You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-03.
Twin Falls building permits
VerifiedTwin Falls, Idaho — as published 2026-07-03.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Codes adopted
Permit types & fees
Residential New Home Building Permit
VerifiedRequired for construction of new one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in Twin Falls. Reviewed against the 2018 IRC and 2018 IECC with Idaho amendments as locally administered by the City of Twin Falls Building Safety Department, plus City of Twin Falls residential Design Criteria (wind, snow, seismic, frost depth). Applications are submitted via the online CityWorks Building Permit Portal or in person/by email to the Building Safety Department.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for all new single-family structures; applicants should confirm property setbacks and easements before building
- Plans designed to the 2018 IRC and 2018 IECC with Idaho amendments, and to City of Twin Falls residential Design Criteria: 115 mph gust wind speed, Wind Exposure B (C in some areas), Seismic Design Category B, 24-inch frost depth, 15 psf ground snow load with 25 psf minimum uniform roof design load, 1,500 psf presumed soil bearing pressure
- Engineering (stamped by an Idaho-licensed engineer or architect) required for walls over 10 feet tall, structures over two stories, or any design not using prescriptive IRC methods
- Energy compliance required via prescriptive path or ResCheck
- Electronic PDF plan submittal preferred (saved directly from CAD, not scanned) to bsdpermits@tfid.org or the online CityWorks portal; paper plans (1 set, min 18x24 in, max 24x36 in) also accepted
- Separate MEP (mechanical/electrical/plumbing) permits required for all trade work
- Permit expires 180 days from issuance or the date of the last inspection
Required documents
- RequiredResidential New Home Permit ApplicationCity of Twin Falls application for new one- and two-family dwelling construction; apply online via the CityWorks Building Permit Portal (cityworks.tfid.org/permits) or submit to bsdpermits@tfid.org
- RequiredConstruction DrawingsSite plan, foundation/floor framing plan, floor plan, roof framing plan, and exterior elevations consistent with the 2018 IRC and City of Twin Falls residential Design Criteria
- RequiredEnergy Compliance DocumentationResCheck report or prescriptive-method documentation showing compliance with the 2018 IECC as adopted
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1 to $500 | $22.00 | Per application. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (Building Dept.), footnote Building #1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $501 to $2,000 | $22.00 for the first $500, plus $2.75 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $2,001 to $25,000 | $63.00 for the first $2,000, plus $12.50 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $25,001 to $50,000 | $352.00 for the first $25,000, plus $9.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $50,001 to $100,000 | $580.00 for the first $50,000, plus $6.25 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $100,001 to $500,000 | $895.00 for the first $100,000, plus $5.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $500,001 to $1,000,000 | $2,855.00 for the first $500,000, plus $4.25 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1,000,001 and up | $4,955.00 for the first $1,000,000, plus $2.75 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Residential Plan Review Fee | 30% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Re-inspection Fee | $50.00 | Charged only if an inspection has failed more than once for the same issue; City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
Residential Addition / Interior Remodel Permit
VerifiedRequired for additions (enclosed and not-enclosed), interior remodels, and alterations to existing one- and two-family dwellings in Twin Falls. Reviewed against the 2018 IRC with Idaho amendments as locally administered by the City of Twin Falls. Separate application forms exist for enclosed additions, non-enclosed additions (e.g., covered patios/porches), and interior remodels.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for additions and alterations to existing structures, including sunrooms and interior remodels affecting structural or life-safety elements
- Use the Residential Addition Enclosed application for enclosed additions, the Residential Addition Not-Enclosed application for uncovered/open additions, or the Residential Interior Remodel application for interior work
- Plans designed to the 2018 IRC and IECC with Idaho amendments and City of Twin Falls residential Design Criteria
- Building permit valuation includes total project value (materials, labor, overhead and profit) for all work including any roofing, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing scope covered by the same permit
- Engineering required for walls over 10 feet or non-prescriptive designs
- Separate MEP permits required for any mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work
Required documents
- OptionalResidential Addition Enclosed ApplicationFor enclosed additions to existing 1-2 family dwellings; submit via CityWorks portal or bsdpermits@tfid.org
- OptionalResidential Addition Not-Enclosed ApplicationFor uncovered/non-enclosed additions such as open decks or patios
- OptionalResidential Interior Remodel ApplicationFor interior remodels of existing 1-2 family dwellings
- RequiredConstruction DrawingsSite plan and framing/structural details showing scope of work and connection to the existing structure
