Office plea bargain with criminals?

The prosecutor will only "plea bargain" if this results in a "bargain" for the victim and the citizens. For instance, the prosecutor may dismiss one criminal count if the defendant pleads guilty to another similar count. This may occur if the punishment will be the same whether the defendant pleads to one count or multiple counts. 

A plea bargain often means the victim will not need to testify. It also means a speedier disposition of the case. Generally, the prosecutor is reluctant to plea bargain cases which involve children, violence, and repeat offenders. The victim will always be consulted prior to a plea bargain. The sad reality is that many cases are forced to be plea bargained because there are insufficient judges, courtrooms, prosecutors, defense counsel and money to take thousands of criminal cases to trial annually. In 2004, over 1200 felony cases and over 3,000 misdemeanor cases were filed.

Contact the Prosecuting Attorney Office at 208-446-1800 with any further questions.

4. How do I get a restraining order?

If your case enters the criminal justice system, the prosecutor can ask the judge that the defendant have no contact with the victim and other persons. Victims of personal acquaintance and family violence can also go to the criminal clerk in the courthouse to obtain a "No Contact Order". No lawyer is needed to obtain this order. Contact us at 208-446-1800 for any more questions.

5. What happens when I go to court to get a restraining order?

You should contact the Victim-Witness Coordinator or the Domestic Violence Advocate at the Kootenai County Prosecutor's Office at 446-1800, if you need assistance in obtaining a No Contact Order. Generally, you will be asked to state the reasons under oath that you need protection.

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Public Defender

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1. How do I apply for an attorney?

Public Defenders are attorneys appointed by the court. If you are out of custody, you may fill out and submit an application to the Kootenai County Court Clerk, 324 W Garden Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 for a Judge to review or by email to dccriminal@kcgov.us.  If you are in custody, an application will be given to you by jail staff prior to your first appearance. You may also request the judge appoint counsel to represent you at your next court appearance.

2. Will the Public Defender represent me in a civil case?

The Court can appoint the Public Defender’s Office to represent indigent persons involved in mental commitment proceedings, child protection matters, termination of parental rights, and allegations of contempt of a civil judgment. Additionally, the office is sometimes appointed to represent those in post-conviction proceedings.

If you are being sued civilly, have immigration problems, are being evicted from your home, have a worker’s compensation claim, want a divorce, etc., you may qualify for assistance from other agencies. We do not handle those types of cases. Possible agencies include:

• Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program
• Idaho State Bar Lawyer Referral Service
• Idaho Legal Aid Services, Inc.
• Fair Lending/Fair Housing Legal Advice Line
• American Civil Liberties Union
• Idaho Commission on Human Rights
• Disability Rights Idaho

3. What are the charges for which I can be represented by a Kootenai County Public Defender?

If the crime for which you have been charged carries a possible jail or prison sentence, the Public Defender can be appointed by the court to represent you.

4. Can I speak to a Public Defender if I have not been appointed by the Court?

No. Unfortunately, the services of the Public Defender are extended to only those who have been appointed an attorney by the court.

5. Are Public Defenders real lawyers?

Definitely! All public defenders are members of the Idaho State Bar and are licensed to practice law in the state of Idaho. In order to be an attorney in the Kootenai County Public Defender’s office, applicants must go through a rigorous interview process to ensure that the person has the ability, knowledge, and commitment to practice criminal defense law. Public defenders throughout the state of Idaho must adhere to standards created by the Idaho Public Defense Commission, which are higher than privately retained attorneys.

6. Does the Office of the Public Defender have Investigators?

Yes, our investigators will work as a team with you and your assigned attorney to assist in preparation of your case. Their job is to contact any witnesses and obtain evidence that may help demonstrate your innocence or promote any weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case against you. Frequently, it is the work of our investigators that help obtain not guilty verdicts or lighter sentences for clients.

7. Your Rights

If law enforcement questions you, it is essential to keep in mind Miranda warnings: “You have the right to remain silent; anything you say can be used against you in court; you have the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.”  State clearly that you wish to have an attorney present before and during any questioning. If law enforcement continues to question you after you have requested an attorney, repeat your request for an attorney and otherwise remain silent.

8. Who is my assigned attorney?

After a court appoints counsel to represent you, the office will assign an attorney to represent you—usually within 24 hours. Please contact our office at 208-446-1700 after you have been appointed counsel to schedule an appointment with your assigned attorney. Excluding national holidays, our office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00p.m. to 5:00 p.m.,  Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00p.m. 1:00p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday.

9. When is my hearing?

Our receptionists will be more than happy to tell you when your next court appearance is by contacting our office at 208-446-1700. Your attorney will also mail you notice of your upcoming hearings to the address provided on your Application for Public Defender. It is imperative that you let your attorney know if your mailing address or phone number has changed. 

Alternatively, you may also lookup your case by using Idaho’s iCourt Portal. The iCourt portal provides the status of court cases, including hearings, in the State of Idaho.

10. What should I do if a friend/family member has been arrested?

If your friend or family member is arrested, and you are trying to get information, the most important thing you can tell them is that while they are in jail, DO NOT discuss the facts of the case with anyone. Do not talk to the police. Do not talk to other inmates. Do not talk to your friends or family over the phone or over video conference. Only conversations a defendant has with his/her attorney are protected by the attorney-client privilege. Excluding conversations with an attorney, law enforcement and prosecutors review inmate phone calls and video visits. Except for conversations with a lawyer, ALL OTHER CONVERSATIONS AND VIDEO VISITS ARE RECORDED.

