What a subdivision bond is
Cities and counties often require a developer to bond the public improvements in a new subdivision or site plan, like streets, sidewalks, storm drains, sewer and water lines, before they approve the final map or permits. The bond guarantees the improvements are built to the agency's standards.
In Idaho
In Idaho, cities and counties set subdivision improvement guarantees in their own subdivision codes. For example, the City of Arco lets a developer post a surety bond of 110% of the estimated cost of required public improvements before the final plat.
You need this bond if you're
- A developer or subdivider recording a final map
- A builder with a site plan that includes public improvements
- A contractor building improvements under a developer agreement
- An owner required to bond grading or erosion control
What the surety looks at
The project, the engineer's cost estimate for the improvements and the developer's finances. Larger projects need financial statements.