Overview: Short-Term Rental Status in Soda Springs, ID

Short-term rentals ARE ALLOWED in Soda Springs, ID and throughout Caribou County. However, they are subject to strict county-level regulations under Caribou County Code 13.65. The county transitioned from a Conditional Use Permit system to an annual administrative permit system to better regulate and monitor STR operations while protecting public health, safety, and community welfare.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Soda Springs

Step 1: Understand the Legal Framework

Before proceeding, carefully review Caribou County Code 13.65 which governs short-term rentals in the county. This code was adopted to protect both property owners and surrounding landowners.

Step 2: Obtain Required Annual Permit

Submit an annual administrative application to the Planning and Zoning Administrator. Unlike the previous system that required Conditional Use Permits with newspaper publications and public hearings, the current process is more streamlined but still requires compliance verification.

Step 3: Submit Application

Applications can be submitted via:

• Email: naskew@co.caribou.id.us
• In Person: Caribou County Courthouse, 159 South Main Street, Room 105, Soda Springs, Idaho

Step 4: Neighbor Notification Process

Upon application submission, notice will be sent to all surrounding property owners within 300 feet of your STR property. This provides transparency and allows for community input on your proposed operation.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Permit

• Annual Short-Term Rental Permit ($100.00 application fee)

Required Documentation

1. Photographs of Safety Equipment:

   • Smoke detector locations
   • Carbon monoxide detector locations
   • Fire extinguishers with expiration dates visible

2. Site Plan: Layout of property including available parking for renters

3. Property Deed: Proof of ownership

4. Application Fee: $100.00

Safety Requirements On-Site

The following must be posted on-site throughout the permitted year:

• Rules and regulations
• Emergency contact numbers
• Emergency plans
• Current permits

Safety Equipment Requirements

• Smoke Detectors: Required with photographic documentation
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Required with photographic documentation
• Fire Extinguishers: Required with expiration date documentation

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Definition

A Short-Term Rental is defined as overnight lodging for 30 days or less (commonly known as AirBnB-style accommodations).

Application Requirements

• Annual Renewal: Permits must be renewed yearly within the timeframe specified in Caribou County Code 13.65.040
• No Grandfathering: Previously operating STRs cannot claim "grandfathered" status; all must apply for new permits
• Complete Disclosure: Property owners must maintain, update, and inform Caribou County Planning and Zoning of any changes to property or information provided in applications

Compliance and Enforcement

• Violation Consequences: Violations may result in suspension or revocation of STR approval and permit
• Truthful Certification: Property owners must certify that all answers are true and complete to the best of their knowledge
• Ongoing Compliance: Continuous compliance with all provisions outlined in Caribou County Code 13.65 is required

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contact: Planning & Zoning Department

• Contact Person: Nellie Askew, Planning and Zoning Administrator
• Phone: (208) 547-1780
• Email: naskew@co.caribou.id.us
• Alternative Contact: Helen Barker, P&Z Administrator
• Alternative Email: hbarker@co.caribou.id.us
• Address: Caribou County Courthouse, 159 South Main Street, Room 105, Soda Springs, ID 83276
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Building Department (Additional Support)

• Contact Person: Rowdy Larkins, Building Inspector
• Phone: (208) 840-9910
• Email: rlarkin@caribouid.gov
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:30 AM - 2:30 PM

County General Information

• Phone: (208) 547-4324
• Website: www.cariboucounty.us

Source Links

• Caribou County Short-Term Rental Application (PDF)
• Caribou County Planning & Zoning Department - Short-Term Rentals
• Caribou County Code 13.65 - Short-Term Rental

Important Note for Investors: Caribou County takes STR compliance seriously and has eliminated any grandfathering provisions. All operators, regardless of previous operation status, must obtain annual permits and maintain ongoing compliance with safety and operational requirements. The county's approach balances economic opportunities with community protection through the administrative permit system.