Official Government Website

Administrative Guidance Documents

Non-Administrative

Expand each section to find links to IDWR’s administrative guidance documents as defined by Executive Order 2020-02.

SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Adjudication1Adjudication Claims for New Water Right Applications

Guidance to assist claimants in filing a new water right application if, when assisting the customer, it becomes clear that the water use developed after the mandatory permit statue for the developed water source.
October 23, 2008 
Adjudication2Late Fees for Adjudication Claims

Requirements for assessing when late fees are applicable in connection with Idaho Code &sec; 42-1414(3).
October 23, 2008 
Adjudication3Extensions of Time to File Adjudication Claims

Request to file claim after filing deadline in adjudications other than SRBA
October 23, 2008 
Adjudication4Domestic and/or Stockwater Claims

Definitions that qualify claims that can file as domestic/stockwater
October 30, 2013 
Adjudication5Transfers

Accomplished transfer statute as it relates to a change in how a water right is used in the SRBA and NIA.
December 15, 2008 
Adjudication9Rejection of Claims

When a notice of claim may be rejected, and guidance for processing the rejected claim.
December 15, 2008 
Adjudication11Private and Diffused Waters

This memo defines private and diffused surface water and provides guidance to agents regarding discussions with landowners considering filing a claim for such waters.
August 31, 2009 
Adjudication12Multiple Sources on a Single Claim

Guidance for claiming multiple sources for a single delivery system on one claim
January 22, 2009 
Adjudication13Claim Fees for Recently Adjudicated Water Rights

Determine if fees required or exempt when water right is a part of a recent adjudication
May 16, 2016 
Adjudication13AFees for Claims Filed in Snake 02, Hurd Gulch, and Fosha Adjudications

Discussion regarding crediting fees paid for adjudication claims filed in Snake 02, Hurd Gulch, and Fosha Adjudications, to filing fees in the SRBA.
November 13, 2000 
Adjudication14Effect of Prior Decrees

Guidance to file a claim in a water system of a prior adjudication that claimant was not a joined party in the adjudication
January 22, 2009 
Adjudication15Preparing Domestic & Stockwater Claims for Data Entry

Procedure to review and data enter claims and whether claimant contact might be necessary for additional information
March 3, 2009 
Adjudication16CReviewing Claims for Changes Based on Accomplished Transfers, Enlargements, or Expansions

The accomplished transfer statute allows IDWR staff to recognize changes to certain elements of a water right depending on when those changes occurred. The enlargement statute authorizes enlargement of certain elements of a water right if the diversion rate is not increased. The expansion statue authorizes enlargement of certain elements of a water right in a critical ground water area if the diversion rate and volume are not increased.
January 17, 2012 
Adjudication17Deferral of Domestic and Stockwater Claims

In the SRBA and NIA, small domestic and stockwater claims can be deferred and filed on at a later date. This memo describes which water rights are eligible for deferral for each adjudication and the consequences of a decision to file (or not to file) a notice of claim.
March 3, 2009 
Adjudication18Changes in Address/Ownership

Requirements for changing address or ownership on adjudication claim records at various stages in the adjudication process.
December 26, 2014 
Adjudication19Filing Fees for Multiple Purpose Claims

Adjudication claim fees depend on the claimed use and the amount of water claimed. When multiple water uses are claimed, there is often a fee associated with each use claimed.
March 11, 2009 
Adjudication21Expansions in Critical Groundwater Areas

The expansion statue authorizes enlargement of certain elements of a water right in a critical groundwater area depending on when that enlargement took place, and if the diversion rate and volume are not increased.
March 18, 2009 
Adjudication22Notice of Appearance by Attorney

Guidance on acceptable documentation for a notice of appearance as well as sending communication in connection with a claim when the claimant is represented by an attorney
March 18, 2009 
Adjudication23Effect of Mandatory Permit Statutes

Discussion of the mandatory permit statute for groundwater and surface water and guidance how to process a claim with a priority date that is in violation of the mandatory permit statute
September 4, 2013 
Adjudication25Refund Policy

Discussion around when a refund for claim fees can or cannot be processed
April 13, 2009 
Adjudication26Data Entry Trail for Splitting or Combining Existing Water Rights

Process for documenting the splitting and combining adjudication records
April 13, 2009 
Adjudication28Exceptions Received Prior to the Filing of the Director’s Report

An exception is information received that is contrary to a claim and how that information should be addressed
April 20, 2009 
Adjudication30Point of Diversion: 10 Acre Tract

Adjudication recommendations will only describe the point of diversion location to the 10-acre track if it has been determined in a previous administrative action
April 20, 2009 
Adjudication31Rate of Flow and Volume for Water Rights with Source of Groundwater

Procedures for determining rates of flow, including theoretical calculations. Appendix 1 is a flow chart to determine if a flow measurement is required.
November 1, 1990May 7, 1991
Adjudication32BAdding Condition Codes to Adjudication Recommendations

The Department uses conditions to further define the elements of water rights. This memo serves as a guide for the use of standard conditions and for the drafting of specific conditions to fit unique circumstances.
August 9, 2013 
Adjudication33Transfer Application Processing & SRBA Claim Amendments

Provides direction for amending adjudication claims when a transfer has been filed.
June 3, 1991 
Adjudication34Diversion Volumes in Director’s Reports

Guidance for recommending diversion volumes for ground water and exceptions.
October 2, 2002 
Adjudication36Water Use for Dairies

