Jefferson County enacts one‑year moratorium on new billboards in unincorporated areas

The Jefferson County Commissioners on May 28 approved Ordinance 2024‑09, a temporary moratorium that prohibits new billboards, digital signs and other off‑premise outdoor advertising in unincorporated parts of the county pending a zoning code update.

Milton with the county planning office told commissioners the proposal grew out of an application submitted about 10 months ago for seven new billboards and that current ordinance language could permit very dense placement along major corridors. “About 10 months ago, we got an application for seven new billboards in the county,” Milton said, explaining how code spacing rules could allow numerous signs along Highway 20 and I‑15 if not revised.

The ordinance, read into the record by the chair, cites Idaho Code 67‑65‑24 as authority for adopting an interim moratorium when zoning amendments are pending and when immediate action is necessary to protect public health, safety or welfare. It takes effect on passage and publication in the Jefferson Star and remains in force for up to one calendar year or until the county adopts zoning revisions addressing billboards, whichever comes first. Any permits issued during the moratorium will be null and void.

Commissioners discussed directing the planning and zoning commission to draft updated sign regulations that balance existing sign owners’ rights with the county’s desire to limit off‑premise advertising along commercial corridors. One commissioner said new billboard placements should prioritize local businesses and avoid covering views of buildings along commercial strips.

The motion to adopt Ordinance 2024‑09 was made and seconded and passed on a roll‑call vote.

Next steps: planning staff will work with the planning and zoning commission to draft code language for consideration and return to the commission within the moratorium period.