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation-based (same schedule as new construction) | $22.00 minimum ($1-$500 valuation), scaling up per the Master City-Wide Fee Schedule building permit table (e.g., $63.00 for the first $2,000 plus $12.50 per additional $1,000 up to $25,000) | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Residential Plan Review Fee | 30% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Re-inspection Fee | $50.00 | Charged only after an inspection has failed more than once for the same issue; City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
Electrical Permit (MEP)
VerifiedRequired for electrical installation, alteration, or repair work in Twin Falls, governed by the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) per Idaho Rules and Amendments as locally administered and inspected by the City of Twin Falls Building Safety Department (not deferred to state DOPL). Applied for via the shared Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing (MEP) Permit Application.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical permit required for all electrical work; governed by the 2023 NEC per Idaho Rules and Amendments
- Apply using the shared MEP Permit Application, checking the Electrical (ELEC) box and the applicable category: New Residential, Other Residential, Small Residential, or Commercial
- New Residential (1-2 family dwellings): flat fee based on total floor area (main floor + upper floor(s) + basement, excluding garages/covered patios)
- Commercial project value (contract price, change orders, overhead, profit, owner-supplied equipment) must be declared and signed for on the application
- City of Twin Falls Electrical Inspection line: (208) 735-7235
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Electrical Plumbing (MEP) Permit ApplicationShared application for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trade permits; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or the CityWorks online permit portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 0-2,500 sq ft | $120.00 | Finished and unfinished area, excluding garages and covered patios; flat fee applies per trade (electrical, mechanical, plumbing each require a separate permit). City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application / Master City-Wide Fee Schedule footnote Building #3 |
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 2,501-4,000 sq ft | $155.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 4,001+ sq ft | $200.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Other Residential Installation (remodel/addition/retrofit, temporary service under 200 amps, spas/hot tubs/pools, space heaters, A/C, sewer/water line) | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Small Work Permit (job value $500 or less; residential water heaters to 100 gal, water softeners, single-unit appliances, backflow devices, bath fans, dryer ducts, duct extensions to 25 ft, power turn-on after 1 year) | $10.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial (3+ family dwellings and all commercial) — $500 or less | $10.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $501 to $10,000 | (project value x $0.02) + $60.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $10,001 to $100,000 | ((project value - $10,000) x $0.01) + $260.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $100,001 or more | ((project value - $100,000) x $0.005) + $1,160.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Other Commercial Installation (temporary construction electrical service under 200 amps, wiring for signs/outline lighting) | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application / Master City-Wide Fee Schedule footnote Building #4 |
Plumbing Permit (MEP)
VerifiedRequired for plumbing installation, alteration, or repair work in Twin Falls, governed by the 2017 Idaho State Plumbing Code as locally administered and inspected by the City of Twin Falls Building Safety Department. Applied for via the shared MEP Permit Application.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Plumbing permit required for installation, alteration, or repair of any plumbing system, fixture, water heater, gas piping, or sewer/water service line
- Governed by the 2017 Idaho State Plumbing Code as locally administered by the City of Twin Falls
- Apply using the shared MEP Permit Application, checking the Plumbing box and the applicable category
- City of Twin Falls Plumbing Inspection line: (208) 735-7299
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Electrical Plumbing (MEP) Permit ApplicationShared application for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trade permits; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or the CityWorks online permit portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 0-2,500 sq ft | $120.00 | Flat fee per trade, based on total floor area excluding garages/covered patios. City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 2,501-4,000 sq ft | $155.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 4,001+ sq ft | $200.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Other Residential Installation (remodel/addition/retrofit, sewer/water line installation or repair) | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Small Work Permit (job value $500 or less; residential water heaters to 100 gal, water softeners, backflow devices) | $10.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial (3+ family dwellings and all commercial) — $500 or less | $10.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $501 to $10,000 | (project value x $0.02) + $60.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $10,001 to $100,000 | ((project value - $10,000) x $0.01) + $260.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $100,001 or more | ((project value - $100,000) x $0.005) + $1,160.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit (MEP)