Methods for quantifying the diversion rate and volume for dairies including consumptive use.
May 12, 1992 
Adjudication39Standards for Irrigation Consumptive Use Requirements, Irrigation Field Headgate Requirements, and Irrigation Season of Use

IDWR standard irrigation consumptive use requirements, irrigation field headgate requirements, and standard irrigation season of use maps.
April 27, 1992October 12, 1999
Adjudication40ANotice of Error Procedure

Procedures for addressing Notice of Error for the preliminary Director’s Report.
March 2, 2015 
Adjudication41Finality of Administrative Decisions for Licenses and Transfers

Guidance for recommending a claim differently than an existing license or a transfer.
July 7, 2009 
Adjudication42Irrigation Diversion Rate Calculations – Peak Consumptive Use

Method of estimating peak consumptive use rates. Includes references to the Hubble workbook.
May 5, 1995 
Adjudication43Irrigation Diversion Rate Calculations – Weighted Averages

Weighted averages for Irrigation Diversion Rate calculations.
July 27, 1995 
Adjudication44Irrigation Diversion Rate for Turf Grass in Public Areas

Irrigation rates for grass in public areas such as a golf course; rate calculations for non-standard diversion.
August 15, 1996 
Adjudication45Corrections to Partial Decrees

Procedures for correcting both clerical errors and other elements of the partial decr
August 31, 2009 
Adjudication46Claims For Purposes of Use other than Wildlife based upon “D-Permits”

D-permits are limited to stockwater use only. However, other uses described on the D-permit might be eligible to be recommended as rights based on beneficial use.
March 1, 2002 
Adjudication47Accomplished Transfers and Enlargements in Basin 74

Discussion supporting that the accomplished transfer statue is applicable to rights decreed in the Lemhi Basin Adjudication
February 7, 2000 
Adjudication48Guidance for Recommendations in Basin 43

IDWR cannot recognize a change in the point of diversion on the Raft River to a well head as an accomplished transfer. However, if the non-use of the Raft River source is due to unavailability of water, IDWR can make a recommendation in the SRBA for a Raft River water right even though it has not been used for many years.
December 29, 2000 
Adjudication49Adjudication Claims Tolling Forfeiture and/or Fish Propagation Facility Volume

Summary of a decision by the SRBA court that, 1) filing a claim on a particular water right tolls forfeiture, and 2) the facility volume is not an element of a water right for fish propagation.
March 24, 2000 
Adjudication50Descriptions of Places of Use

IDWR will ensure place of use descriptions for water rights include spatial and tabular data, along with applicable conditions.
December 13, 2004March 18, 2010
Adjudication51Daily Mail Review Protocol

Guidelines intended to provide a uniform method to deal with the daily scanned mail and ensure that the Adjudication records on IDWR’s database are consistent with mail received from the SRBA court
December 2, 2002 
Adjudication52Document Repository Requirements

IDWR’s regional offices maintain copies of objections, responses, and supporting documents for all water rights reported in that region (electronically or in paper copies). The documents are to be available for inspection and copying during normal business hours.
June 30, 2004 
Adjudication53Adjudication Recommendations for Out-of-State Diversions or Places of Use

When claims are filed for an out-of-state diversion with place of use in Idaho, IDWR will prepare recommendations for all elements of the water right.
October 3, 2005 
Adjudication54Permitting Requirements for Low-Temperature Geothermal Wells Used for Domestic Purposes

Requirements for filing an application for permit from a low-temperature geothermal well for domestic purposes.
August 5, 2008February 26, 2010
Adjudication57Determining Place of Use where Decree or License is Indeterminate

Description of the process for determining and recommending the place of use for decrees or licenses where ether number foot acres per quarter-quarter is not described.
October 20, 2011 
Adjudication58Diversion Rates for de minimis Stockwater Rights

Guidance for recommending the diversion rates for diverted and non-diverted stockwater uses.
November 6, 2011 
Adjudication60Mining Exception to Forfeiture


Guidance on evaluating the mining exception to forfeiture when making recommendations.
March 2, 2015 
Adjudication61Proof of Priority for Deferrable De Minimis Claims

Guidance to IDWR staff members considering whether to request additional information to support a claimed priority date for deferrable de minimis domestic and/or stockwater claims.
August 14, 2020April 23, 2021
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Application Processing3Annual Use of Water for Stock Water Purposes

Rate and volume chart for range and dairy cattle including rate and volume formulas per head.
April 7, 1975 
Application Processing6Significant Figures for Numeric Values

Rate of flow, volume, and area standards for applications, advertising, licensing, transfers and orders.
May 12, 1975January 31, 2018
Application Processing7Policy Regarding Supplemental Filings

Permits authorizing > 0.02 cfs/acre will be denied but supplemental may be approved with combined use conditions.
June 23, 1975 
Application Processing8Water Right Applications and Claims

Procedure for receiving applications and claims with > 1 point of diversion with separate systems vs > 1 point of diversion on one system.
June 23, 1975May 2, 1980
Application Processing9Changes to Water Right Applications

Procedure for amending/correcting an application for permit or any other application. Note: The department never should write on an application without the applicant’s initials.
June 23, 1975January 12, 2000
Application Processing10Right-of-Way Across the Land of Another

Permit processing when the point of diversion is not on applicant’s land and conditions that apply.
June 23, 1975August 4, 1975
Application Processing13Boise River Appropriations

Hold on new appropriations upstream of Lucky Peak.
July 11, 1977January 22, 1980
Application Processing14Applications for Permit for Storage Rights

