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H 104

BUILDING CODE ACT – Amends existing law to provide a definition for agricultural buildings and that counties shall not alter the provisions of the section.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 104 standardizes agricultural building definitions in Idaho, exempting them from certain codes, simplifying regulations for farmers, and limiting local government restrictions.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 12, 2025 Session Law Chapter 40 Effective: 07/01/2025
#agriculture #buildings #cities #counties
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Bill Summary · H 104

Summary of House Bill 104: Building Code Act

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 104 aims to amend existing building code regulations in Idaho by providing a clear and unified definition for "agricultural buildings." The bill seeks to ensure that counties cannot alter the provisions related to these buildings, thereby standardizing the treatment of agricultural structures across local jurisdictions.

Key Provisions

  • Definition of Agricultural Buildings: The bill defines "agricultural buildings" to include:

    • Livestock shelters (e.g., shade structures, milking barns)
    • Poultry buildings
    • Barns
    • Storage structures for agricultural equipment and machinery
    • Horticultural structures (e.g., greenhouses)
    • Sheds, grain silos, stables, and other structures used for agricultural purposes.

  • Exemptions: Agricultural buildings are exempt from various building code requirements, including:

    • Automatic fire sprinkler system installations
    • Local amendments that could limit the size or safety requirements of these buildings.

  • Permit Regulations: Counties may issue permits for agricultural buildings to ensure compliance with road setbacks and utility easements, but the cost of such permits cannot exceed the actual cost incurred by the county.

  • Local Government Authority: Local governments are restricted from altering the exemptions provided for agricultural buildings, ensuring consistency across the state.

Impact

  • Who is Affected: This legislation primarily impacts farmers and agricultural businesses in Idaho by simplifying the regulatory landscape for agricultural buildings. It also affects local governments by limiting their authority to impose additional regulations on these structures.

  • Fiscal Impact: According to the fiscal note, the bill is not expected to incur additional costs for state or local governments, nor will it affect revenue.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • Introduced on January 31, 2025.
    • Passed the House on February 11, 2025, with a unanimous vote of 70-0.
    • Passed the Senate on March 6, 2025, also unanimously.
    • Signed by the Governor on March 12, 2025.
    • Effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 104 establishes a clear framework for the definition and regulation of agricultural buildings in Idaho, promoting consistency and reducing regulatory burdens for agricultural operations. By ensuring that counties cannot impose additional restrictions, the bill supports the agricultural sector's growth and operational efficiency.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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