Ada County
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of frequently asked questions broken into categories of Marriage/Divorce Records and Other Information, Public Records, Property Assessments/Taxes, Courts, Elections, General Information and Quick Contacts. Click on the question to be directed to its answer. If you need additional assistance, use the phone sheet below to contact the specific department.
**NEW** Ada County's "Question & Answer Guide" has just been posted to our Web site. The publication was designed to give you a convenient way to quickly find answers to your commonly asked questions. Click here to explore the publication and learn about Ada County and the diversity of services and programs we provide!
Marriage/Divorce Records And Other Information
Public Records And Other Documents:
Property Assessment, Taxes And Related Information
Courts
Elections
General Ada County Information
Quick Contacts/Facts
How can I obtain or get a copy of my marriage license, divorce papers, or other county documents like court records or open meeting minutes?
You may obtain these records by filing a Public Records Request. Idaho Code 9-339 allows the public to review or copy public documents. Be as specific as you can in filling out your form before you return it to the appropriate department. Click here to find public records request forms. For more information call 287-6840.
Top
Can we get married today? How much will it cost?
The Recorder’s Office – where you’ll need to go to obtain a marriage license – has a list of judges you can contact to make an appointment with. You can get married on the same day you obtain a license, or you can contact a judge to reserve a time in the future. A marriage license is $30. The Recorder’s Office only accepts cash. There is an ATM in the building. Click here to be directed to the Recorder’s Office’s Web page for more information.
Top
How do I file for divorce? How much will it cost?
Visit the Court Assistance Office’s Web site for more information. The Court Assistance Office has videos, brochures and pamphlets, and other valuable resources for people needing assistance in family law cases and other civil court matters.
Top
Where can I find public hearing agendas, daily meeting agendas, and hearing minutes for the Ada County Commissioners?
Public hearing agendas, daily meeting agendas, and official hearing minutes for all public meetings held by the Ada County Board of Commissioners are posted online and can be found on the Ada County Commissioner's section of this Web site. Click on the Agendas and Minutes link to review the most recent postings.
Top
Where can I find public hearing agendas and minutes for the Planning and Zoning Commission?
Public hearing agendas and official hearing minutes for the Ada County Planning and Zoning Commission are posted online and can be found on the Development Services section of this website. Click on the Agendas and Minutes link to review the most recent postings. Click on Hearing Dates for a list of all scheduled Planning and Zoning hearings.
Top
How do I file a public records request?
Idaho Code 9-339 allows the public to review or copy public documents. Click here for instructions on how to submit a Public Records Request Form and a link to department Public Records Request Forms.
Top
Does Ada County charge for public records requests?
Idaho Code establishes different fee scales for certain requested documents. Speak with the office or department handling the request. Fees are generally nominal, depending on the size of the request.
Top
How do I obtain a copy of an arrest report?
You can get this information either from the Ada County Sheriff’s Office or through the arresting agency. Click here to request arrest records from the Ada County Sheriff online. Or you can compete a written request form and mail or deliver it to the Ada County Sheriff’s Office Records division at 7200 Barrister, Boise, Idaho.
Top
Does Ada County keep records of birth or death certificates?
No. You’ll need to contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare – Bureau of Vital Records and Health statistics (208) 334-5988. Click here for information.
Top
How much is it to file a case with Small Claims Court?
Visit Idaho Legal Aid Services, Inc., for more information on filing a small claims case.
Top
Where do I go for my bankruptcy court?
Ada County does not deal with bankruptcy court. You’ll need to call 334-1074 – the federal bankruptcy courts office on 720 Park Center.
Top
What's the difference between a protection order and a restraining order?
A protective order is criminally enforceable, meaning the offender can be arrested and charged with a criminal offense for violating the order. But the police cannot arrest someone for violating a restraining order. You must go back to the judge who issued the restraining order to enforce it.
Top
Can I find the name of a specific property owner?
Property ownership information is public information, but because of privacy concerns Ada County does not publish this information online. If you are looking for ownership information on one or two parcels, call the Ada County Assessor’s office at (208) 287-7200. If your research is more extensive, come use the free public access computers at the Assessor’s Office directly East the Ada County Courthouse and Administration Building – 190 W. Front Street, Boise.
Top
How is my property assessed?
An Appraiser is required to visit your property once every five years to assess your property’s value. But according to Idaho law, your property must be assessed at market value each year. In the years between an appraiser’s visit, the Ada County Assessor compares current sales of properties similar to yours to determine your home’s market value –- or how much a potential buyer might reasonably pay for your property if it was for sale. Read more here.
Top
How can I find property for sale under the tax deed process?
Ada County rarely has property on auction. Visit this page on the Treasurer’s Web site for more information.
Top
Who can I talk to regarding a lien against my property?