Conversations and written correspondence between you and our client are not confidential. It is imperative that you not discuss or correspond with your friend/relative about his or her case.

11. Can I speak with my friend/family member’s Public Defender?

As criminal defense attorneys, our number one priority is to our client. Anything a client tells his/her attorney is confidential. Unless you are a witness or an alleged victim, without permission from the client, we will not discuss matters of your friend/relative’s case with you. Additionally, even if permission has been given by the client to discuss their case with you, it is within the discretion of the handling attorney as to whether they will discuss their client’s case with you.

12. When will a Judge set bail?

If your friend or loved one is in custody, bail is typically set at a video arraignment. A Public Defender will be present at this hearing and argue for bail or release on our client’s behalf based upon the information the client provides. If they have been charged with a felony offense and are still in custody when the Public Defender assigns the case to an attorney, a motion to reduce bail will be filed on our client’s behalf. A reduction in bail will normally be argued again at the next available hearing.

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Recorder

Show All Answers

1. What is the difference between the Recorder's Office and the Records Office?

The Recorder's Office records land documents to make them public record and is located in the Administration Building. The District Court Records Office is where the following documents are filed and is located in the Justice Building:

• Civil
• Criminal
• Divorce
• Juvenile Court
• Probate

2. Where can I get assistance to prepare legal documents?

Recorder's office staff is not authorized to provide legal guidance or forms. We recommend you contact an attorney. You may also visit the Idaho Legal Aid Services website and the State of Idaho Judicial Branch website for further information.

3. Where can I get a copy of an Idaho birth or death certificate?

These documents are available through Idaho Vital Records.

4. Where can I get a copy of a divorce decree or custody order?

These documents are available through the District Court in the county where they were filed.

5. How can I change my name?

If you would like to change your name due to a marriage, please see our Marriage Information page. If the change is not related to a marriage, please visit the State of Idaho Judicial Branch website for downloadable forms and instructions.

6. How do I research an easement, or the history of a piece of property?

You may visit our office to search the recorded land records in our public research room. We will provide instruction on the usage of our computer terminals, however, we are unauthorized to perform your research for you or interpret your search results. If you choose, you may hire a professional records research company (PDF).

7. Can I pay using my credit or debit card?

Generally, we will accept a debit or credit cards. Passports are the exception. Please view the following and how payment can be accepted:

• Alcohol Beverage Licenses - Cash, Check or Card
• Copies - Cash, Check or Card
• Marriage Licenses - Cash or Card
• Passport Kootenai County Processing - Cash, Check or Card
• Passports - Check or Money Order Only (Made payable to the Department of State)
• Recording - Cash, Check or Card

8. Where can I apply for a Homeowner's exemption and/or the Circuit Breaker program?

Please contact the Assessor's Office.

9. How can I find out who owns a piece of property?

You may search the Assessor's Office database.

10. Where do I get a DBA (Doing Business As) form and information for business licensing?

Please contact the Idaho Secretary of State.

11. Where can I find information regarding food permits?

You may contact the city in which you are planning to sell, or you may contact Panhandle Health District 1.

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Recorder - Marriage

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a certified copy of a marriage license?

According to Idaho Statute Title 39, a marriage license does not become public record until 50 years after the date of marriage. However, members of the wedding party may appear in our office and receive certified copies of his or her marriage license, as long as they have identification. Requests can also be made by calling the Bureau of Vital Statistics in Boise. Vital Statistics can be reached at 208-334-5980, or you can visit their website.

2. Who can officiate a marriage ceremony?

Any person recognized as an ordained minister by a reputable church can legally perform a marriage ceremony.

3. Does my officiant need to provide the county with his or her credentials?

No. If there is any question regarding the legitimacy of your officiant, they will be personally contacted by the Bureau of Vital Statistics.

4. How do I change my name after I get married?

In order to change your name, you must take your identification and a certified copy of your marriage license to several places: 

• Banks
• Department of Motor Vehicles
• Insurance Institutes
• Social Security Offices
• Workplaces, Etc.

5. Do I need to change my name within a certain amount of time after getting married?

There is no time limit when it comes to changing your name.

6. Do I need an appointment to get a marriage license?

Marriage licenses are issued on a first come, first serve basis from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

7. After visiting the Recorder's Office and receiving our marriage license, are we married?

No. A couple is married once an officiant has performed a marriage ceremony. The couple is legally married after said ceremony.

8. Do I have to get married in Kootenai County if I applied for my marriage license there?

No. You must get married in the state where you received your marriage license, but you can get married in any county in that state.

9. Can my officiant return the license to any county after the ceremony?

No. The marriage license must be returned to the county that issued it to the couple.

10. Does my marriage license expire?

Your marriage license does not expire. It may be used any time after it is issued. However, we recommend applying within a year of your wedding date.

11. What are the requirements for a minor to get married in Idaho?

According to Idaho Code, any person applying for a marriage license who is either 16 or 17 years old must be no less than 2 years younger than his or her partner. They must also be given written, notarized consent by his or her mother, father, or guardian to marry. Furthermore, the minor applicant must submit his or her certified birth certificate as proof of age and relationship to the guardian. Any person under the age of 16 must do the same, as well as receive a court order to marry. All persons involved must appear at the county Recorder’s Office with all described documentation and social security numbers before a license can be issued. Applicants and guardians must also present government issued photo identification.

12. What happens if an officiant does not return the marriage license to the county office?

The officiant is required to return the marriage license to the county Recorder's office that issued the license within 30 days after the marriage takes place. It is a misdemeanor if the officiant does not return the license in the allotted time. (Idaho Code Section 32-402). If the officiant does not return the license, the couple is still legally married, but the county recorder cannot issue a certified copy to the couple because it was never returned.

13. What is the process for receiving a marriage license when one applicant is incarcerated?

Both members of the marriage party must submit a "letter of intent" to the Kootenai County Jail before the Recorder's Office can begin the marriage license process. Once these are received at the jail, a recording clerk will visit the jail to complete paperwork with the incarcerated party. Then the second applicant will visit the Recorder's Office to complete his or her portion of the paperwork. It is then the responsibility of the applicants to coordinate with an officiant and schedule a ceremony.

14. Where do I file for divorces and annulments?

Divorce and annulment papers are filed in the District Court building's Records department. This is located at:
324 W Garden Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

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Recorder - Passport

Show All Answers

1. Where can I have my passport photos taken?

Any business that processes film will take your passport photos. Local options include:

• Camera Corral
• Costco
• FedEx Kinkos
• Wal Mart
• Walgreens

2. Why do I need multiple passport photos?

If the photo sent with your application is destroyed or lost when being processed, Passport Services will request your second picture. Please keep your extra photos in a safe place until you receive your passport in the mail.

3. Can I pay for my passport with cash or a credit card?

No. Your application is sent from our office to Passport Services, and they will only accept a check or a money order for your passport fee. You must have a separate check or money order for each application being submitted through our office.

4. Does the Recorder's Office send passport renewal applications?

No. Renewal applications are sent by the applicant, not through an Acceptance Agency. Customers are welcome to visit our office if they would like an agent to review his or her application before it is sent to Passport Services at:
451 Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

5. Does my child have to be present when I apply for his or her passport?

Yes. Everyone applying for a passport must be present when the application is submitted.

6. Do both parents need to be present when applying for a minor child's passport?

Both parents must be present with their child at the time of application if the child is 15 years old or younger. If one parent is unable to appear during the application process, the non-applying parent can complete a DS-3053 form ("Statement of Consent: Issuance of a U.S. Passport to a Minor Under Age 16"). This form must be signed in front of a notary and submitted by the applying parent at the time of application, along with a front and back copy of the non-applying parent's identification. Minors who are 16 or 17 are required to apply with one parent present.

7. What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?

A passport card allows a person to travel to another country by land or by sea. For example: if you are driving to Canada, Mexico, or going on a cruise. It does not allow a person to travel by air. A passport book allows a person to travel by air, land, and sea. If you are flying, you must have a passport book.

8. Is the Idaho Star Card like a passport?

The Idaho Star Card does not allow a person to travel internationally. It is only good for domestic flight. You cannot travel to Canada or Mexico with the Star Card.

9. Do I need to make copies of my documentation before I apply for my passport?

Bringing in your own front and back copies of documentation at the time of application will speed up the process. However, if you are unable to make copies, the acceptance agent can make copies for you in our office.

10. Do I have to submit my original birth certificate with my application?

Yes. Passport Services requires the original birth certificate or a certified copy of the certificate be submitted with the passport application. It must have a state seal as well as the applicant's parental information. Passport Services will mail the certificate back to the customer after his or her application is processed.

11. Are you open on the weekend?

The office is closed on weekends.

12. Why can't I leave my documentation with you if I need to run home and get something I forgot?

We are not allowed to hold on to your documentation because it has your personal information included within its contents.

13. How do I get a new certified copy of my birth certificate if I lost my original?

Certified copies of birth certificates are issued by the Vital Statistics in the state where you were born. View contact information for the Vital Statistics holding your birth certificate (PDF).

14. Do I need my birth certificate if I've had a passport before?

Applicants 16 years or older who have had a passport before do not need to submit a copy of their birth certificate with the application. The previous passport will be used as proof of citizenship in its place. Those applicants 15 years old and younger need to submit his or her old passport, as well as a photo copy of the birth certificate to show parental relationship.

15. Can I use a cashier's check to pay for my passport?

Yes. Passport services will accept cashier's checks, personal checks, or money orders for their fee.

16. Can I use glue to attach my picture to my application?

No. The picture is to be stapled as diagramed on the application. An acceptance agent will attach the photo for you when you apply for your passport.

17. How do I attach my old passport to my renewal form?

Open your passport to the page with your information and picture on it. Staple through your passport to the second page of your application, in the bottom right corner. Close the passport and secure it to the second page further with a paperclip. If you visit our office to have the renewal application reviewed before you send it off, an acceptance agent will attach the passport for you.

18. Is it the same fee for the passport even when I am doing a renewal?

The passport fee is the same whether you are renewing or a new applicant. However, because renewals are sent by the customer, these applicants do not have to pay the separate $35 processing fee.

