(COEUR D’ALENE, ID) – Authorities will remove illegal buoys in Lake Coeur d’Alene and the Spokane River. In response to boaters coming too close to docks and shorelines, some waterfront property owners have placed unpermitted buoys in the water to mark the no wake area. This presents a danger to those recreating in the water.
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) and Kootenai County Parks and Waterways are asking for the public’s assistance in Kootenai County to help solve this problem.
Safety is the first priority of our all three agencies in regard to our local waterways and we are asking for a spirit of cooperation and consideration for others. Boaters, please follow local ordinances regarding wake zones, to help protect the property and beauty of the lakes and rivers. Property owners, please do not put out illegal buoys as they create a hazard by interfering with navigation.
Kootenai County ordinances create a no wake zone 200 feet from shore or structures on public waters in the county except for the Spokane River where it is 100 feet. Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office may issue citations with fines to boaters violating no wake zone ordinances.
In addition, the Water Sports Industry Association recommends staying at least 200 feet from shoreline, docks, and other structures.
Only governmental entities have the legal authority to put buoys in place, and the ones placed there by private individuals are illegal and present navigational hazards.
All non-permitted (illegal) buoys must be removed by October 15, 2025.