Contact the Ada County Treasurer’s Office at (208) 287-6800
Top
I have a question about my property taxes.
For any information regarding your property taxes, visit the Treasurer’s web site. Click here for more information.
Top
I need to pay a speeding ticket or a court fine. Where do I go?
Visit the Ada County Courthouse building at 200 W. Front Street. Clerks working at the counters in the lobby can take payments for infractions, payable misdemeanors, and payments for misdemeanor and felony cases with fine agreements.
Top
Who do I talk to about my court date?
You can call the Prosecuting Attorney’s office at (208) 287-7700 for assistance, or click here for a list of other phone numbers.
Top
Where do I vote? And where do I register to vote.
Click here to find your polling location. You can download a voter registration card here or Idaho allows same-day registration if you are new to the area or have recently moved. Simply bring a photo ID and a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government document that shows your name and address.
Top
How do I get an absentee ballot?
Click here to be directed to the Ada County elections department and download the absentee ballot request form.
Top
Where can I find information about Ada County demographics?
Information regarding Ada County demographics can be found on the homepage of this website, as well as by clicking on the About Ada County link in the navigation bar to the left. The link provided gives you the most recent U.S. Census information for Ada County as well as a map of the county and other interesting and useful information.
Top
Where can I find Ada County news releases and community announcements?
Ada County issues news releases several times a month. These news releases are posted on the Ada County homepage in the News Releases section. You may also access the news release archives by clicking on the link located in the navigation bar to the left.
Top
Which local media outlets do you provide Ada County news releases to?
The Ada County Public Information Office works with all television, radio, print, and some web-based media and information outlets. The list of primary media organizations receiving Ada County news releases includes:
Top
How much is it to park at the Courthouse?
Capital City Development Corporation - the agency controlling parking facilities at the Ada County Courthouse - charges $2.50 an hour for parking.
Top
I want to work for Ada County. How can I apply for a job?
You can subscribe to an email listserv announcing all open Ada County positions. Click here and subscribe to receive emails about all newly opened positions in Ada County. For more information about working for Ada County, visit the Administrative Services Web site.
Top
What holidays are county offices closed?
| |
New Year’s Day
|
Labor Day
|
| |
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
|
Columbus Day
|
| |
President’s Day
|
Veteran’s Day
|
| |
Memorial Day
|
Thanksgiving Day
|
| |
Independence Day
|
Christmas Day
|
The county will recognize a holiday on Friday if that holiday falls on a Saturday. Similarly, should a holiday fall on a Sunday, county offices will be closed on Monday.
Top
Where do I get a beer and wine license?
Click here for information on how to apply for a beer license, and here for a wine license. Licenses are valid for one year. Direct any questions to the Ada County Recorder’s Office: 208-287-6840
Top
Can I renew / get my driver's license at the Courthouse?
No. You have to renew a picture ID or driver’s license at 400 Benjamin Lane in Boise (located near the Boise Towne Square Mall just behind the Milwaukee Street Target Store). Click here for more information. Remember, on average you’ll find the least busy wait times in the mornings Tuesdays through Thursdays.
Top
Can I get a driver's manual at the Courthouse?
Ada County does not carry driver’s manuals at the Courthouse. Instead, visit 400 Benjamin Lane in Boise, or the Idaho Transportation Department at 3311 W. State Street in Boise.
Top
I have a school project, where can I get more information about Ada County and its government?
Ada County has compiled a slate of documents and brochures you are welcome to use for a school project. See what we’ve collected by clicking here.
Top
What publications does Ada County produce?
See for yourself! Ada County keeps a library of its special publications and brochures here.
Top
I’m looking for a phone number…
Here’s our phone book!
Top
Helpful Links:
Google:www.google.com
Dex Online: www.dexonline.com
Ada County Highway District: www.achd.ada.id.us
Better Business Bureau: www.boise.bbb.org
City of Boise: www.cityofboise.org
City of Eagle: www.cityofeagle.com
Garden City: www.gardencityidaho.govoffice.com
City of Kuna: www.cityofkuna.com
City of Meridian: www.meridiancity.org/home/index.asp
City of Star: http://staridaho.org/
Idaho Association of Cities: www.idahocities.org
State of Idaho: www.idaho.gov
Idaho Association of Counties: www.idcounties.org
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare: www.healthandwelfare.idaho.gov
Idaho Legislature (including Idaho Codes) www.legislature.idaho.gov
Idaho Secretary of State: www.idsos.state.id.us
Idaho Transportation Department: www.itd.idaho.gov
Jobs at Ada County: www.adanet.com/jobs
Jobs in the Treasure Valley: labor.idaho.gov/idl/JobSeekers/JobSearch/tabid/661/Default.aspx
Southwest District Health Department: www.publichealthidaho.com/default.asp
Ada County Question & Answer Guide
Ada County
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of frequently asked questions broken into categories of Marriage/Divorce Records and Other Information, Public Records, Property Assessments/Taxes, Courts, Elections, General Information and Quick Contacts. Click on the question to be directed to its answer. If you need additional assistance, use the phone sheet below to contact the specific department.
