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Street Naming and Addressing

A standardized system of street names and addresses is vital for the efficient delivery of public services, especially 911 emergency services, and all jurisdictions in Ada County require that street names and addresses be approved before use. The Ada County Assessor’s Land Records Division plays an important role in the process by administering the Ada County Street Naming and Addressing Ordinance as well as managing street naming and addressing for other jurisdictions in the county through joint powers agreements.

Street Naming

The Ada County Assessor’s Land Records Division manages street naming for all jurisdictions in Ada County. Each jurisdiction has its own standards and procedures for street naming, but review of all applications is administered by the Land Records Division.

Use the guide and application below if you wish to apply to name a new street or change the name of an existing street:

For existing or reserved streets in Ada County.

Completed street name evaluations used by engineers, surveyors, developers and planning departments.

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Addressing

The Ada County Assessor’s Land Records Division manages addressing for unincorporated Ada County, except in the Boise City area of impact, and for the cities of Eagle, Star, Garden City, and Kuna. Addresses for new subdivisions and condominium developments are assigned by staff after the final plat is recorded. For other instances where address assignment is necessary, such as during the building permit process, property owners should contact the Land Records Division and request an address.

The Ada County addressing standards are located in Chapter 2-1 of Ada County Code, and you can refer to the following frequently asked questions to learn more about the addressing process

Frequently Asked Questions

How do address numbers get assigned

Four address grids overlay the county. Each grid has a central point where north, south, east and west addresses start at zero and get larger as you work your way  outwards. Address numbers are assigned based on the address grid in which they are located.

After the final plat is recorded for a development, the plat is routed to the Addressing Technician for the assignment of addresses. New lots are assigned sequential numbers based on their location in the grid. New addresses are transmitted to various public agencies including the United States Postal Services, the Ada County Sheriff’s Dispatch Office, etc.

Why did my address change?

Ada County does not take such actions lightly and such decisions are based purely on health and safety considerations.  Please remember that this is being done to protect your health and safety and that of your neighbors.  There could be several reasons why your address changed. You should have received a Change of Address Notification in the mail. Refer to your letter for the specific reason that your address was change

Some reasons could include the following:

  • Your address is out of sequence with your surrounding neighbors.
  • Your address is off of a main road while your property takes access from an approved private road.
  • Your address is an even number when it should be odd or vice versa.

Do I need to notify agencies of my address change?

The Assessor’s Office will notify several public agencies regarding your address change, including emergency services.  Refer to your Change of Address Notification for a complete list. We suggest that you notify any banks, creditors,  periodicals and other persons of your new address.

What are the related expenses and fees for my address change?

Per Ada County Code 2-1-16 a fee may be charged for street naming, address assignments, variances and/or appeals. Fees shall be set by resolution of the board. (Ord. 853, 3-22-2016)

How do I post my address?

In order for emergency personal to find you they must be able to read your address number. Your address must be posted to be clearly visible from the street. The numbers must be at least four inches (4”) in height and must contrast with their background.

Can I appeal my address change?

Any person may appeal the decision of the County Assessor within thirty (30) days of the decision being made. See
section 2-1-11 of the Ada County Code for further information.

Additional Information

If you need assistance or have questions about street naming or addressing, please contact the county addressing technician

Email:  [email protected]

Phone:  208-287-7273