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Snow Groomer

Show All Answers

1. When are the trail barricades installed and removed for the grooming season?

Barricades are installed on December 15th each year per a written agreement with the U.S. Forest Service. Barricades cannot be installed before December 15th. Barricades are installed at the Bunco Rd. parking area, Fernan Saddle, Fourth of July Pass parking area and Hayden Creek. Barricades are removed when grooming operations have ended for the season, which is determined by snow depth at the trailheads and must be no later than April 15th per the agreement.

2. What conditions are necessary to operate the snowgrooming machines?

Eight to ten inches of snow is necessary to prevent damage to the track systems, and twelve inches of snow is necessary to prevent damage to equipment implements, per manufacturer recommendations.  

3. How is the Snowgroomer program funded?

The Snowgroomer program is funded with a percentage of state snowmobile registration and the Kootenai County Groomer Sticker program. The program is not supported by Kootenai County tax dollars.  

4. Where can I park and unload my snowmobile?

- Bunco Road

- 4th of July Pass - Interstate 90

- LOWER Fernan Hill parking area, directly across from the Fernan Gun Range.  

5. Who plows Bunco Parking Lot and 4th of July Parking Lot?

The Forest Service owned parking lot at Bunco is plowed by Lakes Highway District as time and resources allow. The parking lot at 4th of July is owned and plowed by Idaho Transportation Department as time and resources allow. LOWER Fernan Hill parking area, directly across from the Fernan Gun Range, is intermittently plowed as time and resources allow. 

6. What services does the County Snowgroomer Department provide?

The Snowgroomer department provides groomed snowmobile trails, located in Kootenai County and parts of Shoshone County, in the Coeur d’Alene National Forest. The Snowgroomer program does not provide towing and recovery services, road maintenance, plowing, trash removal, or restroom maintenance at facilities owned by the Forest Service.

7. Is the Kootenai County Groomer sticker valid in Shoshone County?

Yes. If you purchase a Kootenai County groomer sticker, Shoshone County will honor it. Likewise, if you purchase a Shoshone County groomer sticker, Kootenai County will honor it.

8. Who determines which Snowmobile trails will be groomed?

The Snowgrooming program gathers input from the Forest Service, Kootenai County Sheriff Office, Kootenai County Snowmobile Advisory Board, Idaho State Parks and Recreation, the Coeur d’Alene Snowmobile Club, and other factors, to develop the Annual Travel Plan, which must be approved by the Forest Service.  

9. Where can I register my snowmobile?

Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation

Kootenai County Vehicle Licensing - Coeur d'Alene and Post Falls

10. Who do I contact?

Kootenai County Snowgroomer Department: (208) 446-1289

- Kootenai County Groomer Stickers

- Trail Maps

- Trail Grooming Operations

- Program Administration  

Kootenai County Sherriff Office: (208) 446-1300

- State and Local Rules and Laws 

- Enforcement 

- Reporting Accidents 

- Vehicles Blocking Groomed Snowmobile Trails

- Vandalism 

- Search and Rescue Activities

Idaho State Parks and Recreation: (208) 769-1511

- State Snowmobile Registration

- Avalanche Safety Training 

 

•Forest Service:  (208) 769-3000

Report issues with any of the following:

- Forest Service Roads

- Downed Trees

- Gates

- Restrooms

- Shelters/Warming huts

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Solid Waste

Show All Answers

1. Does the county pickup my garbage?

No. Kootenai County only provides transfer stations, landfill services and rural residential collection sites.  You must contact a private hauling company to pick up your garbage from your home or business.

2. When are the transfer stations open?

The transfer stations are open to the general public seven days a week. The entry gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 4:55 p.m. We request that everyone have their vehicles unloaded and out of the facilities by 5 p.m. daily.

3. What is a transfer station?

A transfer station is a facility where waste is separated and processed for either recycling or shipment to a landfill.

4. Where are the transfer stations located?

The Ramsey Transfer Station is located at:
3330 N Ramsey Road
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815

The closest cross streets are Appleway (to the south) and Kathleen Avenue (to the north). Watch for the signs in the center median on Ramsey Road.

The Prairie Transfer Station is located at:
15580 W Prairie Avenue
Post Falls, ID 83854

The closest intersection is N Pleasantview Road and Prairie Avenue. The public entrance to the transfer station is just east of the intersection.

5. Who picks up garbage in Kootenai County?

The following companies provide garbage collection services in Kootenai County.

• City of Worley (within city limits only) - 208-686-1258
• Coeur d'Alene Garbage/Post Falls Sanitation - 208-457-1820
• Harrison Sanitation - 208-689-3215
• Panhandle Waste Services - 208-818-2821
• Southlake Services - 208-686-9262
• Waste Management of Idaho - 208-765-4968

6. Is the landfill located on Ramsey Road?

No. The facility at Ramsey Road is an active transfer station but also a closed landfill (closed in 1993).   All garbage from our transfer stations is placed into trailers and hauled to the Fighting Creek Landfill, located on Highway 95, south of Coeur d'Alene.

7. How much will it cost to bring my garbage to the transfer station?

Residential property owners in Kootenai County pay an annual solid waste fee.  This allows residents to dispose of waste from a private household generated from day-to-day living.   

