Bill > H0596

This bill amends existing Idaho law regarding the annexation of property by cities, primarily focusing on the requirements and costs associated with such annexations. Key changes include clarifying the definition of "implied consent" for annexation, which now applies to properties connected to a city's water or wastewater system if the connection was requested before July 1, 2024, or completed before July 1, 2008. The bill also introduces a new provision stating that landowners whose property is annexed without their voluntary consent (meaning they did not provide the required 60% of parcels and 50% of area consent) will not be forced to use the city's water and wastewater services and will be allowed to maintain their existing systems, provided they comply with regulations; any other costs incurred by these landowners due to the annexation must be paid by the city. Additionally, the bill adjusts the numbering of certain exception subsections related to annexation procedures and clarifies that the new provisions apply to annexations occurring on or after July 1, 2024, while not invalidating prior consents or annexations. The bill also declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

Local Government Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0596/