Fire Marshal Issues Stop Work Order on Permitted Housing Project Amid Hydrant Dispute

The Kootenai County Board of County Commissioners meeting on August 28, 2025, highlighted a significant dispute between the fire marshal and the community development department regarding a stop work order on a permitted residential project. The fire marshal's order stems from concerns over fire hydrant requirements, which the community development director believes may be misinterpreted.

During the meeting, the community development director expressed frustration over the halt in inspections and project progress due to the fire marshal's insistence on hydrants, particularly when the property is serviced by a water district capable of providing them. The director raised questions about whether similar restrictions would apply to homes in areas without water districts, suggesting inconsistencies in the fire marshal's approach.

Craig Davidson, from the community development department, elaborated on the review process for building permits, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with various agencies, including the fire district. He noted that while conditions for projects are typically outlined upfront, challenges arise when specific requirements, such as hydrants, are not clearly stated for individual parcels. This lack of clarity can lead to complications, especially if a project is at risk of being "red tagged" by the fire district, which would prevent further construction.

The discussion underscored the potential for legal ramifications if the situation is not resolved, as the fire code may take precedence over building codes. The community development team aims to keep projects moving forward while adhering to safety regulations, but the current conflict poses a significant hurdle.

As the meeting concluded, the board acknowledged the complexities involved and the need for further dialogue between the fire marshal and community development to clarify requirements and avoid future disputes. The outcome of this situation could have broader implications for building regulations and community safety in Kootenai County.