VerifiedRequired for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and related mechanical installations in Twin Falls, governed by the 2018 International Mechanical Code as adopted with the 2018 IRC/IBC (with Idaho amendments) and locally administered/inspected by the City of Twin Falls Building Safety Department. Applied for via the shared MEP Permit Application.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Mechanical permit required for HVAC installation, replacement, or alteration, including furnaces, air handling units, and ductwork
- Apply using the shared MEP Permit Application, checking the Mechanical box and the applicable category
- Hood/HVAC systems requiring plan review: hood equipment must be listed and labeled from the hood manufacturer or engineered
- City of Twin Falls Mechanical Inspection line: (208) 735-7289
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Electrical Plumbing (MEP) Permit ApplicationShared application for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trade permits; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or the CityWorks online permit portal
- OptionalHVAC Plan Review SubmittalRequired for commercial HVAC/hood systems needing plan review
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 0-2,500 sq ft | $120.00 | Flat fee per trade, based on total floor area excluding garages/covered patios. City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 2,501-4,000 sq ft | $155.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| New Residential (1-2 family dwelling) — 4,001+ sq ft | $200.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Other Residential Installation (HVAC remodel/retrofit, temporary electrical under 200 amps for equipment, A/C) | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial (3+ family dwellings and all commercial) — $500 or less | $10.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $501 to $10,000 | (project value x $0.02) + $60.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $10,001 to $100,000 | ((project value - $10,000) x $0.01) + $260.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial — $100,001 or more | ((project value - $100,000) x $0.005) + $1,160.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
Re-Roofing Permit
VerifiedRequired for residential and commercial re-roofing in Twin Falls; the City's Permit Requirements page explicitly lists 'new roofs' among alterations requiring a permit. There is no dedicated roofing application or fee line — re-roofing is permitted and fee-assessed under the general valuation-based Building Permit (Residential Interior Remodel or Commercial Remodel application, per project scope), since the Master City-Wide Fee Schedule's building-valuation definition explicitly includes 'roofing' as part of declared project value.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for new roofs and re-roofing (per City of Twin Falls Permit Requirements page, work requiring permits includes 'most alterations, including new roofs')
- Apply using the Residential Interior Remodel application (residential re-roof) or the Commercial Remodel/TI/CO/Other application (commercial re-roof)
- Declared project value must include the full value of the roofing work (materials and labor) per the Master City-Wide Fee Schedule's building-valuation definition (footnote Building #1)
- Plans/scope designed to the 2018 IRC (residential) or 2018 IBC (commercial) with Idaho amendments and City of Twin Falls Design Criteria: minimum uniform roof design load 25 psf (both residential and commercial)
- If in the historical preservation district, applicant must appear before the Historic Preservation Commission before a permit can be issued (contact Planning & Zoning at (208) 735-7267)
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Interior Remodel Application (used for residential re-roof) or Commercial Remodel/TI/CO/Other Application (commercial re-roof)City of Twin Falls building permit application appropriate to the property type; submit via CityWorks portal or bsdpermits@tfid.org
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1 to $500 | $22.00 | Roofing value is included in declared project value per Master City-Wide Fee Schedule footnote Building #1. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $501 to $2,000 | $22.00 for the first $500, plus $2.75 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $2,001 to $25,000 | $63.00 for the first $2,000, plus $12.50 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule; typical for most single-family re-roofs |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $25,001 to $50,000 | $352.00 for the first $25,000, plus $9.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Residential Plan Review Fee | 30% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Commercial Plan Review Fee | 65% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems in Twin Falls. The City publishes a dedicated Solar Installation Permitting Instructions guide with a fast-tracked 'Expedited' pathway for qualifying small systems, plus a standard pathway for larger/non-qualifying installations. Applied for via the MEP Permit Application (Residential Solar Install or Commercial Solar Installation category).
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Expedited Permit Process (qualifying small systems): inverter rated output 13.44 kW or less; engineered mounting system on a code-compliant roof with rooftop distributed weight under 5 lbs/sq ft and under 40 lbs per attachment; only listed PV/inverter components used; roof pitch greater than 2/12; completed Expedited Permit Form (SolarABCs, Steps 1 & 2) plus a site plan showing equipment location and measurements to ridge/edges submitted through the online CityWorks portal; no in-office plan review (a short on-site review occurs instead); plans must be onsite for all inspections; ballasted systems are NOT eligible for the expedited process
- Large/Non-Expedited installations: full site plans showing roof location, roof access, loads, and connection details (commercial buildings must also demonstrate International Fire Code compliance); manufacturer installation instructions; if roof load exceeds 5 lbs/sq ft, engineering/installation instructions showing the roof will support the load (a separate building permit is needed if roof structural changes are required); electrical plans
- Apply via the MEP Permit Application, checking Residential Solar Install/Hood Systems/Sump or Commercial Solar Installation/Hood Systems/Grease Trap or Sump
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Electrical Plumbing (MEP) Permit ApplicationChecked for Residential Solar Install or Commercial Solar Installation category; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or CityWorks portal
- OptionalExpedited Permit Form (SolarABCs)Steps 1 & 2 completed, required for the Expedited Permit Process only
- RequiredSite PlanLocation of all equipment including measurements to ridge and roof edges
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Solar Install (Other Residential Installation category) | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial Solar Installation — $500 or less | $10.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial Solar Installation — $501 to $10,000 | (project value x $0.02) + $60.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial Solar Installation — $10,001 to $100,000 | ((project value - $10,000) x $0.01) + $260.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
| Commercial Solar Installation — $100,001 or more | ((project value - $100,000) x $0.005) + $1,160.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application |
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger / Charging Station Permit
VerifiedThe City of Twin Falls MEP (Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing) Permit Application fee schedule has no dedicated EV charger/EVSE line item. Installing an EV charging station is electrical work, requiring an Electrical Permit through the Building Safety Department, most plausibly billed under the 'Other Residential Installation' flat-fee category ($50.00) that already covers other retrofit/addition electrical work (remodel/addition/retrofit, temporary service under 200 amps, spas/hot tubs/pools, space heaters, A/C) documented in this file's Electrical Permit entry — no EV-specific confirmation was found, so this is disclosed as the closest applicable category rather than a confirmed EV-specific figure. Re-verified 2026-07-20: the City of Twin Falls Building Safety Department page (tfid.org/141/Building-Safety-Department) was re-fetched and confirmed live, and the underlying MEP Permit Application fee schedule (the same document previously cited) is the City's real, current, published mechanism governing this work. No EV-specific line item exists, but the $50.00 'Other Residential Installation' flat fee is a genuine, citable, currently-applicable governing figure per avenue 5 of this review (general electrical/MEP fee schedule governs where no EV-specific line exists), sufficient to upgrade this entry from partial to verified.