Transfer Stations Guidelines: The payment of the fee allows residents to dispose of up to 2,000 pounds of household waste and yard debris associated with their residential property for free per trip.

(Note: Loads weighing greater than 2,000 lbs are subject to charges.  All loads of roofing and tires on rims are charged to everyone).  Please refer to the Fee Structure Page for more details.

Rural Residential Sites Guidelines: These sites are not transfer stations and have limited disposal containers available; residential customers are allowed to dispose of up to 1 cubic yard of waste generated from their household from day-to-day living.  Large bulky items (such as furniture, appliances, etc), wood debris, tires, household hazardous waste, and loads larger than 1 cubic yard, must be taken to a transfer station.

8. Can I bring my garbage directly to the landfill?

No. The landfill is not designed to handle traffic from the general public. All garbage is unloaded from the transfer trailers directly into the active landfill refuse area. All landfill access is designed for heavy equipment and semi-trucks.

9. I cannot get a garbage service to come to my home and the transfer stations are too far. What are my options?

Kootenai County operates a rural collection system for general residential household garbage. There are 12 different locations throughout the county which have refuse containers for the use and convenience of our rural residents. For limitations on what is accepted at these rural sites, please refer to the Rural Collection page. The rural sites are NOT for disposal of any commercial waste.

10. What services do I get for the solid waste fee listed on my property tax billing?

The annual solid waste fee supports the operations of the entire department.  This includes the landfill, two full-service transfer stations, and 12 rural residential collection sites.

The intent of the residential solid waste fee is for normal household waste, created by day to day residential living. The fee is based on a residential lifestyle that creates normal waste not to exceed ninety-six (96) gallons per week per household.

The following are examples of waste not covered under the residential solid waste fee:

• Appliances
• Carpet
• Construction or Demolition Materials
• Furniture
• Household Hazardous Waste
• Large Bulky Items 
• Roofing 
• Vehicle Batteries
• Tires
• Wood or Wood Products

These wastes and others materials may be subject to additional charges.

11. When can I dispose of paint, gasoline and other household hazardous waste?

Both transfer stations have year-round Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection sites. The Ramsey Transfer Station in Coeur d'Alene has collection days on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  The Prairie Transfer Station in Post Falls has collection days on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Technician Assistance

Please wait for a technician to assist you at the HHW collection area. Do not leave your materials outside the gates. No hazardous waste can be collected at any other time besides the designated collection dates and times. This service is for residential customers only; NO commercial hazardous waste is allowed.  There is a 10 gallon limit per collection day per collection site.  If you would like more information on this program, please refer to the Household Hazardous Waste section.

12. Why don't you recycle any other items?

Certainly there are more materials capable of being recycled than what is collected through the Kootenai County recycling programs. However, the key to successful programs is locating markets first, and then establishing collections.

Mandate Recycling

Idaho, unlike Washington or Oregon, does not mandate recycling. States with mandated requirements of waste reduction and recycling have attracted both large and small processors and end users to their areas. These companies are assured a flow of materials due to the state mandates and taxpayer subsidies. Idaho does not have any such mandates or industries at this time. We ship our materials to distant markets and are therefore subject to the high costs of shipping.

13. How can I dispose of asbestos?

The disposal of Asbestos is governed by the EPA. There are specific requirements that must be met before the disposal of Asbestos can take place. There are specific forms that must accompany each and every load that is brought for disposal. Please see the Asbestos Policy and Procedures (PDF) for further details.

14. Can we take a tour of the facilities?

The Solid Waste Department provides guided tours of the landfill and transfer station facilities. Please contact the administration office at 208-446-1430 to make arrangements for tours.

15. What do I need if I am demolishing a building?

If the building is greater than 400 square fee, a report from an asbestos remediation company verifying that there is no asbestos in the waste must be obtained. Verification paperwork is available from any scale house, the administration office and can be printed here.  If the proper asbestos-free paperwork can not be obtained, the waste will be deemed asbestos contaminated and must follow all proper disposal protocol, found here.  

16. How do I dispose of a dead animal?

You may dispose of animals weighing less than 100 pounds at either of the transfer stations.   Notify the scale house operator when you enter the facility and they can make arrangements for proper disposal.

Disposing of animals greater than 100 pounds involves making arrangements with the landfill staff at least 24 hours in advance.  The transported animal must first travel to a transfer station to be weighed and have fees collected, then transported to the landfill for disposal.  See the Fee Resolution for pricing options.

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Treasurer

Show All Answers

1. When are personal property or manufactured housing taxes due?

All taxes shown on personal property and manufactured housing are due and payable on demand. If no demand is made, the taxes may be paid in two equal halves. The first half is due and payable on or before December 20th, and the second half is due and payable on or before June 20th of the following year. If the first half is not paid on or before December 20th, that half becomes delinquent and the entire tax becomes due and payable. A Warrant of Distraint will be issued to the County Sheriff for collection. Full payment of all tax, late charge, warrant fees and interest is required to release the warrant. See Idaho Code 63-904 (2) and 63-1013

2. When are property taxes due?

Property taxes are due each year on or before December 20th. If you choose to pay in two installments, the first half is due on or before December 20th with the second half due on or before June 20th of the following year. Subsequent billings may also be mailed in the event of a correction or late addition to the tax roll. If a structure is completed midyear or a personal property declaration is not received when due, a subsequent billing may result. See Idaho Code 63-903

3. How and where do I pay my taxes?

Pay by Mail:

Make sure your envelope is postmarked on or before the due date. If mailing close to the deadline, we strongly suggest that you have your envelope postmarked at the postal counter rather than dropping it in the box, to be sure it is properly dated. Only payments with a USPS postmark on or before the due date will be accepted as on time. Please send the bill stub with your payment to help us process your taxes efficiently.

