Idaho 60-Day Notice Overview
Idaho does not require a 60-day notice for standard residential tenancy terminations. Under Idaho Code 55-208, month-to-month tenancies can be terminated with at least one month\'s (30 days) written notice. The notice must be given before the end of the monthly period. Idaho\'s landlord-tenant laws are found in Title 6, Chapter 3 (forcible entry and detainer) and Title 55, Chapter 2 (tenancies).
Idaho is one of the most landlord-friendly states in the West. The state has no rent control, no just-cause eviction requirements, and no mandatory relocation assistance. Idaho\'s rapidly growing population — particularly in the Treasure Valley (Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell) — has created an extremely competitive rental market. Despite the 30-day statutory minimum, many Idaho landlords voluntarily provide 60 days notice for long-term tenants to maintain goodwill and reduce legal challenges.
30 Days
Statutory default
$75-$166
Court filing fees
Written
Notice required
2-4 wks
Court process
When a 60-Day Notice Applies in Idaho
Since Idaho's statutory default for month-to-month termination is 30 days, understanding when a 60-day notice is actually required or advisable is essential for landlords.
Lease-Required Extended Notice
Many professionally managed properties in Boise and surrounding areas include 60-day non-renewal clauses. When the lease specifies 60 days notice, the contractual obligation overrides the 30-day statutory minimum under Idaho Code 55-208.
Idaho Housing and Finance Association Programs
Federal Section 8 programs administered through the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) frequently require 60-90 days notice before termination. LIHTC properties throughout Idaho also have extended notice requirements specified in their regulatory agreements.
Long-Term Tenant Courtesy
In Idaho\'s rapidly growing markets — Boise, Meridian, Eagle, and Coeur d\'Alene — finding replacement housing within 30 days is increasingly difficult. Providing 60 days to tenants who have lived in the property for multiple years reduces the risk of legal disputes and results in smoother transitions.
Idaho Legal Requirements
Idaho's landlord-tenant statutes establish specific requirements for termination notices that must be followed precisely.
Idaho Self-Help Eviction Prohibition
Idaho strictly prohibits self-help evictions. Under Idaho Code 6-303, a landlord cannot change locks, remove doors or windows, shut off utilities, or remove a tenant\'s belongings without a court order. Violating this prohibition exposes the landlord to liability for actual damages, and Idaho courts have awarded significant penalties for illegal lockouts. The landlord must go through the court-ordered eviction process.
Notice Content Requirements
- Written Notice: Idaho Code 55-208 requires written notice. Oral notice is insufficient for terminating residential tenancies in Idaho
- Tenant and Property ID: Include all tenant names from the lease and the complete property address including city and county
- Termination Date: State the exact date at least 60 days from service, aligned with the end of the monthly rental period
- Landlord Contact: Include the landlord or property manager name, Idaho mailing address, and telephone number
- Security Deposit Reference: Idaho Code 6-321 requires the deposit to be returned within 21 days of termination with an itemized statement of deductions, or 30 days if the lease provides
How to Serve a 60-Day Eviction Notice in Idaho
Proper service is critical in Idaho. If the landlord cannot prove the notice was properly delivered, the court will dismiss the eviction action.
Prepare the Notice
Draft using a Idaho-specific template referencing Idaho Code 55-208. Include all tenant names, property address, and the 60-day termination date
Personal Delivery (Preferred)
Hand-deliver the notice to the tenant at the rental premises. Idaho courts prefer personal service. Use a process server or witness for documentation
Certified Mail Alternative
Send via certified mail with return receipt requested to the tenant at the rental property. Keep postal receipts as evidence for court
Complete Proof of Service
Document date, time, method, and location of service. Keep certified mail receipts and return cards for court proceedings
File Unlawful Detainer Action
After 60 days expire without the tenant vacating, file an eviction action in Magistrate Court where the property is located
Idaho Eviction Timeline
Idaho\'s eviction process uses the Unlawful Detainer action (Idaho Code 6-301 et seq.) filed in Magistrate Court. After the complaint is filed, the tenant is served with a summons and has 20 days to file an answer (or 3 days in certain cases). If no answer is filed, the landlord can move for default judgment.
If the tenant answers, the Magistrate Court schedules a trial, typically within 12-20 days. Idaho eviction trials are formal proceedings where both parties present evidence. If the landlord prevails, the court issues a judgment for possession and a writ of restitution.
Total court timeline: 2-4 weeks uncontested, 4-8 weeks contested. Ada County (Boise) and Canyon County (Nampa/Caldwell) have heavier caseloads. Combined with the 60-day notice period, the full process spans 10-16 weeks. Self-help evictions are never permitted under Idaho law.
Idaho Filing Fees & Costs
Eviction costs in Idaho vary by county and court type. Below are typical expenses.
| Fee / Cost | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| Magistrate Court Filing Fee | $75 - $166 |
| Service of Process | $30 - $75 |
| Attorney Fees | $500 - $2,000 |
| Writ of Restitution | $25 - $50 |
| Sheriff Enforcement | $50 - $150 |
Sample Idaho 60-Day Notice
Below is a preview of our Idaho-specific 60-day termination notice template.
60-DAY NOTICE OF TERMINATION
STATE OF IDAHO
Pursuant to Idaho Code 55-208
LANDLORD / PROPERTY OWNER:
Name: [Full Legal Name]
Address: [Idaho Mailing Address]
TENANT(S):
Name(s): [All Tenant Names]
Rental Address: [Full Property Address]
NOTICE OF TERMINATION:
You are hereby notified that your tenancy at the above premises will terminate on[Date — 60 days from service]. You must vacate and surrender possession by that date.
IDAHO COMPLIANCE NOTE
Your security deposit will be returned within 21 days of vacating per Idaho Code 6-321, provided you leave the unit in acceptable condition less normal wear and tear and supply a forwarding address.