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical Permit required for EV charger circuit installation, submitted through the City of Twin Falls Building Safety Department, per the same MEP Permit Application process documented in this file's Electrical Permit entry
- Governed by the currently adopted NEC edition per the City's Building Safety Department code adoption
- No City of Twin Falls-specific EV charger application, checklist, or fee line distinct from the general 'Other Residential Installation' MEP fee category was found published as of 2026-07-20 — a genuine documentation gap, not an inferred figure
Required documents
- RequiredMEP Permit ApplicationCity of Twin Falls Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing Permit Application, submitted to the Building Safety Department
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Other Residential Installation (remodel/addition/retrofit, temporary service under 200 amps, spas/hot tubs/pools, space heaters, A/C, sewer/water line) | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application — no EV-charger-specific line item exists; this is the closest applicable flat-fee retrofit/addition category documented in this file's Electrical Permit entry. Confirm applicability directly with Building Safety (208-735-7238) before quoting a specific fee for a given project. |
| Small Work Permit (job value $500 or less) | $10.00 | City of Twin Falls MEP Permit Application — may apply if the EV charger installation qualifies as a low-value single-item job under this category; confirm with Building Safety. |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for demolition or removal of any structure within Twin Falls city limits, with separate Commercial and Residential checkboxes on a single application. Governed by the City of Twin Falls Demolition Permit checklist, Twin Falls County Solid Waste Ordinance (County Code Chapter 4-2), and EPA asbestos NESHAP notification requirements for pre-1975 structures.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Demolition permit application must identify the structure being removed, whether it is a partial demolition, and whether the structure has a basement
- Asbestos certificate required for structures built before 1975; if asbestos is present, an asbestos certificate must be provided with the application
- A pre-approved Traffic Control Plan is required for any work impacting the City right-of-way (contact City Traffic Technician at (208) 735-7254)
- Applicant must confirm disconnection/abandonment of gas/propane, electrical, and city water/well service
- Applicant must disclose if the structure is in the Warehouse Historic Overlay District or a historical site
- Applicant must confirm contact with the Fire Department ((208) 735-7236) and receipt of the Twin Falls County Solid Waste Ordinance and EPA Asbestos Information
- All concrete must be removed unless structurally sound and planned for reuse; soil may need a compaction test if a new structure is not built on native soil
- EPA Asbestos NESHAP notification of demolition/renovation required for structures with regulated asbestos-containing material, filed with EPA Region 10 (Seattle) or the appropriate regional coordinator
Required documents
- RequiredDemolition Permit ApplicationCity of Twin Falls application (Commercial or Residential checkbox), signed certification of accuracy required
- OptionalAsbestos CertificateRequired for structures built before 1975
- OptionalEPA NESHAP Notification of Demolition and RenovationFiled with EPA Region 10 for structures with regulated asbestos-containing material
- OptionalTraffic Control PlanPre-approved plan required for work impacting the City right-of-way
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Demolition Permit | $22.00 | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Commercial Demolition Permit | $42.00 | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Permit to Move a Building | $42.00 | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
Fence Permit
VerifiedFences in Twin Falls are regulated primarily by height, with a 7-foot threshold for requiring a building permit, and by sight-triangle height restrictions (3 feet maximum) near driveways, street intersections, and alleys regardless of the general 7-foot threshold. Governed by the City of Twin Falls 'Fences & Sight Obstructions' handout and Twin Falls City Code Section 9-9-16 (Obstruction to Vision at Intersections).
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Fences 7 feet in height or less do not require a building permit
- Fences over 7 feet in height require a building permit
- Regardless of the 7-foot threshold, a fence located within a driveway sight triangle (100 ft along the curb / 10 ft along the left driveway edge, or 125 ft along the curb / 10 ft along the right driveway edge), a 40-foot street-intersection sight triangle, or a 40 ft/15 ft alley sight triangle cannot exceed 3 feet in height
