Safe access for emergency responders is an essential part of protecting lives and property.

Idaho law and the adopted fire code establish requirements for fire apparatus access roads and driveways serving new construction and development. Local fire districts are responsible for reviewing access within their jurisdictions to ensure emergency vehicles can safely reach structures when needed.

These requirements address factors such as driveway width, slope, overhead clearance, surface conditions, and turnaround areas. Proper access allows firefighters and other emergency responders to reach a property quickly, position their equipment, and operate safely during an emergency.

Planning a New Driveway or Building Project?

We encourage property owners, builders, and designers to review fire access requirements early in the planning process. Properties with steep terrain, long driveways, limited turnaround space, or other access challenges may require additional review.

If your project presents access challenges, please contact your local fire district before finalizing your site plan. Early coordination can help identify acceptable solutions and avoid costly changes during construction.

Valley County Fire Prevention has developed the following guides to help property owners, builders, and developers understand the requirements and incorporate them into their plans early in the design process.

Please review these documents before submitting a site plan or beginning driveway construction.

Residential Driveway & Fire Access — Applicant Guide

An overview of fire access requirements for residential construction, including driveway width, grade, surface conditions, overhead clearance, and turnaround requirements.

Driveway Site Plan Requirements - for architects 

A checklist of the information that must be shown on a site plan submitted for fire district review. Use this guide when preparing plans for new construction or driveway improvements.

Site Plan Review & Approval

Site plans for new construction and development should be submitted to the appropriate city or county building department as part of the normal permitting process.

The building department will coordinate with the local fire district for review of fire apparatus access and other applicable fire code requirements.

Applicants are encouraged to review the guides above before submitting their plans. For properties with steep driveways, limited turnaround space, or other access challenges, we recommend contacting the local fire district early in the design process.

Questions? Contact Your Local Fire District

Cascade Fire Protection District:  Chief Steve Hull, (208) 382-3200, steve@cascaderuralfire.com

Donnelly Fire Protection District: Fire Marshall Jerry Holenbeck, (208) 849-2438, firemarshal@donnellyfire.net

McCall Fire Protection District: Fire Prevention Officer, Ryan Garber, (208) 469-0135, ryan@mccallfire.com