Kootenai County adopts permanent code for marine service businesses, eases tram setback requirements

Kootenai County commissioners voted Feb. 26 to make permanent an interim ordinance (ORA25-0002) permitting marine service businesses in the Commercial District and clarifying shoreline management rules to allow shared tram infrastructure with a zero side-yard setback when property owners consent.

Staff presented the ordinance as a response to local industry needs and planning commission recommendation for approval. Planner Ben Tarbutton told the board the interim ordinance “allowed for these types of businesses to be established and to use the shoreline management area in a way to service the local industry and property owners.” Tarbutton said the board-approved amendment clarifies tram setback regulations so neighboring owners can share tram infrastructure without complex easements, provided no encroachment occurs without recorded authority.

Why it matters: The change removes a regulatory barrier that had forced property owners and businesses into complicated solutions to access waterfront property and may simplify operations for marine-related services and boat access in shoreline areas.

Questions at the hearing focused on where the tram language appears in the code (staff pointed to page 4, section 841106.c) and whether variances remain available; staff and legal counsel confirmed variances are still allowed. No public opposition was recorded at the hearing.

Outcome: The board moved to end testimony, deliberated briefly, and approved ORA25-0002 by unanimous roll call. The ordinance replaces the interim provision and includes the tram setback clarification; staff noted the planning commission had recommended approval.