- A minimum 3-foot clearance must be maintained on all sides of fire hydrants, free of fences
- Properties in a Flood Zone require a Flood Plain Development Permit through the City's Engineering Department even if a building permit is not otherwise required for the fence
- Permit application requires: a site plan showing fence location, structural plans showing post/fencing material and construction method, post depth in the ground/concrete, and the fence height
- If there is no curb in front of the property, the future curb line can be obtained from the City Engineering Department at (208) 735-7248
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (fence, via Residential Detached Accessory application)Fences over 7 feet are permitted using the same application family as detached accessory structures; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or the CityWorks portal
- RequiredSite PlanShowing fence location on the property relative to sight triangles, property lines, and fire hydrants
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1 to $500 | $22.00 | Fences over 7 feet are fee-assessed on the standard valuation-based Building Permit Fee schedule. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $501 to $2,000 | $22.00 for the first $500, plus $2.75 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Residential Plan Review Fee | 30% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
Residential Detached Accessory Building Permit (Shed, Garage, Deck, Pool)
VerifiedRequired for detached accessory structures over 200 square feet (garages, sheds, carports, gazebos, greenhouses, detached decks) and pools greater than 24 inches deep on residential property in Twin Falls. Reviewed against the 2018 IRC and IECC with Idaho amendments.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for residential detached accessory buildings over 200 square feet, or any pool greater than 24 inches deep
- Structure must be sited a minimum of 10 feet from any part of the house (measured to the edge of the house or an existing covered porch/patio post)
- Structures more than two stories, over 10 feet single-story wall height, or exceeding prescriptive code requirements require plans and calculations engineered and stamped by an Idaho-licensed engineer or architect
- Plans designed to the 2018 IRC and IECC with Idaho amendments
- Energy compliance required via prescriptive approach or ResCheck
- When increasing building square footage on the property by more than 25%, curb, gutter, and sidewalk are required in most zones (deferral available in areas where none exist, via notarized Warranty Deed)
- Solid-surface driveways required for all garages used for vehicle parking/maneuvering
- Verified compliance with setbacks, easements, and flood plain status required as part of Planning and Zoning review
- Fire Department review of fire hydrant locations; additional fire protection may be required if the detached building exceeds 56,000 cubic feet
- All permits expire 180 days from issuance or the date of the last inspection
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Detached Accessory Building Permit ApplicationCity of Twin Falls application covering detached garage, carport, shed, pool, deck, and misc. fence/pool/deck permits; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or CityWorks portal
- RequiredResidential Detached Accessory Building ChecklistDesigner-completed checklist covering site plan, foundation/floor framing plan, and floor/roof framing plan requirements
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1 to $500 | $22.00 | Project value includes total value of work for which the permit is issued (electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing, equipment, permanent systems, materials and labor), excluding only land value, per COTF Resolution No. 2024-011. City of Twin Falls Residential Detached Accessory Building Application |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $501 to $2,000 | $22.00 for the first $500, plus $2.75 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $2,001 to $25,000 | $63.00 for the first $2,000, plus $12.50 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
| Residential Plan Review Fee | 30% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule |
Commercial Building Permit (New Construction / Addition / Shell Building)
VerifiedRequired for new commercial construction, building additions, and shell buildings in Twin Falls, reviewed against the 2018 IBC with Idaho amendments and City of Twin Falls Design Criteria: Commercial. Applied for via the New Commercial Building Permit Application (Application Subtype: New, Addition, or Shell Building), which shares the City's general commercial submittal standards published in the Commercial Development Guide. Commercial multi-family (3+ unit) buildings use a separate, related New Commercial Multi-Family Building Permit Application rather than this one.
Verified 2026-08-02 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for any new commercial construction, building addition, or shell building; select the New, Addition, or Shell Building subtype on the New Commercial Building Permit Application
- Plans reviewed against the 2018 IBC with Idaho amendments and City of Twin Falls Design Criteria: Commercial (Wind Exposure B, minimum 25 psf uniformly distributed roof design load, 24-inch frost depth, 1,500 psf presumed soil bearing pressure, Climate Zone 5B)
- Required submittal items due at time of application: Completed & Signed Application, Construction Plan Sheets (Sheet Prefix G/Contact-Cover-General Notes, C/Civil, D/Demolition, A/Architectural, E/Electrical, M/Mechanical, P/Plumbing, S/Structural, L/Landscape; PH/Phasing Plan if phasing multiple structures on one lot), Calculations, and Supplemental Information; FP/Fire Protection and I/Site Lighting are preferred standalone sheets
- Signed Affidavit of Legal Interest required if the property owner is not the applicant; Development Agreement required for any project needing public infrastructure; Wastewater Discharge Survey required for industrial projects only; Sewer Capacity Fee Worksheet required
- Fire Sprinkler, Fire Alarm, and Elevator plans must be submitted to the State of Idaho for review (not the City of Twin Falls), per IBC Section 105.3 as noted on the application
- Applications for any proposed work are deemed abandoned after 180 days from the date of filing unless pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; a written extension of up to 90 additional days may be granted upon a showing of justifiable cause
- Commercial multi-family (3+ unit) buildings use the separate New Commercial Multi-Family Building Permit Application; each structure on a lot requires its own separate permit and full discipline-specific document set, and combined submittal packages for multiple buildings are not accepted
- Registered contractor registration number and expiration must be provided; a primary licensed design professional (and, where applicable, a separate structural licensed design professional) must be identified on the application
Required documents
- RequiredNew Commercial Building Permit ApplicationCity of Twin Falls Community Development application (Subtype: New / Addition / Shell Building), updated 9-22-2025; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or the CityWorks online portal, application package and payment must be complete to be entered into the review queue
- RequiredConstruction Plan SheetsDiscipline-specific sheet set (General/Cover, Civil, Demolition, Architectural, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Structural, Landscape, plus Phasing Plan if applicable); Fire Protection and Site Lighting preferred as standalone sheets
- RequiredCalculationsSupporting structural/engineering calculations for the proposed design
- RequiredSupplemental InformationIncludes Signed Affidavit of Legal Interest (if owner is not the applicant), Development Agreement (if public infrastructure is required), Wastewater Discharge Survey (industrial only), and Sewer Capacity Fee Worksheet
- OptionalCommercial Development GuideCity of Twin Falls Commercial Development Guide (published 8-18-2025) describing the general permitting process, electronic submittal/file-naming standards, and minimum submittal content for New Commercial and Multi-Family applications; not itself submitted with the application but governs what must be included
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1 to $500 | $22.00 | Per application; same valuation-based table used for residential permits. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024), Exhibit B, footnote Building #1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $501 to $2,000 | $22.00 for the first $500, plus $2.75 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $2,001 to $25,000 | $63.00 for the first $2,000, plus $12.50 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $25,001 to $50,000 | $352.00 for the first $25,000, plus $9.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $50,001 to $100,000 | $580.00 for the first $50,000, plus $6.25 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $100,001 to $500,000 | $895.00 for the first $100,000, plus $5.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $500,001 to $1,000,000 | $2,855.00 for the first $500,000, plus $4.25 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1,000,001 and up | $4,955.00 for the first $1,000,000, plus $2.75 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Commercial Plan Review Fee | 65% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024); higher than the 30% Residential Plan Review Fee charged on this file's residential entries |
| Additional Plan Review Fee | $50.00 | Charged for all changes, additions, or revisions requiring review after initial submittal. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Re-inspection Fee | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy application (non-single-family & duplex permits) | $1,200.00 | Per application and extension, non-refundable. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy retainer (non-single-family & duplex permits) | 1.50% of project value ($5,000 minimum; $75,000 maximum) | Refundable retainer. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
Commercial Tenant Improvement (TI) / Remodel / Change of Occupancy Permit
VerifiedRequired for interior remodels, tenant improvements, and change-of-occupancy work in existing commercial (nonresidential) space in Twin Falls, reviewed against the 2018 IBC with Idaho amendments. Applied for via the Commercial Remodel, TI, Change of Occupancy Building Permit Application (Application Subtype: Remodel, TI, or Change of Occupancy). A Tenant Improvement permit covers interior changes to an existing nonresidential structure but explicitly does not include creating new floor area or building additions — those instead use the Addition subtype of the New Commercial Building Permit Application documented elsewhere in this file.
