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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Clark County
Building permits are required for most new construction and substantial remodeling in unincorporated Clark County.
- Exempt Minor repairs and maintenance that do not alter the structure, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems
- Exempt Temporary structures (verify permit requirements with IDBS for structures with extended duration)
Note: Exemptions vary by project type and scope. Always verify exemption status with IDBS before beginning work. Some work may require permits even if not considered 'building permits' (e.g., electrical permits for any contractor work, septic permits through Eastern Idaho Public Health, stormwater permits for projects disturbing 1+ acres).
- Completed permit application
- Construction plans and specifications
- Site plan showing property lines and easements
- Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical plans for applicable work
- Proof of property ownership or authorization
- Project valuation estimate
- Building code
- 2018 International Building Code (IBC) with Idaho amendments (adopted statewide)
- Permit validity
- Contact IDBS for permit validity periods and expiration requirements.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders must comply with Idaho law and IDBS requirements. Verify specific exemptions with IDBS before proceeding.
- Contractor requirements
- For projects exceeding $2,000 in cost, contractors must be registered with the Idaho Contractors Board. Licensed contractors in specific trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) must hold valid state licenses issued by DOPL.
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by project complexity and permit type; contact IDBS for specific timelines.
- 01 Contact IDBS to determine permit requirements for your project type.
- 02 Prepare application materials and construction plans meeting 2018 IBC with Idaho amendments.
- 03 Submit application online through IDBS portal or in person to the Meridian office.
- 04 IDBS reviews application for completeness and initiates plan review process.
- 05 Pay applicable permit fees as invoiced.
- 06 Respond to any correction comments and resubmit revised documents if required.
- 07 Obtain permit approval and schedule required inspections before beginning work.
Typical processing time: Varies by project complexity and permit type; contact IDBS for specific timelines.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (208) 334-3950 (phone)
- IDBS Permits Portal (online)
- Scheduling deadline
- Contact IDBS for specific scheduling deadlines and inspection availability.
- Inspection hours
- Contact IDBS for current business hours.
- Time windows
- Contact IDBS for available inspection time windows.
Typical sequence: Required inspections depend on project type. Common inspections include footing, framing, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and final building inspections. Contact IDBS for project-specific sequence.
Contact IDBS to inquire about remote or virtual inspection options for eligible work.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Clark County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Clark County, ID? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Clark County, ID? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Clark County, ID? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Clark County, ID? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Clark County, ID? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Idaho Division of Building Safety (IDBS) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.