Why Idaho Cities & Counties Must Act Before July 1, 2025 to Protect Local Control Over Wireless Infrastructure
On April 3, 2025, the Idaho Legislature passed House Bill H-180, which significantly limits local authority over wireless “Cell Tower” infrastructure. Beginning July 1, 2025, cities and counties will be forced to automatically approve wireless applications that meet current zoning, even if those applications negatively impact neighborhoods. The bill also imposes strict 30- and 60-day shot clock deadlines, removing the ability of planning departments to adequately review and respond to wireless proposals.
To protect our communities, Idaho cities and counties must urgently adopt updated wireless ordinances that provide clear standards, require proof of necessity, and establish public safeguards—before H-180 goes into effect.
That’s why it’s urgent for every Idaho city and county to adopt a modern, legally sound wireless ordinance before the July 1 deadline.
One proven example is the Dalton Gardens Wireless Ordinance, crafted with the help of Idaho land-use attorney Norman Semanko and nationally recognized wireless attorney Andrew Campanelli.
Key Reasons to Adopt a Wireless Ordinance Similar to Dalton Gardens:
Preserves Local Control
H-180 strips cities and counties of their ability to delay or deny wireless applications—even when residents object. A strong, up-to-date ordinance ensures your community retains meaningful input and oversight.Stronger Small Cell Safeguards
Prevents unnecessary antenna installations in residential areas and limits the over-saturation of small cell infrastructure on light poles and public rights-of-way.Requires Proof of Necessity
Wireless providers must demonstrate actual coverage gaps—not just projected growth—before new towers or antennas are approved.Encourages "Fiber First" Approach
Prioritizes wired broadband (fiber optic cable) as a faster, safer, and more reliable alternative before approving wireless installations.Improves Aesthetic & Safety Standards
Ensures wireless infrastructure fits the look and feel of the community while following strict safety and environmental regulations.Legally Defensible
Dalton Gardens invested in top federal and Idaho legal experts to ensure their ordinance can withstand industry challenges and comply with all laws.Protects Public Health & Safety
A growing body of scientific research and personal testimony links high-powered RF radiation to health issues. (See: “Cell Towers in Eagle Idaho Suspect in AFib Injuries to Local Residents”)Prevents Misuse of Public Fiber Infrastructure
Safeguards hardwired municipal fiber from being leased or sold to wireless providers who may use it to deploy small cell antennas in ways not originally intended.
Action Steps
Schedule a Zoom meeting with city and county leaders (planning & zoning, city council, mayor, commissioners) and attorney Andrew Campanelli for Q&A.
Timeframe: 7 days +/- (Needs to happen this week)
Cost: $0Have Mr. Campanelli draft a custom wireless ordinance for our city or county, modeled after Dalton Gardens.
Timeframe: 30 days +/-
Cost: $9,000 +/-Mr. Campanelli will coordinate with local Idaho land use attorney Norm Semanko as needed.
Cost: $1,000 +/-Mr Campanelli to present the draft ordnance at the next City Council or County Commissioner meeting for review and adoption.
This process must be completed before July 1, 2025, or Idaho municipalities risk permanently losing local authority over wireless infrastructure.
Reference Links
Ada County Wireless Code (Section 8-5-3-31)
Contact Information for Wireless Zoning Legal Support
Federal Wireless Attorney:
Andrew Campanelli
Campanelli & Associates, PLLC
Schedule a Zoom meeting with his assistant Caroline
📞 Phone: (516) 746-1600
✉️ Email: ajc@campanellipc.com
🌐 campanellipc.com
Idaho Land Use Attorney:
Norm Semanko
Parsons Behle & Latimer
🌐 parsonsbehle.com
Idahoans For Safe Technology:
Educational Videos from Andrew Campanelli