**NEW** Ada County's "Question & Answer Guide" has just been posted to our Web site. The publication was designed to give you a convenient way to quickly find answers to your commonly asked questions. Click here to explore the publication and learn about Ada County and the diversity of services and programs we provide!
Marriage/Divorce Records And Other Information
Public Records And Other Documents:
Property Assessment, Taxes And Related Information
Courts
Elections
General Ada County Information
Quick Contacts/Facts
How can I obtain or get a copy of my marriage license, divorce papers, or other county documents like court records or open meeting minutes?
You may obtain these records by filing a Public Records Request. Idaho Code 9-339 allows the public to review or copy public documents. Be as specific as you can in filling out your form before you return it to the appropriate department. Click here to find public records request forms. For more information call 287-6840.
Top
Can we get married today? How much will it cost?
The Recorder’s Office – where you’ll need to go to obtain a marriage license – has a list of judges you can contact to make an appointment with. You can get married on the same day you obtain a license, or you can contact a judge to reserve a time in the future. A marriage license is $30. The Recorder’s Office only accepts cash. There is an ATM in the building. Click here to be directed to the Recorder’s Office’s Web page for more information.
Top
How do I file for divorce? How much will it cost?
Visit the Court Assistance Office’s Web site for more information. The Court Assistance Office has videos, brochures and pamphlets, and other valuable resources for people needing assistance in family law cases and other civil court matters.
Top
Where can I find public hearing agendas, daily meeting agendas, and hearing minutes for the Ada County Commissioners?
Public hearing agendas, daily meeting agendas, and official hearing minutes for all public meetings held by the Ada County Board of Commissioners are posted online and can be found on the Ada County Commissioner's section of this Web site. Click on the Agendas and Minutes link to review the most recent postings.
Top
Where can I find public hearing agendas and minutes for the Planning and Zoning Commission?
Public hearing agendas and official hearing minutes for the Ada County Planning and Zoning Commission are posted online and can be found on the Development Services section of this website. Click on the Agendas and Minutes link to review the most recent postings. Click on Hearing Dates for a list of all scheduled Planning and Zoning hearings.
Top
How do I file a public records request?
Idaho Code 9-339 allows the public to review or copy public documents. Click here for instructions on how to submit a Public Records Request Form and a link to department Public Records Request Forms.
Top
Does Ada County charge for public records requests?
Idaho Code establishes different fee scales for certain requested documents. Speak with the office or department handling the request. Fees are generally nominal, depending on the size of the request.
Top
How do I obtain a copy of an arrest report?
You can get this information either from the Ada County Sheriff’s Office or through the arresting agency. Click here to request arrest records from the Ada County Sheriff online. Or you can compete a written request form and mail or deliver it to the Ada County Sheriff’s Office Records division at 7200 Barrister, Boise, Idaho.
Top
Does Ada County keep records of birth or death certificates?
No. You’ll need to contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare – Bureau of Vital Records and Health statistics (208) 334-5988. Click here for information.
Top
How much is it to file a case with Small Claims Court?
Visit Idaho Legal Aid Services, Inc., for more information on filing a small claims case.
Top
Where do I go for my bankruptcy court?
Ada County does not deal with bankruptcy court. You’ll need to call 334-1074 – the federal bankruptcy courts office on 720 Park Center.
Top
What's the difference between a protection order and a restraining order?
A protective order is criminally enforceable, meaning the offender can be arrested and charged with a criminal offense for violating the order. But the police cannot arrest someone for violating a restraining order. You must go back to the judge who issued the restraining order to enforce it.
Top
Can I find the name of a specific property owner?
Property ownership information is public information, but because of privacy concerns Ada County does not publish this information online. If you are looking for ownership information on one or two parcels, call the Ada County Assessor’s office at (208) 287-7200. If your research is more extensive, come use the free public access computers at the Assessor’s Office directly East the Ada County Courthouse and Administration Building – 190 W. Front Street, Boise.
Top
How is my property assessed?
An Appraiser is required to visit your property once every five years to assess your property’s value. But according to Idaho law, your property must be assessed at market value each year. In the years between an appraiser’s visit, the Ada County Assessor compares current sales of properties similar to yours to determine your home’s market value –- or how much a potential buyer might reasonably pay for your property if it was for sale. Read more here.
Top
How can I find property for sale under the tax deed process?
Ada County rarely has property on auction. Visit this page on the Treasurer’s Web site for more information.
Top
Who can I talk to regarding a lien against my property?
