AcreScore โ€” What's this?
84/ 100

Camas County, ID

One of the most buildable counties in Magic Valley. USDA Rural eligible, no zoning restrictions, and affordable land.

๐Ÿ“Š84/100AcreScore
๐Ÿ’ฐ$3KLand $/acre
๐Ÿ $220KHome Value
๐Ÿ‘ฅ1,080Population
๐Ÿ“ˆ+-0.5%Growth (10yr)
๐ŸŒŠ3%Flood RiskLow
๐ŸŒก๏ธCold DryClimateZone 6B

๐Ÿ—๏ธ Can You Build Here?

Idaho has no state building code โ€” regulations are county-level. Camas County has no formal zoning ordinance, meaning most rural land can be used for residential construction including barndominiums without special permits beyond standard building codes.

ZoneMin LotBarndo OK?
UnzonedNoneโœ… Yes

Camas County has no formal zoning ordinance. Standard building permits still required. Contact the county building department for specifics.

๐Ÿ“‹ What Permits Do You Need?

Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Idaho requirements โ€” licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.

Required Permits

  • โ€ข Building permit (residential)
  • โ€ข Septic permit (if no public sewer)
  • โ€ข Electrical permit
  • โ€ข Plumbing permit

Permit Office

Camas County Building Department Fairfield, ID Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements

๐ŸŒŠ What's the Flood & Soil Risk?

Very low flood risk. Only 3% of Camas County land falls within FEMA-designated flood zones โ€” well below the national average.

3%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability

Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey

๐Ÿ’ฐ What Does It Cost?

Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $3,000 per acre make Camas County one of the most budget-friendly options in Idaho.

$3K
Median $/acre
$220K
Median Home Value
$120โ€“200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.65%
Property Tax Rate

Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Camas County Assessor

๐Ÿ”๏ธ Why People Love Living Here

Camas County sits in the heart of Magic Valley. Twin Falls is 70 min away. Idaho has a state income tax โ€” factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.

๐Ÿ—๏ธ

Affordable Land

Median land at $3,000/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.

๐Ÿ”จ

Build Freedom

No formal zoning means you can build your barndominium, shop, or homestead without jumping through bureaucratic hoops.

At a Glance

Population1,080
10-Year Growth-0.5%
County SeatFairfield
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCold Dry (Zone 6B)

How Close Is Everything?

Twin Falls70 min
SUN40 min
Austinvaries

๐Ÿ’ง Utilities & Infrastructure

Most rural Camas County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Fairfield. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.

Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas

๐Ÿฆ Financing & Incentives

Camas County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans โ€” zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.

โœ… USDA Eligible
Zero down payment
FHA / VA
Available county-wide
0.65%
Property tax rate

Check USDA eligibility for your address โ†’

๐Ÿ“ Nearby Counties

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โ“ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build a barndominium in Camas County?
Yes. Camas County has no formal zoning ordinance. You'll still need standard building permits, but barndominiums are generally permitted on rural land. Check with the county building department for specific requirements.
How much does land cost in Camas County?
Median price is approximately $3,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Camas County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes โ€” most of Camas County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Camas County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.65%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Camas County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Idaho, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.