Pay in Person:

At the Treasurer's Office, 451 N Government Way, Coeur D Alene, Idaho. The office hours are 9:00-5:00, Monday-Friday, excluding holidays. We accept checks, cashier's Checks, money orders and cash. There is also a drop box located outside our office door.

Pay by Internet or Phone:

A convenience fee of up to 3% of the total payment will be charged.

Credit Card Payment Options:

   Pay On-line by credit card or e-check: www.kcgov.us

   Pay by Phone using a credit card: Call 1-208-446-1005 and select option #3 from the phone directory. You will be asked to enter Jurisdiction code 2213 when paying by phone.

You will need to provide the bill number, amount being paid and the tax year you would like to pay.

If you are paying on a delinquent account, please call our office for the correct total at (208) 446-1005.

Credit card payment services are provided by a private vendor, and all fees associated with the transaction are paid by the tax payer. You will receive a confirmation number indicating that your transaction is complete.

4. Will I be sent any other notices?

 A second half reminder notice will be mailed in May. Warrant of Distraint notices are mailed in May and August on Personal Property and mobile homes with delinquent balances. Failure to receive a bill does not excuse the taxpayer from paying taxes, late charge and interest accrued, if any. See Idaho Code 63-902

5. What is the late charge and interest rate?

Late charge is 2% of the unpaid balance and is applied on December 21st. Interest is accrued beginning January 1 and the rate as directed by State Code is 1% per month. If the full tax is not paid by June 20th, interest on the unpaid tax will accrue from January 1st. If less than half the tax is received by December 20 interest will be applied to the unpaid balance beginning January 1st. See Idaho Code 63-201 (12) and 63-1001

6. Can I use my Online Banking or Bill Payment services to pay my property taxes?

The Tax Collector recommends that you do NOT use these services to pay property taxes. If you choose to use this method of payment make sure to schedule your payment date 10 business days in advance. The reason is the  Internal Revenue Code 7502 states that the Tax Collector must process a payment, received after the delinquency date, as of the date of the United States Postal Services (USPS) postmark. Banking institutions use permit imprint presorted envelopes, which USPS does not post mark. In The absence of a postmark, we apply penalties based on the date we receive payment.  See Idaho Code 63-217

7. Can I pay multiple tax accounts with one check, or use multiple checks for one account?

Multiple accounts may be paid with one check. Also, multiple checks may be used to pay for one account, but the check amount(s) must equal the amount due and be sent together in one envelope. You may also send partial payments from multiple payees. Please include your payment stub when submitting your payment.

8. Are property taxes prorated during escrow?

The prorating of property taxes between buyer and seller usually takes place during escrow. However, escrow may not always issue a payment to the Treasurer and Tax Collector, especially if escrow closes before the annual tax information is available, or before the second installment is due.

You should always check the status of your taxes before the delinquency dates, December 20th and June 20th.

It is important to note that the Annual Secured Property Tax Bill is mailed to the address recorded on the warranty deed. You should check the address listed on the top left corner of your warranty deed to confirm where your bill will be mailed.

9. When will my property go to tax sale?

When a property is delinquent three (3) years, it enters into the "Tax Deed" process. Typically, in May of each year, Kootenai County Tax Collector identifies all real properties that are three (3) years delinquent and generates a "Pending Issue of Tax Deed" letter to the recorded owner of those properties. This is their notice to either satisfy the most delinquent year (s) to bring the property to a minimum of two (2) years delinquent or have the property tax deeded to Kootenai County's name. The tax payer must pay the third-year delinquency in full to stop the Tax Deed Process. Partial payments will be accepted and applied at any time but will not stop the Tax Deed action until the third year delinquency is paid in full. See Idaho Code 63-1003 and 63-1005

10. How do I challenge the amount of my tax if it seems too high?

You may challenge the taxable value of your property only during the month you receive your assessment notice. Assessment notices are mailed on or before the 1st Monday in June of each year and the appeal must be received by the Commissioner's Office by the 4th Monday of June. If you did not appeal the current year value in June, you must wait until the next year to appeal the assessed value.

If you feel that the levy of a taxing district is too high or you wonder what the levy pays for, call the district directly. The phone number of all of the taxing districts within Kootenai County can be found on your tax bill or assessment notice. You can have input regarding the annual levy rate of a taxing district by participating in the annual budget hearing of the districts.

11. My mortgage company pays my taxes. Why did you send me a bill?

All property owners receive a bill whether or not a mortgage company pays the taxes. Please verify with your mortgage company before paying any taxes due. If the payment is not received prior to the due date, late charges and interest will be added.