Guidance on how to fill out an application and advertising when storage is the use.
June 21, 1978 
Application Processing15Fish Propagation Applications for Water Rights

Additional information to submit includes construction plan, proof of possessory interest, and no diminished quality conditions. Includes trout hatchery water requirements graph.
August 7, 1979 
Application Processing17Acceptable Rates of Irrigation Flow for Small Acreages

Higher diversion rate when irrigation is ≤ 5 acres of 0.03 cfs per acre due to system requirements.
September 19, 1979 
Application Processing18Definition of “Municipal”


Uses include domestic, irrigation, stock, fire protection, recreation, commercial, and industrial. Describes who can apply for a municipal right.
November 5, 1979October 19, 2009
Application Processing20Big Wood River Appropriations

Hold on new appropriations upstream from Magic Reservoir. Includes map of Big Wood River Drainage.
January 22, 1980 
Application Processing22Definition of “Domestic”

Single household domestic includes stock and irrigation as long as it uses ≤13,000 gpd and general domestic is for multi-home water systems. Includes rate of flow vs # of houses graph.
June 4, 1980 
Application Processing23Rate of Flow for Heating Use

Methods for determining rate of flow for geothermal heating systems for initial permit review.
September 8, 1980September 28, 1992
Application Processing24Approval of Permits for Power Purposes

Processing guidance for regional and state offices, FERC and PUC requirements, and method for calculating reasonable rate of flow.
December 1, 1980June 19, 1986
Application Processing26Bear River Appropriations

Hold on new appropriations from Bear River and its tributaries.
February 1, 1982 
Application Processing27Appropriation of Water within Irrigation Districts & Canal Company Areas

No permits issued without permission in writing when using a constructed conveyance, and certain conditions apply when using a constructed drain or natural channel that may interfere with the canal company or irrigation district.
September 8, 1981 
Application Processing31In-Stream Stockwatering

The water user doesn’t have to file an application for in-stream stockwater. However, the only way to develop a new water right for a system where there is a diversion from a surface water source is by filing an application for permit.
September 6, 1984 
Application Processing36Acknowledgement of Submittal of an Application for Permit

Acknowledgement letter template for new application of permit received by mail—must be mailed in a timely manner.
January 24, 1986 
Application Processing37Voiding Applications for Permit with Respect to Idaho Code § 42-204


Adverse action terminology: continue, cancel, void, reject, deny, or partially approve. See memo for definitions and when to apply them.
March 10, 1986March 16, 1989
Application Processing39Process for Voiding, Canceling, or Rejecting Applications & Permits

It’s preferable to give applicant notice prior to the issuance of a final order in writing with a response time. See example letter within memo.
September 11, 1986 
Application Processing42Location of Springs – Legal Description

Must be described to the 10 acre tract except when it is not possible, then the point of diversion must be identified by landmarks and maps.
January 6, 1988 
Application Processing44Legal Advertisements

Instructs IDWR staff members to comply with Idaho Code § 60-113 by adding the regional office contact information to the legal notices for water right filings.
January 30, 1989 
Application Processing45Processing of Applications in the Non-Trust Water Area

Most DCMI and non-consumptive applications for permit can be processed without special conditions and irrigation will be on a case-by-case basis.
March 1, 1989 
Application Processing47Domestic and Stock water Filings in Critical Groundwater Areas and Groundwater Management Areas


Follow any existing management plan for GWMA or CGWMA; permits will be issued for § 42-111 domestic uses and permits will be issued in a GWMA for a community well but not in a CGWMA.
February 1, 1990September 17, 1992
Application Processing48Idaho Code § 42-203A, Conservation Criterion


Added for the purpose of helping to regulate the out of state diversion of Idaho’s water.
October 9, 1990 
Application Processing49Applications Proposing Direct Diversion from the Snake River for Irrigation Use Associated with Domestic Use

In trust water area, DCMI are exempt from restrictions. Note: Irrigation must be ≤ 3 acres and be associated with a domestic use.
December 31, 1990 
Application Processing51Rate of Flow and Volume for Water Rights with Source of Ground Water

When conducting a field exam there will be certain times when using a theoretical measurement is acceptable—use the flow chart within this memo. This memo also provides procedure for calculating rate of flow and formulas.
November 1, 1990May 7, 1991
Application Processing52Standards for Irrigation Consumptive Use Requirements, Irrigation Field Headgate Requirements, and Irrigation Season of Use

Maps and guidelines on standard season; use the standard regardless of what’s on the application for permit. When dealing with a transfer, use what was decreed or licensed—can use condition to include new standard.
April 27, 1992October 12, 1999
Application Processing58Multiple Sources on One Application for Permit

There should only be one source per application unless the systems are physically connected.
August 2, 1993 
Application Processing59Processing of Applications to Appropriate Water in the Lower Boise River Basin


Surface water upstream of Star Bridge will be denied or require mitigation. Groundwater shallower than 200 ft in designated area will be held (see map and exceptions). Development of Boise Front GWMA and SE Boise GWMA.
June 20, 1996February 22, 2008
Application Processing60Irrigation Diversion Rate for Turf Grass in Public Areas

These may require higher diversion rate. To calculate irrigation diversion rate, divide diversion rate based on continuous operation by the ratio of actual hours of operation/day to 24 hrs/day.
August 15, 1996 
Application Processing61Water Right Filing Requirements for Industrial Waste Water Use and Treatment (Interim Policy)

Waste water treatment can be authorized under industrial use as long as it doesn’t exceed the current water right’s constraints. If treatment method is changed to land application for beneficial use a transfer must be filed to include the new use.
September 27, 1996 
Application Processing62Public Interest Consideration – Small Stream Appropriations

When new appropriation from a stream is requested, staff must get comments from IDFG. Public interest must be protected.
July 28, 1998 
Application Processing64Review of Applications for Permit on a State Protected River Reach or within a Minimum Stream Flow Reach

A copy of the application should be provided to the Water Planning Bureau for review and comment if the action will affect a MSF reach.
August 16, 1999 
Application Processing65Diversions from State Protected River Reaches

All applications on a protected stream reach need to be conditioned to avoid prohibitions defined in the Comprehensive State Water Plan.
January 24, 2000 
Application Processing66Guidelines for Calculating Filing Fees for Applications for Permit and Applications for Transfer

How to calculate filing fees for certain categories to ensure consistency.
January 2, 2001October 18, 2017
Application Processing67Permitting Requirements for Ponds

Maximum Daily Water Use for Domestic Purposes

Water right required when water is diverted and/or when there is a beneficial use of water. This applies to the following: diffused surface water, incidental ponds, distribution ponds, wastewater treatment, and natural ponds. Guidance is provided for evaluation of the above and also domestic exemption.
February 28, 2003 
Application Processing68Conditional Protest Withdrawal for Resolution of a Contested Application

If protest withdrawal proposes conditions the department must determine they are appropriate. If they are unacceptable a letter of explanation must be sent, if they are acceptable then an acknowledgment of withdrawal should be made.
July 29, 2003 
Application Processing69Permitting Requirements for Low-Temperature Geothermal Wells Used for Domestic Purposes

Requirements for filing an application for permit from a low-temperature geothermal well for domestic purposes.
August 5, 2008February 26, 2010
Application Processing70Partial Decrees for Wild & Scenic River Water Rights, Stipulation for Settlement of Wild & Scenic River Dispute

Subordination provisions, partial decree provisions, permitting and licensing in Wild & Scenic watersheds, administration and regulation
October 30, 2009 
Application Processing71Water Rights Dedicated for Mitigation Protected from Forfeiture


Scenarios where mitigation right will not be forfeited: change in use of right to ground water recharge, mitigating a transfer, permit, or exchange by non-use, release of storage water, or water to be left in a ditch or canal.
May 3, 2010November 4, 2015
Application Processing72Evaluation of Mitigation Plans for Water Right Permits

Mitigation plan is necessary when an area is closed to new appropriations or where water supply isn’t sufficient. The applicant must submit a depletion analysis, type of plan (I,II), source of mitigation water, quantity, method & location of delivery, proof that confirms validity of right and ownership documentation.
May 3, 2010November 4, 2015
Application Processing73Utilization of the 24-Hour Fill Allowance for Impoundments

Statement of the policy and practical implementation of the 24-hour fill allowance that historically been used by the Department.
April 18, 2013 
Application Processing74RAFN Municipal Water Right Handbook

Recommendations for the Processing of Reasonably Anticipated Future Needs (RAFN) Municipal Water Rights at the Time of Application, Licensing, and Transfer
November 13, 2013October 1, 2021
Application Processing75Term Limits for Hydropower Use

General guidance regarding lengths of terms for hydropower rights and how the terms will be stated in the conditions of future water rights for power generation.
January 13, 2014 
Application Processing76Seepage Loss Standards for Ponds and Reservoirs

Pond Loss Calculation

Memo establishing guidelines for reviewing seepage losses from ponds and reservoirs to ensure that water rights for storage promote efficiency by meeting a reasonable conservation standard.
March 5, 2015 
Application Processing77Processing Applications to Appropriate Trust Water

Memo establishing practices for processing applications to appropriate trust water flows.
July 18, 2019 
Application Processing78Online Submittals of Applications for Permit to Appropriate Water

Memo interpreting statutes and rules to authorize the filing of an Application in digital form.
July 20, 2021
Application Processing79“Surface Water First” Requirements for New Ground Water Irrigation Appropriations

This memorandum directs Department staff to implement the “surface water first” requirements of Idaho Code 42-204A.
July 3, 2023
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Claims1Acceptable Form for Claim to a Water Right

Guidance to IDWR staff members for determining when a statutory claim filed pursuant to Idaho Code § 42-243 is acceptable for filing.
June 1, 1983
Claims3Legal Advertisements

Instructs IDWR staff members to comply with Idaho Code § 60-113 by adding the regional office contact information to the legal notices for water right filings.
January 30, 1989
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Dam Safety1Dam Safety Program Procedures


Instructions and guidelines for state and region office engineers assigned dam safety duties.
July 25, 1975May 11, 2018
Dam Safety2Review of Applications for Permit on a State Protected River Reach or within a Minimum Stream Flow Reach

A copy of the application should be provided to the Water Planning Bureau for review and comment if the action will affect a MSF reach.
August 16, 1999 
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Drilling Permits2Proof B/U and Drilling Permit Considerations


Guidance to staff regarding compliance with drilling permit and well report requirements when reviewing groundwater right permit proof of beneficial use or extension of time.
December 19, 1988 
Drilling Permits4Drilling Permits Approvals

Guidance to staff clarifying that drilling permits for domestic wells should be limited to no more than 8 inches unless the driller or owner can justify a larger diameter based on guidance criteria.
December 1, 1994December 20, 2013
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Water Right Licensing1Municipal Licensing Procedures


Rate of diversion recommended should be the capacity of the system unless it exceeds the permitted amount. Fire protection and municipal uses don’t have a volume component.
April 7, 1975October 19, 2009
Water Right Licensing3Licensing Examinations

If measuring device is required and not yet installed, cannot issue a license. Files need to be kept at regional office until the permit holder complies or requests for the removal of condition.
July 13, 1983 
Water Right Licensing4Annual Volume Usage in U.S. Forest Service Campgrounds

Standard single in-house domestic of 0.6 af/season should be used (see equation in memo).
January 26, 1987 
Water Right Licensing5Exam Fee Single Family Domestic Use, Stockwater, & Other Small Uses


Idaho Code § 42-111 domestic use from a groundwater source does not require a beneficial use examination fee.
April 7, 1987November 1, 1991
Water Right Licensing7Claim to Water Right Overlaps

When water rights share places of use or points of diversion, IDWR staff members should put combined limit conditions on the water right licenses to avoid enlargement of use.
December 27, 1989 
Water Right Licensing9Standards for Irrigation Consumptive Use Requirements, Irrigation Field Headgate Requirements, and Irrigation Season of Use

Maps and guidelines on standard season; use the standard regardless of what’s on the application for permit. When dealing with a transfer, use what was decreed or licensed—can use condition to include new standard.
April 27, 1992October 12, 1999
Water Right Licensing10Verification of Place of Use During Beneficial Use Exams

Aerial photo is required for a field exam for evidence of beneficial use. Photos are strongly recommended as well.
March 11, 1996 
Water Right Licensing11Adjudication Claims Tolling Forfeiture and/or Fish Propagation Facility Volume

For fish propagation rights, do not include facility volume on permit or license and after claim is filed in SRBA, period of non-use should be considered.
March 24, 2000 
Water Right Licensing12Utilization of the 24-Hour Fill Allowance for Impoundments

Statement of the policy and practical implementation of the 24-hour fill allowance that historically been used by the Department.
April 18, 2013 
Water Right Licensing13RAFN Municipal Water Right Handbook

Recommendations for the Processing of Reasonably Anticipated Future Needs (RAFN) Municipal Water Rights at the Time of Application, Licensing, and Transfer.
November 13, 2013October 1, 2021
Water Right Licensing14Term Limits for Hydropower Use

General guidance regarding lengths of terms for hydropower rights and how the terms will be stated in the conditions of future water rights for power generation.
January 13, 2014 
Water Right Licensing15Seepage Loss Standards for Ponds and Reservoirs

Pond Loss Calculation

Memo establishing guidelines for reviewing seepage losses from ponds and reservoirs to ensure that water rights for storage promote efficiency by meeting a reasonable conservation standard.
March 5, 2015 
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Miscellaneous1Data Processing

IDWR must have a department-wide, comprehensive plan for acquiring computer hardware.
December 31, 1987 
Miscellaneous2Delegation of Duties and Responsibilities

Delegates signature authority for IDWR program duties to bureau chiefs, regional managers, section managers, and other designated staff.
June 15, 2010 
Miscellaneous3State Office Front Desk Relief Coverage

Describes how IDWR staff members will assume reception duties when the regular receptionist is not available due to vacation leave, illness, lunch break, and so forth.
February 18, 1988June 27, 2023
Miscellaneous5FERC Routing

Implements an internal routing process for notices pertaining to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) notices.
January 27, 1989 
Miscellaneous6Purchasing Policies and Procedures

Centralizes IDWR purchasing duties.
September 11, 1989 
Miscellaneous7Injection Well Permitting, Division of Responsibilities

For Class V injection wells, divides the review and processing functions between IDWR’s state office and regional offices.
March 18, 1991 
Miscellaneous8Low-Temperature Geothermal Wells

Assigns to the Water Management Division Administrator the responsibility for deciding to grant exceptions to the requirement that low-temperature geothermal resources be used primarily for their heat value. Also assigns to the Division Administrator the final decision authority for removal of a bond for a low-temperature geothermal well.
April 29, 1991 
Miscellaneous9Firearms, Badges, and Threatening Situations

None of IDWR’s employees are authorized to carry or use a firearm on the job.
July 31, 1992 
Miscellaneous10Indexing of Precedential Agency Orders

Instructs IDWR staff members to index precedential agency orders so they are available for public use and for reference by IDWR hearing officers.
July 21, 1993 
Miscellaneous11Availability of Agency Guidance Documents

Instructs IDWR staff members to comply with Idaho Code § 67-5250 by making agency guidance documents available for public inspection.
May 9, 1995 
Miscellaneous12Entry Upon Private Land for Routine Investigations and Data Collection

Instructs IDWR staff members to make reasonable efforts to obtain the permission of the land owner before entering private land.
September 16, 2003October 20, 2020
Miscellaneous13Guidelines for Communication with Outside Attorneys

Instructs IDWR staff members to avoid discussing matters that are currently in litigation and to seek advice from a Deputy Attorney General before discussing matters that are likely to be litigated.
April 25, 2005 
Miscellaneous14Water Level Measurement Equipment Disinfection Procedure

Instructs IDWR staff members to avoid source water contamination by disinfecting water level measuring equipment.
September 7, 2006 
Miscellaneous15Multiple Pumps in a Single Well for Domestic Purposes

IDWR will interpret an application for drilling permit to construct a
single well that will house separate pumps and associated separate delivery systems as an application to drill a well for domestic purposes provided each individual pump and delivery system satisfies the limitations of Idaho Code § 42-111.
June 4, 2007 
Miscellaneous16Crop consumptive Use Data for Water Right Review

