Are COVID-19 Eviction Protections Still in Effect in Idaho?

If you’re renting in Idaho and worried about eviction after the pandemic, it’s important to know what protections remain, what your rights are, and where to find support. Idaho’s COVID-19 emergency eviction rules have changed over the past several years. This guide breaks down which (if any) protections are still in effect, and what steps Idaho renters should take if they’re at risk of eviction or struggling with rent.

Overview of COVID-19 Eviction Protections in Idaho

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were temporary bans on certain evictions nationwide and in some states. However, as of 2024, most Idaho-specific COVID-19 eviction protections have expired. Both the federal CDC eviction moratorium and Idaho's local emergency measures are no longer active. Idaho courts now follow ordinary eviction (unlawful detainer) laws as set out in official state legislation.

Current Idaho Eviction Law

• Evictions (also called unlawful detainer actions) must follow Idaho Statutes Title 6, Chapter 3 – Forcible Entry and Unlawful Detainer.^[1]
• Landlords must give proper written notice before filing for eviction. The most common reason is non-payment of rent.
• Hearings and enforcement are managed through local Idaho district courts, overseen by the Idaho Judicial Branch.^[2]
• No COVID-specific forms or defenses are presently recognized by Idaho courts.

While COVID-19 protections have ended, renters may still have important rights under general tenancy law.

Are Any Temporary or Emergency Eviction Protections Still Active?

No state or federal emergency orders preventing eviction for non-payment of rent are in effect in Idaho as of 2024. However, normal court processes must be followed for any eviction.

• If you receive an eviction notice, you must respond promptly to avoid a default judgment.
• Renters facing COVID-related hardship may be eligible for financial assistance through state or local programs, but not for a delay of eviction proceedings.
• If you are behind on rent, open communication with your landlord may help avoid court action.

Responding to an Eviction Notice in Idaho

If you receive a notice to vacate or pay rent, the landlord must use proper forms and procedures. Here’s an overview of what to expect and how to proceed:

• Notice to Pay or Vacate: You must receive at least a 3-day written notice if you have not paid rent. The form is typically titled “Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate.” There is no official state-issued template – landlords may draft the notice, but it must include the date, property address, overdue amount, and deadline.^[1]
• Summons and Complaint: If you don’t pay or move out after the notice period, your landlord can file a court eviction (unlawful detainer action). You’ll receive a “Summons and Complaint” from the court with a hearing date.
• Idaho court forms for eviction are maintained by the Idaho Judicial Branch. See the official forms portal for more details.

Each case goes before a state district judge, where you may present your defense.

Sample Official Forms Relevant to Idaho Evictions

• Summons (CAO UD 2-1) – Used by courts to notify the renter of an upcoming hearing in an eviction case.
  Example: If you receive a Summons, it means your landlord has started an official court eviction process and you must respond or attend court. Find the form sample at the official Idaho Judicial Branch.
• Answer to Complaint for Eviction (CAO UD 3-1) – Used by tenants to reply to allegations made in an eviction complaint.
  Example: Complete and file this form with the court before your hearing if you wish to present your defense. The sample form is available at the Idaho Judicial Branch.

For up-to-date court forms, always use the Idaho Judicial Branch’s forms page.

If You Need Emergency Rent Assistance

While eviction delays due to COVID-19 are no longer available, Idaho renters might still qualify for temporary emergency rental assistance. Please note most pandemic relief programs have closed, but it’s always best to confirm current options with state agencies.

Your Rights and Key Steps If Facing Eviction

If you’re served with an eviction notice or summons, you still have important legal rights and options:

• Respond to any court paperwork within the deadline – use the Answer to Complaint form if applicable.
• Attend your court hearing on time, with any documents, receipts, or evidence.
• Seek free legal help if you have questions about your notice or your rights.
• For most evictions, you cannot be locked out or removed without a court order executed by law enforcement.

This process is managed in Idaho’s district courts; find locations and resources at the official Idaho Judicial Branch website.

FAQ: Idaho Renters and COVID-19 Eviction Law

1. Are there any COVID-19 eviction protections still active in Idaho?
   No. All emergency pandemic eviction moratoriums have ended. Evictions must now follow standard Idaho law.
2. Can my landlord evict me for unpaid rent due to COVID-19 hardship in 2024?
   Yes, unpaid rent can be grounds for eviction. No special pandemic protections prevent this in Idaho.
3. How much notice must my landlord give me for nonpayment of rent?
   Your landlord must give you at least three days’ written notice before starting the court eviction process.
4. Where do I find official Idaho eviction forms?
   Find all official court eviction forms on the Idaho Judicial Branch forms page.
5. Which state agency or tribunal handles evictions in Idaho?
   Evictions are handled through the Idaho Judicial Branch (state district courts).

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Idaho Judicial Branch – Find official court info, forms, and courthouse contacts
• Idaho Legal Aid Services – Free or low-cost legal advice and eviction help
• Boise Housing and Economic Relief – Emergency rental and housing support (check your locality for programs)
• Idaho eviction law (Title 6, Chapter 3)

---

1. [1] Idaho Statutes Title 6, Chapter 3 – Forcible Entry and Unlawful Detainer
2. [2] Idaho Judicial Branch

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations