Some states are “open range” or a “fence out” states, meaning that a livestock owner does not have a legal duty to prevent animals from getting onto the roadway. But some state legislatures have enacted statutes known as "stock laws" that modify the common law (rules contained in court opinions written by judges) and prohibit owners from allowing animals to run at large.
Idaho is considered an 'open range' or a 'fence out' state, which traditionally means that livestock owners are not legally required to fence in their animals to prevent them from wandering onto roadways. However, the state has implemented certain 'stock laws' that can modify this general rule. In specific areas of the state, these laws require livestock owners to prevent their animals from running at large, which may include the responsibility to fence in their livestock. These areas are often designated by county or local ordinances. It is important for livestock owners in Idaho to be aware of the local regulations that apply to their property, as failure to comply with stock laws in designated areas could result in legal liability for damages caused by their animals.