Idaho Dog Poop Laws by County: A Practical Guide for Pet Owners
Living in Idaho with a dog comes with big perks—wide open spaces, fresh air, and dog-friendly trails. But owning a dog also comes with legal and social responsibilities, including picking up after them. While Idaho doesn’t have a statewide dog poop law, many counties and cities have their own ordinances that you need to follow.
This article breaks down Idaho dog poop laws by county, helping you avoid fines and be a respectful neighbor. Whether you’re walking your pup in Boise, Coeur d’Alene, or a small town, this guide has you covered.
Does Idaho Have a Statewide Dog Poop Law?
No, Idaho does not have a statewide law that specifically addresses dog poop. Instead, local governments—counties and cities—enforce rules around pet waste through health codes, animal control ordinances, or nuisance laws.
In almost every populated area, you’re expected to clean up after your dog on public and private property. If you don’t, you could be fined, especially in parks, on sidewalks, and in neighborhoods with homeowner associations.
Dog Poop Laws in Major Idaho Counties
Ada County (Boise)
Ada County, including the city of Boise, enforces dog poop cleanup through its municipal code. Boise City Code 6-02-06 requires pet owners to immediately clean up dog waste on any public or private property not their own. Failure to do so can result in a fine, often starting at $50 and increasing with additional violations.
- Dog waste stations are available in most city parks
- Bag dispensers are installed on the Boise River Greenbelt
- HOAs may have stricter policies with separate fines
If you want to make sure your dog is getting care based on its life stage, try this dog age calculator for helpful insights.
Canyon County (Nampa, Caldwell)
Canyon County relies on city ordinances to manage pet waste rules. For example, in Nampa and Caldwell, dog owners must pick up after their pets immediately. These ordinances are part of broader nuisance and animal control laws, with fines typically around $50–$100 for first offenses.
In city parks, there are signs posted reminding dog owners to bring waste bags and use disposal bins.
Kootenai County (Coeur d’Alene)
Coeur d’Alene enforces pet sanitation through its municipal code. Dog owners are required to clean up dog feces in all public spaces, including sidewalks, parks, and trails. Failure to comply can result in a citation starting at $75.
The McEuen Park and Tubbs Hill areas have signs, waste bag dispensers, and trash bins to encourage good behavior from pet owners.
Want to keep your senior dog feeling young? Find your dog’s real age here and get tailored care advice instantly.
Bonneville County (Idaho Falls)
Dog waste laws in Idaho Falls are part of the city’s public health and nuisance codes. Dog owners must clean up after their pets on public property, and failure to do so may lead to citations and potential community service.
The city encourages pet waste removal through signs in parks and a community awareness campaign led by local animal control officers.
Bannock County (Pocatello)
Pocatello enforces a strict “pooper scooper” ordinance. Pet owners are legally required to clean up dog feces from any area that isn’t their private property. The local ordinance also encourages owners to carry cleanup bags on walks.
First-time fines range from $50 to $100, but repeated violations could lead to larger fines or appearances in municipal court.
What About Rural Areas?
In rural Idaho counties, dog poop laws are less strictly enforced—but that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Responsible pet ownership is still expected, especially in:
- Shared trails or natural areas
- Campgrounds or RV parks
- Rural subdivisions with common property
Many rural HOAs have their own bylaws requiring dog waste cleanup, even if county laws are more relaxed. It’s always a good idea to clean up after your dog, even when no one’s watching.
County-by-County Summary Table
| County | Dog Poop Law | Fines | Primary Enforcement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | Yes – Required in all public/private areas | $50–$200 | City of Boise Animal Control |
| Canyon | Yes – Covered by city codes (Nampa, Caldwell) | $50+ | Local Police or Animal Control |
| Kootenai | Yes – Strictly enforced in public spaces | $75+ | City of Coeur d’Alene Code Enforcement |
| Bonneville | Yes – City sanitation laws apply | $50+ | Idaho Falls Police / Animal Services |
| Bannock | Yes – Ordinance requires immediate cleanup | $50–$100+ | Pocatello Code Enforcement |
How Are These Laws Enforced?
Enforcement depends on where you live. In larger cities, animal control officers or police may issue tickets. In neighborhoods or HOAs, violations might be handled internally with warnings or fines added to association fees.
Common enforcement methods include:
- Reports from residents or neighbors
- Park rangers or staff in recreational areas
- Community surveillance in HOA neighborhoods
Most cities provide anonymous complaint systems online or by phone to report repeat offenders.
Tips for Staying Compliant and Courteous
Here are a few simple ways to avoid legal trouble and keep your community clean:
- Always carry doggy waste bags—stash extras in your car or leash pouch
- Use public disposal bins when walking in parks or downtown
- Clean up immediately—don’t leave poop to “come back to later”
- Teach your family or dog walkers to follow the same rules
Not sure if your dog is slowing down because of age? Use this dog age calculator to better understand their needs.
Exceptions to the Rule
Very few exceptions exist. In rare cases, individuals with disabilities may not be able to physically clean up after their service dogs. Even then, most owners make accommodations to comply with local ordinances. When in doubt, cleaning up is always the right thing to do.
Also, remember that even if there’s no posted sign, most public and private spaces still expect you to clean up after your dog.
Conclusion
Dog poop laws in Idaho vary by county and city, but the expectation remains the same: pick up after your dog. It keeps the community clean, prevents disease, and reflects well on responsible pet owners like you. From Boise to Coeur d’Alene and everywhere in between, being prepared with a poop bag can save you from fines and dirty looks.
Want to provide your dog with the best care possible? Find out your dog’s true age and get tips to match their stage in life. Responsible ownership starts with knowledge—and a little courtesy goes a long way.