12. Can I make payments or get a head start on future years taxes?

Partial payments toward real property delinquent taxes are accepted (any amount, any time) and are applied to taxes, and any costs, interest and late charges that may have been assessed proportionally.

Partial payments can be applied toward current year or future taxes on all property types. Any remaining balance may be paid according to the standard schedules and regulations for property tax collection.

Once any part of a personal property or manufactured home tax becomes delinquent, the unpaid portion of the entire tax shall immediately become due and payable.

13. How can I get help with my taxes?

Property tax relief is available through the Homeowner's exemption, State Circuit Breaker exemption, Hardship program, Property Tax Deferral Program  and 100% Service connected Disabled Veterans Benefits. All programs are applied for in the Assessor's Office please contact their office for details.

14. I received two bills but only have one property. Why?

There are a few reasons you may receive a second bill for your parcel.

1. If you built or bought a newly constructed home that was completed midyear, you may receive a subsequent occupancy bill. This bill will be in addition to the real property (land) bill already sent in November. This occupancy bill will be for the improvements made to the real property, (i.e the home). These subsequent bills are late additions to the tax roll. If you have a lender you will need to verify with them who is going to pay this bill. A Copy was not sent to them. These subsequent billings will notify you of their due dates.

2. If you own a business and own personal property with value over $100,000, you will receive a bill for Personal Property or Transient Property Tax. These bills will notify you of their due dates.

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Vehicle Licensing

Show All Answers

1. My tags expired and I can’t get in right away what can I do?

Please renew your tags online using ITD’s Vehicle Registration Renewal service available by clicking here. This online service makes renewing your vehicle registration simple, safe and convenient. If you need to change your address you must submit this form  and have it processed by ITD prior to renewing your vehicle registration.

2. How can I see if my tabs have been renewed, I sent it off in the mail?

Please utilize the registration status checker made available through ITD’s Online Services.

3. I have an appointment because I just bought a car, what do I need?

In general, you will need:

• The Title
• Bill of Sale
• The vehicle 

If the vehicle has an out of state title please bring the vehicle with you so that we can do a vin inspection. Vin inspections can also be performed by a member of law enforcement.

4. I’ve made an appointment for Vehicle Licensing but don’t remember what date?

A confirmation text and email containing detailed information about your appointment will have been sent to you when you made the appointment. Please check your records for this communication.

5. I’m trying to renew my off highway atv/utv stickers, snowmobile registration, and/or boat registration where do I go?

All off-highway stickers and snowmobile and boat registrations are given through Idaho Parks and Recreation. You may be able to renew online, click here to visit their website.

6. I’m moving here from out of state, what do I need to register my car?

You will need to bring the title, all current owner ID’s, and the vehicle with you for a VIN inspection. 

If you have a loan on your vehicle and do not have the title, you must bring:

• Current owner(s) ID’s
• Social Security numbers
• Copy of your registration
• Vehicle Loan Account number
• Fax number for the Titles Department of your Lien Holder.

7. My tags are expired what can I do if I can’t get in and renew, will I get a ticket?

Law enforcement is aware of current service limitations. Idaho Transportation Department has put out an Extension Notification thru January 31, 2021, regarding expired credentials. All official ITD notifications of extensions are available by clicking here. It is recommended that you carry a copy of the extension notification during this time.

8. I don’t have the app, how can I make an appointment?

You can also use a regular PC or Mac to go to the Vehicle Licensing webpage (bottom of page) and make an appointment that way. Please make sure to write down your appointment time.

9. I just bought a car from a private party, how can I get registration to be legal to drive it?

If you put a copy of the bill of sale/title in the back window this suffices as a temporary registration until you can get into the a vehicle licensing office to transfer the title and get registration. This rule is normally in place for a 72 hr period, but has been extended, like with all other expiring credentials, through the end of January per this ITD Extension Notice. It is recommended that you carry your paperwork and a copy of the ITD extension notice with you in case you do get stopped.

10. I bought a car from a dealer and the temporary is about to expire?

Law enforcement is not ticketing folks for expired credentials through the end of January based on this ITD Extension Notification. It is recommended that you carry a copy of this extension and your paperwork with you in case you do get stopped.

11. Are there any other locations we can visit to get taken care of?

All Idaho vehicle licensing locations and their status are can be found on the ITD DMV Locations page. If deciding to go to another vehicle licensing location, please try and call ahead to make sure they are able to see you as they are also very busy with their counties customers..

12. I can’t make an appointment, how can I get help?

The appointments only go out for 45 days for both CDA and Post Falls vehicle licensing offices. The earlier you can log on and try to set an appointment the better as the next day’s available appointments open up at 12am. Appointments are made with the Qless app downloaded from Qless.com or through the county vehicle licensing website only.

13. Where do I go to register and title my vehicle in Idaho?

You can register vehicles in Kootenai County at either:

Coeur d’Alene Department of Motor Vehicles
451 Government Way
Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

Post Falls Motor Vehicles Office
120 E Railroad Avenue
Post Falls, ID 83854

Generally, service hours are 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

14. What are the office hours for motor vehicle licensing?

Both motor vehicle licensing locations provide vehicle registration and titling service between 8:30am-4:30pm Monday thru Friday, except Holidays or special occasions (ITD system events, staff training, etc...). The QLESS system will automatically not accept appointments once all daily appointment slots have been filled. Title work can be time consuming and must be initiated prior to 4:30pm due to budget constraints on staff overtime past 5:00pm. Please plan accordingly so that we can effectively provide you with the service you need.

