Areas of Impact
Kootenai County Areas of Impact
As of July 1, 2024, the Idaho State Legislature passed Senate Bill 1403, a change that affects how cities and counties plan for growth and manage “areas of impact.”
This legislation revised Idaho Code §67-6526 to:
- Clarify the authority of County Boards of Commissioners in establishing and amending AOI boundaries;
- Require regular review of AOI agreements, at least once every five years; and
- Promote greater predictability, coordination, and consistency in land-use planning between cities and counties.
The intent of the amendment is to reduce jurisdictional conflicts and ensure that future growth is planned in appropriate and logical locations.
Kootenai County currently has adopted effective AOI maps with the following cities:
- City of Coeur d’Alene
- City of Hayden
- City of Post Falls
- City of Rathdrum
Updated maps and ordinances are available HERE. These AOI agreements remain in full force and effect unless and until they are amended or replaced through the formal public process required by state law.
Updated 1/5/26
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Area of Impact (AOI)?
An Area of Impact is a boundary outside a city’s limits where the city and county anticipate future growth, services, and potential annexation. It identifies where planning interests overlap and requires coordinated land-use decisions between the two jurisdictions.
Why are AOIs being renegotiated now?
AOI agreements must be updated when:
• Growth patterns shift
• Infrastructure expands
• Annexations occur
• Community needs evolve
• State law or local policies change Many existing AOIs were established years ago and no longer reflect current conditions.ns.
Is renegotiating AOIs required by law?
Yes. Idaho Code § 67-6526(6) requires cities and counties to review and re-establish their Areas of Impact by December 31, 2025.
Why are AOIs required?
AOIs are required under Idaho law to promote orderly growth, reduce conflicts between jurisdictions, and coordinate future services and infrastructure.
Who decides what the new AOI looks like?
AOIs are negotiated between each city and the county. Cities may provide input, and they receive notice of applications within the AOI; however, the Board of County Commissioners makes the final determination on the Areas of Impact. State law requires the County to send written notice to all property owners within a proposed AOI prior to a public hearing on establishing or amending an AOI.
What does an AOI actually control?
An AOI determines which jurisdiction’s planning documents and regulations apply. Under Idaho law:
• Unless a separate AOI-specific plan and ordinance are adopted, the County’s comprehensive plan, zoning code, and subdivision regulations apply within an AOI.
An AOI does not annex land or change property taxes.
Does being in an AOI mean I will be annexed into the city?
No. An AOI does not annex property. Annexation is a separate process that requires additional steps and, in almost all cases, landowner consent.
Will my taxes change if I am in an AOI?
No. Property taxes remain the same unless you are formally annexed into a city. Being inside an AOI does not change tax districts or mill levies.
Will my zoning or land-use rules change?
No. Being in an AOI does not change your zoning. County zoning continues to apply unless a city annexes the property and rezones it through its own process.
How does an AOI impact development on my property?
It provides clarity and predictability. Property owners and developers are assured that County regulations apply to development on land located in the unincorporated area. Renegotiated AOIs help remove ambiguity regarding whether County or city regulations govern development near city boundaries.
How can the public participate?
Public involvement occurs through:
• Online updates and posted draft materials
• City Council and County Commissioner public hearings
• Written comments and verbal testimony
Community participation is a key part of the process.
What happens if a city and the county cannot agree?
Idaho Code outlines steps for resolving disagreements, which may include:
• Continued negotiation
• Mediation or fact-finding
• A final decision by the Board of County Commissioners
The objective is to reach a coordinated, reasonable, and legally defensible outcome.
How long does an AOI last?
AOIs remain in place until changed. However, they can be reconsidered at any time, and state law requires cities and counties to review Areas of Impact at least every five years.
Can landowners opt out of an AOI?
AOIs are adopted between cities and the County. Landowner input is considered during the public process.
Can a city regulate my property just because it is in an AOI?
No. The County retains land-use authority until annexation occurs. AOIs are coordination tools, not regulatory takeovers.
What services are affected by AOIs?
AOIs help plan for future services (roads, utilities, emergency services), but do not immediately change who provides services today.
Will development standards change inside an AOI?
Not automatically. County standards apply until annexation. Some coordination with cities may occur during review to reduce future conflicts.
Where can I see maps and submit comments?
AOI maps, documents and hearing information are posted on the County website HERE. Written comments may be submitted prior to scheduled hearings.