Instructs IDWR staff members to stop accepting consumptive use estimations based on the 1983 Allen and Brockway data and instead to use the 2006 Allen and Robison data, which superseded the 1983 data, or other reasonable water use data.
February 11, 2008 
Miscellaneous17Water Administration Division Reorganization

Instructs adjudication staff members in the regional offices to report up through the regional managers rather than through the Adjudication Bureau Chief.
June 25, 2008 
Miscellaneous18Temporary Delegation of Division Administrator(s) Duties Described in IDWR Policy Documents

Because the division administrator position will remain vacant, delegates decision-making authority to bureau chiefs and regional managers.
June 16, 2010 
Miscellaneous19Processing Exempt Hydropower Uses in Canals or Conduits

Establishes IDWR internal procedures for processing notices submitted pursuant to Idaho Code § 42-201(9), which exempts incidental power generation in a canal or conduit from the water right filing requirement.
June 23, 2016 
Miscellaneous20Guidance and procedures for self-supported Information Technology Services

Identifies IDWR procedures for IT tasks following the centralization of IT personnel to the state Office of Information Technology Services.
December 14, 2020 
Miscellaneous21Code of Conduct for IDWR Hearing Officers

IDWR appointed Hearing Officers serve directly for the Director and are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the principles outlined in Misc. Memo No. 21.
September 30, 2021
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Multiple Programs1Descriptions of Places of Use

Guidance for displaying and changing spatial and tabular place of use descriptions for water rights with generally-described service areas. See Idaho Code § 42-219 and § 42-1411.
December 13, 2004March 18, 2010
Multiple Programs2Forfeiture Review Period

Addresses the timing questions that arise during forfeiture review by giving IDWR employees a simple, uniform way to calculate the period of non-use.
March 5, 2012 
Multiple Programs3Townhall Idaho Posting of Public Meetings

General guidance on posting Notice of Meeting to the Townhall Idaho pubic meetings website.
April 15, 2022
Multiple Programs4IDWR & IWRB Social Media Guidelines

General guidance for posting content to the IDWR and IWRB’s Social Media channels.
February 2, 2024
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Water Appropriation Permit Processing1Reinstatements and Extensions of Time

Upon showing of reasonable cause and within 60 days of notice, a reinstatement or extension will be granted.
April 7, 1975 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing2Priority to be Assigned to Permits When Proof is Due

The priority date will be reduced by the number of days the proof is late.
August 15, 1969 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing3Measuring Device Requirement and Removal


The order removing a measuring device must be signed by the Director or the Administrator
June 25, 1975April 4, 2012
Water Appropriation Permit Processing4Extensions of Time for Water Right Permits

Extensions will be returned to permit holder by the region or state office when there are deficiencies. All others will be sent to state office and will be processed and receipted when extension of time appears valid.
December 12, 1980 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing5Amendment of an Application for Permit or a Permit


Procedure for amending/correcting an application for permit or any other application. Note: the department never should write on an application w/o the applicant’s initials and additional information should be requested in writing.
April 28, 1982January 12, 2000
Water Appropriation Permit Processing6Point of Diversion Description

Amendment is needed to change the tract a POD is in if it’s different from what’s on the permit. A transfer is needed when it’s a claim, license or decree even if they’re just adding a POD in same tract.
May 10, 1984 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing8Field Exams for State of Idaho, Dept. of Lands Permits


No on-site visit necessary—use agency records.
August 20, 1985November 7, 1995
Water Appropriation Permit Processing9Process for Voiding, Canceling, or Rejecting Applications and Permits

It’s preferable to give applicant notice prior to the issuance of a final order in writing with a response time. See example letter within memo.
September 11, 1986 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing10Permit Process 10 Repealed

Water Appropriation Permit Processing Memorandum No. 10 is repealed in response to the 2022 Legislature’s passage of Idaho Code § 55-616.

See Records Memo No. 9 in response to Idaho Code § 55-616.
December 1, 1988 Repealed June 27, 2022
Water Appropriation Permit Processing11Field Examinations for CRP Lands

Exams should be conducted on CRP lands even if the system is no longer operating.
February 1, 1989 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing12Proof of Beneficial Use and Drilling Permits Considerations



Before proof is acceptable compliance with drilling permit and well log filing requirements need to be checked.
December 19, 1988 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing13Legal Advertisements

Instructs IDWR staff members to comply with Idaho Code § 60-113 by adding the regional office contact information to the legal notices for water right filings.
January 30, 1989 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing16Rate of Flow and Volume for Water Rights with Source of Ground Water

When conducting a field exam there will be certain times when using a theoretical measurement is acceptable—use the flow chart within this memo. This memo also provides procedure for calculating rate of flow and formulas.
November 1, 1990May 7, 1991
Water Appropriation Permit Processing18Adjudication Claims Tolling Forfeiture and/or Fish Propagation Facility Volume

For fish propagation rights, do not include facility volume on permit or license and after claim is filed in SRBA, period of non-use should be considered.
March 24, 2000 
Water Appropriation Permit Processing19Guidelines for Calculating Filing Fees for Applications for Permit and Applications for Transfer

How to calculate filing fees for certain categories to ensure consistency.
January 2, 2001October 18, 2017
Water Appropriation Permit Processing20RAFN Municipal Water Right Handbook

