2026 Session Wrap: Idaho
House Bill 511: Private forest land, surcharge
The bill increases the maximum surcharge associated with improved forest land from $40 to $100 per improved lot or parcel. This surcharge is intended to offset costs related to wildfire preparedness.
The legislation maintains the requirement that forest landowners provide fire protection in accordance with standards set by the State Board of Land Commissioners, either directly or through membership in an approved forest protective association. For owners of 26 acres or more, the annual assessment remains capped at 65 cents per acre, while owners of 25 acres or fewer are assessed a minimum amount based on 25 acres. The bill maintains a wildfire equipment replacement fund, into which reimbursement revenues and other funds may be deposited for the replacement of capital wildfire equipment. Additionally, the bill allows for supplemental assessments if actual wildfire losses exceed budgeted amounts, provided the total does not surpass the maximum assessment. The act was declared an emergency measure and took effect July 1, 2026.
2026 Wildfire Bill Tracking &
Forging a Resilient West Dashboard
Western States
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