Contact the Ada County Treasurer’s Office at (208) 287-6800
Top
I have a question about my property taxes.
For any information regarding your property taxes, visit the Treasurer’s web site. Click here for more information.
Top
I need to pay a speeding ticket or a court fine. Where do I go?
Visit the Ada County Courthouse building at 200 W. Front Street. Clerks working at the counters in the lobby can take payments for infractions, payable misdemeanors, and payments for misdemeanor and felony cases with fine agreements.
Top
Who do I talk to about my court date?
You can call the Prosecuting Attorney’s office at (208) 287-7700 for assistance, or click here for a list of other phone numbers.
Top
Where do I vote? And where do I register to vote.
Click here to find your polling location. You can download a voter registration card here or Idaho allows same-day registration if you are new to the area or have recently moved. Simply bring a photo ID and a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government document that shows your name and address.
Top
How do I get an absentee ballot?
Click here to be directed to the Ada County elections department and download the absentee ballot request form.
Top
Where can I find information about Ada County demographics?
Information regarding Ada County demographics can be found on the homepage of this website, as well as by clicking on the About Ada County link in the navigation bar to the left. The link provided gives you the most recent U.S. Census information for Ada County as well as a map of the county and other interesting and useful information.
Top
Where can I find Ada County news releases and community announcements?
Ada County issues news releases several times a month. These news releases are posted on the Ada County homepage in the News Releases section. You may also access the news release archives by clicking on the link located in the navigation bar to the left.
Top
Which local media outlets do you provide Ada County news releases to?
The Ada County Public Information Office works with all television, radio, print, and some web-based media and information outlets. The list of primary media organizations receiving Ada County news releases includes:
Top
How much is it to park at the Courthouse?
Capital City Development Corporation - the agency controlling parking facilities at the Ada County Courthouse - charges $2.50 an hour for parking.
Top
I want to work for Ada County. How can I apply for a job?
You can subscribe to an email listserv announcing all open Ada County positions. Click here and subscribe to receive emails about all newly opened positions in Ada County. For more information about working for Ada County, visit the Administrative Services Web site.
Top
What holidays are county offices closed?
| |
New Year’s Day
|
Labor Day
|
| |
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
|
Columbus Day
|
| |
President’s Day
|
Veteran’s Day
|
| |
Memorial Day
|
Thanksgiving Day
|
| |
Independence Day
|
Christmas Day
|
The county will recognize a holiday on Friday if that holiday falls on a Saturday. Similarly, should a holiday fall on a Sunday, county offices will be closed on Monday.
Top
Where do I get a beer and wine license?
Click here for information on how to apply for a beer license, and here for a wine license. Licenses are valid for one year. Direct any questions to the Ada County Recorder’s Office: 208-287-6840
Top
Can I renew / get my driver's license at the Courthouse?
No. You have to renew a picture ID or driver’s license at 400 Benjamin Lane in Boise (located near the Boise Towne Square Mall just behind the Milwaukee Street Target Store). Click here for more information. Remember, on average you’ll find the least busy wait times in the mornings Tuesdays through Thursdays.
Top
Can I get a driver's manual at the Courthouse?
Ada County does not carry driver’s manuals at the Courthouse. Instead, visit 400 Benjamin Lane in Boise, or the Idaho Transportation Department at 3311 W. State Street in Boise.
Top
I have a school project, where can I get more information about Ada County and its government?
Ada County has compiled a slate of documents and brochures you are welcome to use for a school project. See what we’ve collected by clicking here.
Top
What publications does Ada County produce?
See for yourself! Ada County keeps a library of its special publications and brochures here.
Top
I’m looking for a phone number…
Here’s our phone book!
Top
Helpful Links:
Google:www.google.com
Dex Online: www.dexonline.com
Ada County Highway District: www.achd.ada.id.us
Better Business Bureau: www.boise.bbb.org
City of Boise: www.cityofboise.org
City of Eagle: www.cityofeagle.com
Garden City: www.gardencityidaho.govoffice.com
City of Kuna: www.cityofkuna.com
City of Meridian: www.meridiancity.org/home/index.asp
City of Star: http://staridaho.org/
Idaho Association of Cities: www.idahocities.org
State of Idaho: www.idaho.gov
Idaho Association of Counties: www.idcounties.org
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare: www.healthandwelfare.idaho.gov
Idaho Legislature (including Idaho Codes) www.legislature.idaho.gov
Idaho Secretary of State: www.idsos.state.id.us
Idaho Transportation Department: www.itd.idaho.gov
Jobs at Ada County: www.adanet.com/jobs
Jobs in the Treasure Valley: labor.idaho.gov/idl/JobSeekers/JobSearch/tabid/661/Default.aspx
Southwest District Health Department: www.publichealthidaho.com/default.asp
Ada County Question & Answer Guide