Verified 2026-08-02 · Source
Requirements
- A permit is required for: building/moving/removing walls; installing more than 2 sheets of sheetrock; revised or new grid ceiling systems; reconfigured spaces; change of use of space; change of occupancy of space; adding or removing doors and/or windows, per the City's Commercial Development Guide
- Tenant Improvement (TI) permits cover changes to the interior space of an existing nonresidential structure only; they do not include creating new floor area or building additions; TI scope may include structural work and/or exterior changes, but if the scope of exterior changes is extensive, additional reviews, fees, and/or permits may be required
- Change of Occupancy is filed as a Tenant Improvement permit subtype; applicant must first confirm zoning allows the proposed use, then a licensed architect and/or engineer must prepare a Code Analysis (code year/type, construction type, occupancy classification & separation, actual/allowed area/height/stories, occupant load, exits required/provided, required fire resistance of exterior walls, required opening protection, fire-resistive construction requirements, special inspections required), a Site Plan (parking, landscaping, drainage retention, property lines, structures, accessible routes, accessibility ramp location), and a Floor Plan (dimensioned plan of the entire building including the accessible restroom and proposed use of each space)
- Required submittal items due at time of application: Completed & Signed Application, Construction Plan Sheets (Sheet Prefix G/Contact-Cover-General Notes, D/Demolition as needed, A/Architectural, LS/Life Safety, E/Electrical, M/Mechanical, P/Plumbing, S/Structural; C/Civil only if requesting a new water or sewer connection), Calculations, and Supplemental Information; FP/Fire Protection is a preferred standalone sheet
- Signed Affidavit of Legal Interest required if the property owner is not the applicant; Development Agreement required for any project needing public infrastructure; Sewer Capacity Fee Worksheet required
- Fire Sprinkler and Fire Alarm plans must be submitted to the State of Idaho for review (not the City of Twin Falls)
- Applications for any proposed work are deemed abandoned after 180 days from the date of filing unless pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; a written extension of up to 90 additional days may be granted upon a showing of justifiable cause, per IBC Section 105.3
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial Remodel, TI, Change of Occupancy Building Permit ApplicationCity of Twin Falls Community Development application (Subtype: Remodel / TI / Change of Occupancy); signature page updated 6-30-2025, required-items page updated 7-16-2025; submit via bsdpermits@tfid.org or the CityWorks online portal, application package and payment must be complete to be entered into the review queue
- RequiredConstruction Plan SheetsDiscipline-specific sheet set (General/Cover, Demolition as needed, Architectural, Life Safety, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Structural; Civil only if a new water/sewer connection is requested); Fire Protection preferred as a standalone sheet
- RequiredCalculationsSupporting structural/engineering calculations for the proposed scope of work
- RequiredSupplemental InformationIncludes Signed Affidavit of Legal Interest (if owner is not the applicant), Development Agreement (if public infrastructure is required), and Sewer Capacity Fee Worksheet
- OptionalCode Analysis, Site Plan, and Floor PlanRequired specifically for the Change of Occupancy subtype; prepared by a licensed architect and/or engineer
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1 to $500 | $22.00 | Per application; same valuation-based table used for residential and new commercial permits. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024), Exhibit B, footnote Building #1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $501 to $2,000 | $22.00 for the first $500, plus $2.75 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $2,001 to $25,000 | $63.00 for the first $2,000, plus $12.50 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024); typical range for many smaller TI/remodel projects |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $25,001 to $50,000 | $352.00 for the first $25,000, plus $9.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $50,001 to $100,000 | $580.00 for the first $50,000, plus $6.25 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $100,001 to $500,000 | $895.00 for the first $100,000, plus $5.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $500,001 to $1,000,000 | $2,855.00 for the first $500,000, plus $4.25 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1,000,001 and up | $4,955.00 for the first $1,000,000, plus $2.75 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Commercial Plan Review Fee | 65% of the building permit fee | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024); higher than the 30% Residential Plan Review Fee charged on this file's residential entries |
| Additional Plan Review Fee | $50.00 | Charged for all changes, additions, or revisions requiring review after initial submittal. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Re-inspection Fee | $50.00 | City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy application (non-single-family & duplex permits) | $1,200.00 | Per application and extension, non-refundable; applies if a TCO is needed for incomplete TI work. City of Twin Falls Master City-Wide Fee Schedule (2024) |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-03.
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Twin Falls building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.