Recommendations for the Processing of Reasonably Anticipated Future Needs (RAFN) Municipal Water Rights at the Time of Application, Licensing, and Transfer.
November 13, 2013October 1, 2021
Water Appropriation Permit Processing21Term Limits for Hydropower Use

General guidance regarding lengths of terms for hydropower rights and how the terms will be stated in the conditions of future water rights for power generation.
January 13, 2014 
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Records1Document Filing System


Establishes how documents will be organized in water right paper files.
April 21, 1975March 23, 2012
Records2Approval of Watermaster Reports; Certificates of Appointment of Watermasters, Flood Control District Commissions, and others; and Claim Review

Establishes IDWR practices for approving watermaster reports, issuing watermaster certificates of approval, and accepting claims filed pursuant to Idaho Code § 42-225(a).
June 23, 1975 
Records3Protests

Instructs IDWR staff members to inform protestants that if they are claiming a proposed appropriation will interfere with their water rights, they must identify the permits, licenses, or decreed rights, or establish the existence of constitutional rig.
June 23, 1975 
Records4Fees for Research or Computer Data Services


Establishes how IDWR calculates the fee it will charge pursuant to Idaho Code § 42-221(J) for research services.
July 14, 1980July 8, 2008
Records7Charges for Copies


Establishes the fees IDWR will charge for making copies of public records.
October 25, 1982August 19, 2011
Records9Processing Notices of Change in Water Right Ownership and Associated Updates to Water Rights Records

Guidance for the review and processing of notices to change water right ownership and for making associated updates to water right records.
August 5, 2008June 27, 2022
Records10Receiving Time-Sensitive Filings at the Salmon Field Office

Specific services provided by the Salmon Field Office.
December 5, 2016
Records11Scanning & Profiling Standards for Water Right Documents

Guidance for acceptable formats when scanning documents.
March 8, 2018
Records12Maintaining Records for CREP Agreements Not to Divert

Establishes IDWR’s record-keeping practices for the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to ensure compliance with federal law.
June 21, 2021
Records13 Procedures for Electronically Filed Documents

Establishes procedures the Department shall follow when it accepts or distributes email filings for all its business processes.
March 31, 2022
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Stream Channel Alterations8Stream Channel Alterations

Guidance to staff describing a standard format for drafting permits
February 26, 1991 
Stream Channel Alterations10REPEALED – Stream Channel Alteration Outside Agency CommentsSeptember 28, 1994Repealed February 27, 2024
Stream Channel Alterations14Enforcement Guidance and Procedures to Address the Unauthorized Alteration of Streams

Guidance to staff for investigating and resolving stream channel alterations conducted without a valid permit or required authorization
August 10, 2020 
Stream Channel Alterations15Stream Channel Alteration Permitting in the Wood River Valley

Guidance to staff for permitting stream channel alterations in the Wood River Valley.
April 19, 2021
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Water Right Transfer Processing7Sample Calculations for Change in Nature of Use

Table of consumptive use and consumptive irrigation requirements for quantitative evaluation to avoid expansion. Includes map, tables, and examples.
September 24, 1982October 29, 1984
Water Right Transfer Processing8Point of Diversion Description

Amendment is needed to change the tract a POD is in if it’s different from what’s on the permit. A transfer is needed when it’s a claim, license or decree even if they’re just adding a POD in same tract.
May 10, 1984 
Water Right Transfer Processing9Transfer of a Decreed Water Right

If a decree identifies a tract as the POU rather than a defined number of acres within the tract the applicant must provide an aerial photo from which the number of acres irrigation in tract can be determined.
August 7, 1984 
Water Right Transfer Processing11Legal Advertisements

Adding the regional offices contact information to the legal notice to avoid confusion on the location of the application for permit/transfer.
January 30, 1989 
Water Right Transfer Processing13Transfers of a Water Right – Confirmation of Change

Changed authorized by transfer need to be accomplished within 1 year. Department may verify through field exam.
October 9, 1990 
Water Right Transfer Processing14Transfer Approvals

In order to minimize opportunity that users can preclude the review of water rights for which transfers have recently been approved, a condition has been added as a standard to transfers that are in the SRBA.
January 31, 1991 
Water Right Transfer Processing15Transfer Application Processing & SRBA Claim Amendments

When a statutory right is changed by an approved transfer, the claim must be amended. Each approved transfer will be treated as the departments notice of an amendment to the claim.
June 3, 1991 
Water Right Transfer Processing16Standards for Irrigation Consumptive Use Requirements, Irrigation Field Headgate Requirements, and Irrigation Season of Use

Maps and guidelines on standard season; use the standard regardless of what’s on the application for permit. When dealing with a transfer, use what was decreed or licensed—can use condition to include new standard.
April 27, 1992October 12, 1999
Water Right Transfer Processing18Implementation of § 42-222A, Idaho Code – Temporary Change Authority for Existing Water Rights

Guidance regarding temporary changes to water rights during drought conditions.
June 23, 1994May 14, 2014
Water Right Transfer Processing19Review of Applications for Permit on a State Protected River Reach or within a Minimum Stream Flow Reach

A copy of the application should be provided to the Water Planning Bureau for review and comment if the action will affect a MSF reach
August 16, 1999 
Water Right Transfer Processing20Changes to Water Right Applications

Procedure for amending/correcting an application for permit or any other application. Note: the department never should write on an application w/o the applicant’s initials and additional information should be requested in writing.
January 12, 2000 
Water Right Transfer Processing21Diversions from State Protected River Reaches

