Blackfoot, Idaho Development News
GatherGov Agents listens to meetings 24/7 delivering the latest real estate development updates, legislation, and news.
Development News from the latest meeting
City of Blackfoot Council Meeting - July 7th, 2026
Published: Jul 7, 2026
City Council Approves Ordinance to Strengthen Animal Control Enforcement
The council addressed a housekeeping change to the animal ordinance (Ordinance 2295) to ensure proper enforcement by assigning penalties. Previously, some violations were not classified as infractions or misdemeanors, leaving them unenforceable. The updated ordinance designates infractions as civil fines and misdemeanors as subject to judicial penalties, typically up to $300 and six months in jail. The discussion also touched upon public concerns regarding the enforcement of existing animal control ordinances. The city plans to hire an ordinance control officer by July 31st, who will handle animal complaints, and residents were advised on avenues for reporting issues. The council ultimately approved Ordinance 2295.
City Council Approves Home Business Registration, Bans Kratom Sales, and Adopts Burn Ban
The council discussed and approved Ordinance 2296, establishing a voluntary business registration for home-based businesses. The purpose is to create a comprehensive database of businesses for emergency services, infrastructure projects, and economic development. The registration is free and allows businesses to obtain recognition through entities like the Chamber of Commerce and to place a non-illuminated 3x5 identification sign on their property. The ordinance does not alter existing planning and zoning regulations, such as conditional use permits or property usage limits. The council also discussed and approved Ordinance 2297, banning the sale and delivery of kratom, with an exception for dried kratom leaves containing less than 0.005% of specific compounds, provided it is certified on the package. This ordinance aims to prevent youth access and address the dangerous aspects of kratom derivatives, with an effective date of August 1st. The council also adopted the county burn ban and approved a street closure extension on Pacific Street for the America's 250 celebration.
City Council Approves Fence Ordinance Changes and Traffic Study Requirements for Developments
The council discussed and adopted Ordinance 2298, which modifies fence regulations. The key changes include removing the fencing permit requirement, placing the burden of proof for property lines on the complainant, and stipulating that fences must be built entirely on the owner's property. A building permit is still required for fences over seven feet tall. These changes aim to prevent the city from becoming involved in civil property disputes. In a related matter, the council also adopted Ordinance 2299, which mandates traffic studies for new developments meeting specific criteria (100 units or more, or seven acres or greater), aligning with state requirements for developments impacting state highways. The mayor will assign oversight for these studies since the city currently lacks a city engineer.
City Amends Fence Regulations, Adopts Traffic Study Requirements for Developments
The council reviewed and adopted Ordinance 2298, which amends Title 11, Chapter 8, Section 7 regarding fences. The ordinance removes the requirement for a fencing permit, shifting the burden of proof for property lines to the complainant and requiring fences to be built entirely on the owner's property. A building permit is still required for fences over 7 feet tall, aligning with 2018 building codes. The changes aim to prevent the city from being involved in civil disputes over property boundaries. Separately, the council considered and approved the findings of planning and zoning regarding traffic studies, adopting Ordinance 2299. This ordinance requires traffic studies for developments with 100 units or more or on seven acres or greater, aligning with Idaho Department of Transportation requirements for developments exiting onto state highways. The mayor will assign enforcement of this ordinance, as the city currently lacks a dedicated city engineer.
Council Tables Decision on Wastewater Plant Gravel Surplus Amidst Potential Reuse Options
The council discussed declaring pitrun gravel at the wastewater treatment plant surplus property. Initially underestimated in value, three excavation companies provided bids, revealing significant worth. The council debated whether to declare the gravel surplus for sale or explore using it for the relocation of a walking path near the airport (required by the FAA) and potentially for filling holes in Jensen's Grove to conserve water rights. Concerns were raised about material testing, property ownership in Jensen's Grove (involving BLM and Army Corps), and the potential cost savings of using the gravel for the walkway relocation versus selling it. Ultimately, the council voted to table the decision to allow for further research into the most beneficial use of the gravel.
Get Weekly Development News of Blackfoot
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news.
From $25/year
The Blackfoot News archive
Site Plan Meeting
Site Plan Meeting
City of Blackfoot Planning and Zoning Meeting June 16th 2026
Site Plan Meeting
Planning & Zoning Work Meeting
City of Blackfoot Council Meeting
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news. Get your edge today.
GatherGov Market Intelligence
For Owners & Developers
See entitlement risk and deploy capital where there is the highest probability of return
For AEC
Win more projects by discovering opportunities before your competitors do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blackfoot ,Idaho Real Estate Development
Get Weekly Development News of Blackfoot, Idaho | From $25/year