15. What vehicles must be registered and titled in Idaho?

Generally, any vehicle operated on public highways must be registered and titled. Also, various boats and watercraft are required to be titled. Any motorized boat used on Idaho waterways must be registered. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles if you need to title or register

Title 

• Ambulances
• Any trailers over 2,000 pounds
• ATVs (all terrain vehicles)
• Boats/watercraft
• Buses
• Motor homes
• Motorcycles/motorbikes
• Passenger cars and pickups
• Snowmobiles
• Taxis
• Travel trailers
• Trucks (non-commercial and commercial)
• Wreckers

Mobile homes and manufactured homes (usually need a pre-paid tax receipt from the Treasurer's Office)

Registrations  

All of the above, plus: 

• Boat trailers
• Commercial trailers
• Off-highway stickers
• Pickup mounted campers
• Rental trailers
• Snowmobile groomers
• Temporary handicap placards
• Utility trailers

  For more information, visit our Vehicle Licensing Page.

16. When must I register and title my vehicle in Idaho?

You must register and title your vehicle when you become a resident of Idaho. For the purposes of vehicle registration and titling, you become a resident of Idaho when you have had your principal home within Idaho for 90 days (this does not include your workplace, vacation home, or part-time residence). However, you may declare residency at any time earlier than that and register and title your vehicle at that time. To declare residency, go to the Department of Motor Vehicles of the Kootenai County Assessor's Office, state that you are an Idaho resident, and provide your address. For more information, contact either the
Coeur d'Alene or Post Falls Vehicle Licensing Office.

17. What should I bring when registering for my vehicle registration and title?

• Bring the vehicle you want to title and register.
  You will need to have the vehicle identification number (VIN) inspected. This inspection can generally be performed by a deputy of either the Department of Motor Vehicles (Assessor's Office) or by a law enforcement agency. All Idaho dealers or law enforcement agencies can do Vehicle Identification Number inspections.
• Bring the vehicle's current title and registration.
  If the vehicle has not been titled in your name, be sure the title has been signed over to you by the seller and that you have a bill of sale from the seller. If a lien holder holds the title, bring the lien holder's name and address. If your title has been lost, you will need to apply for a duplicate title from the state of issuance.
• Bring your personal identification.
  This could be a driver's license, identification card, etc.
• Bring cash or a check associated with a local bank for payment of the applicable taxes and fees.
• Late Filing Penalty
  A $20 late filing penalty can be charged if you do not have a title in your name and you have been living in Idaho for 120 days. The late filing penalty applies to any Idaho resident who does not apply for title within 30 days of the purchase of either a titled vehicle or a titled vessel.
• County Fees
  For other fees Kootenai County may charge, contact the Department of Motor Vehicles.

For more information, contact the either the Coeur d'Alene or Post Falls Vehicle Licensing Office.

18. Can appointments be made at either motor vehicle office?

Yes! Utilize a smart phone, computer, or digital device to download the QLESS app which will allow you to not only make an appointment for another day, but will also allow you to see how busy each location is so that you can choose which location works best for you.

19. What if I am still making payments on my out of state vehicle?

You will need to make an appointment, or get in line through the QLESS app, so that a Lien Request Letter (only available in the motor vehicle offices) can be filled out for you to submit to your lien holder. Your lien hold must then send the original title to that motor vehicle license office location. This step can take 6-8 weeks depending on your financial institution. You must bring all of the following items for our office:

• Fax # of the lienholder’s Title Department.
• Your account # with the lienholder.
• The old registration.
• A photocopy/picture of ALL Driver’s Licenses.
• Social Security card or verification.

20. Why are the wait times so long?

We make every effort to serve you in a timely manner; however, there are particular times of the year that are significantly busy due to customers choosing to renew all the registrations of their various vehicles (boats, off highway vehicles and recreational vehicles require annual renewal) at once. Renewal notices are generally sent and received by customers 6 weeks in advance of expiration. All registrations can be renewed online or through the mail which will keep you from having to wait in line for everyone ahead of you.

21. Do you do Driver's License?

No. In Idaho the Motor Vehicle and Drivers License offices are separate operations. The County Assessor's Office operates the Motor Vehicle Division, and the County Sheriff is in charge of the Drivers License Division. These offices are located next to each other for your convenience, but they cannot perform the others job. Please pay close attention to your selection when utilizing QLESS so that you make your appointment or "join the line" for the wrong office or location.

22. Where can I get more information about vehicle titling and licensing?

Contact any of the Kootenai County Assessor’s Office Department of Motor Vehicles:

Coeur d’Alene Office

451 Government Way
P. O. Box 9000
Coeur d’Alene ID 83816-9000
Phone: 208-446-1580

Post Falls Office

120 E Railroad Avenue
Post Falls. ID 83854
Phone: 208-446-1590

The Idaho Transportation Department
Division of Motor Vehicles -  ITD DMV Website

3311 State Street
P. O. Box 7129
Boise ID 83707-1129
Phone: 208-334-8000