All applications on a protected stream reach need to be conditioned to avoid prohibitions defined in the Comprehensive State Water Plan
January 24, 2000 
Water Right Transfer Processing22Adjudication Claims Tolling Forfeiture and/or Fish Propagation Facility Volume

For fish propagation rights, do not include facility volume on permit or license and after claim is filed in SRBA, period of non-use should be considered.
March 24, 2000 
Water Right Transfer Processing23Guidelines for Calculating Filing Fees for Applications for Permit and Applications for Transfer

How to calculate filing fees for certain categories to ensure consistency.
January 2, 2001October 18, 2017
Water Right Transfer Processing24Transfer Processing Policies & Procedures

Guidance for evaluating if the proposed transfer would injure other water rights, cause enlargement, be of beneficial use, be in local public interest, be consistent with conservation of Idaho water resources, and impact the agriculture base of the local area. Also need to evaluate if the water right is valid and does the applicant have the authority to file.
October 30, 2002December 21, 2009
Water Right Transfer Processing25Conditional Protest Withdrawal for Resolution of a Contested Application

If protest withdrawal proposes conditions the department must determine they are appropriate. If they are unacceptable a letter of explanation must be sent, if they are acceptable then an acknowledgment of withdrawal should be made.
July 29, 2003 
Water Right Transfer Processing26Consumptive Use for Ponds

The annual volume of consumptive use associated with evaporation from ponds can be considered equivalent to the mean annual consumptive irrigation requirement for alfalfa hay.
February 23, 2004 
Water Right Transfer Processing27Water Rights Dedicated for Mitigation Protected from Forfeiture

Scenarios where mitigation right will not be forfeited: change in use of right to ground water recharge, mitigating a transfer, permit, or exchange by non-use, release of storage water, or water to be left in a ditch or canal.
May 3, 2010November 4, 2015
Water Right Transfer Processing28Utilization of the 24-Hour Fill Allowance for Impoundments

Statement of the policy and practical implementation of the 24-hour fill allowance that historically been used by the Department.
April 18, 2013 
Water Right Transfer Processing29RAFN Municipal Water Right Handbook

Recommendations for the Processing of Reasonably Anticipated Future Needs (RAFN) Municipal Water Rights at the Time of Application, Licensing, and Transfer.
November 13, 2013October 1, 2021
Water Right Transfer Processing30Seepage Loss Standards for Ponds and Reservoirs

Pond Loss Calculation

Memo establishing guidelines for reviewing seepage losses from ponds and reservoirs to ensure that water rights for storage promote efficiency by meeting a reasonable conservation standard.
March 5, 2015 
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Water Delivery2Irrigation Season

This memo serves as staff guidance regarding applicable season of use dates for old decreed water rights that lack such dates and have not been superseded by a partial decree in a recent general water rights adjudication.
June 18, 1992 
Water Delivery3Partial Decrees for Wild & Scenic River Water Rights, Stipulation for Settlement of Wild & Scenic River Dispute

This memorandum interprets language within the Wild & Scenic Rivers Agreement and the SRBA Wild & Scenic Water Rights partial decrees for purposes of recording, tracking, and administering water rights in the watersheds of the Wild & Scenic Water Rights
October 30, 2009 
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Water Supply Bank1Organizational Structure of the Water Supply Bank

Describes the roles of the Water Supply Bank Program Coordinator, the Water Allocation Bureau, and the local rental pool committees in administering the Water Supply Bank for the Water Resource Board.
March 14, 2014 
Water Supply Bank2Establishing Timeframes and Priorities for Receiving and Reviewing Rental Applications, Guidance on Rental Fee Refund Requests, and Guidance on Requests to Release Lease Contracts from the Board’s Bank

Instructs IDWR staff members to emphasize processing of Water Supply Bank rental applications during the November to April period so that most approvals can be completed by the beginning of the irrigation season. Adopts the practice of not accepting rental applications before November 1 of the year preceding the proposed use. Instructs IDWR staff regarding IWRB policy on refunds for canceled rentals. Implements the IWRB policy not to cancel leases while the water rights are being rented.
March 21, 2014 
Water Supply Bank3Seepage Loss Standards for Ponds and Reservoirs

Pond Loss Calculation

Memo establishing guidelines for reviewing seepage losses from ponds and reservoirs to ensure that water rights for storage promote efficiency by meeting a reasonable conservation standard.
March 5, 2015 
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Well Construction7Permitting Requirements for Low-Temperature Geothermal Wells Used for Domestic Purposes

Requirements for filing an application for permit from a low-temperature geothermal well for domestic purposes.
August 5, 2008February 26, 2010
Well Construction8Guidance for Groundwater Protection Program Well Inspections and Reporting

Staff guidance outlining program priorities to achieve consistent well drilling inspections and reporting that align with IDWR’s Strategic Plan.
May 13, 2013 
Well Construction9Guidance Regarding Decommissioning of Bore Holes Drilled for Collecting Soil or Rock Samples, Determining Geologic Properties or Mineral Mxploration

Guidance for decommissioning bore holes for geologic investigation or mineral exploration, including those that are exempt from drilling permit requirements.
January 22, 2015 
SubjectNo.TitleSignedUpdated
Well Drillers6Ground Water Protection Enforcement Guidance and Procedures Regarding Well
Construction, Well Driller Licensing, Injection Wells and Wells for Geothermal Resources


Guidance for investigation and resolving unlawful violations associated with the improper construction of water wells and geothermal wells, and non-compliance with well construction, well driller licensing and underground injection control rules and statutes.
November 20, 2007August 10, 2020
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