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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Teton County
A building permit is required for all new construction, additions, alterations, demolitions, and structural changes within unincorporated Teton County.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory structures ≤120 sq ft
- Exempt Fences ≤6 feet in height
- Exempt Retaining walls ≤4 feet in height
- Exempt Sidewalks and driveways ≤30 inches above adjacent grade
- Completed Residential Building Permit Application
- Scaled and dimensional plot plan with lot boundaries
- Primary and replacement wastewater area (if applicable)
- Structure floor plans (8.5 x 11 or PDF preferred)
- Proof of zoning compliance
- Septic capacity form (if on-site wastewater)
- Building code
- 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) with Idaho amendments, including northern/mountainous region structural requirements for snow and earthquake loads.
- Permit validity
- Building permits expire 3 years from issuance. Extension application and fee required for renewal.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must be registered with Idaho DOPL for projects with contract value exceeding $2,000.
Application process
Typical processing: 2-4 weeks for residential permits.
- 01 Download the Residential Building Permit Application form and 1st Steps Residential Submittal Checklist from Teton County.
- 02 Prepare required documents: plot plan, floor plans, zoning compliance proof, and septic information (if applicable).
- 03 Submit completed application and documents in person at the County Courthouse (Room 107) or by mail.
- 04 County staff reviews completeness and routes for plan review.
- 05 Applicant pays plan review fees and permit fees upon notification.
- 06 Building permit is issued upon approval and fee payment.
- 07 Applicant schedules required inspections (foundation, framing, final) via portal or phone.
Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks for residential permits.
Fee schedule
Teton County building permit fees
Fees are estimates only; actual charges calculated upon complete application submission. Fee calculator available as downloadable Excel spreadsheet. Impact fees (not included in calculator) may apply separately.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 208-776-8171 (phone)
- Application Portal (online)
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Thursday 9:00 am–5:00 pm; Friday 9:00 am–12:00 pm
Typical sequence: Required inspections: Foundation inspection (after excavation, before concrete), Framing inspection (after framing, before drywall), Final inspection (upon project completion). Plumbing/Electrical/HVAC inspections through Idaho Division of Building Safety.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Teton County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Teton County, ID? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Teton County, ID? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Teton County, ID? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Teton County, ID? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Teton County, ID? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Teton County, ID? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Teton County Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.