Bolthole Index

Blaine County, Montana

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Blaine County, Montana

46Index Score / 100
#49 of 56 in Montana

Private homes and apartments with 4 or fewer units in unincorporated Blaine County, Montana are exempt from state building permits when they do not serve transient guests; covered non-exempt work goes through the State Building Codes Bureau12. County zoning is unconfirmed, but Chinook has city zoning; Blaine County Environmental Health administers the septic program, and county floodplain approval applies in regulated flood-hazard areas3456.

At a glance

Building permit
Private homes and apartments with 4 or fewer units are state-building-permit exempt unless they serve transient guests1
Zoning
Unconfirmed on unincorporated land; Chinook has city zoning34
Septic
Blaine County Environmental Health administers the Septic System Program; confirm the individual installation process57
RV or tiny home
Private-land occupancy rules are unconfirmed; ask Environmental Health and the Clerk and Recorder378
Owner-builder
Personal-use homeowner plumbing can qualify for a state plumbing-permit exemption; code compliance and inspections still apply910
Floodplain
A county permit is required before development in a regulated flood-hazard area6
County-road approach
The Road Department publishes an approach application11
Septic soils
Only 10.6% of soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field12

Who to call

Septic permits

Blaine County Environmental Health

Septic System Program, sanitary review of subdivisions, and well water consultation

(406) 357-3310

llowe@blainecounty-mt.gov

P.O. Box 576, Chinook, MT 59523

Floodplain permits

Blaine County Contract Floodplain Administrator

Floodplain permits for development in Special Flood Hazard Areas

(406) 443-3962

shigley@wwcengineering.com

1275 Maple Street, Suite F, Helena MT 59601

Roads & driveways

Blaine County Road Department

County roads, county right-of-way work, and approach applications

(406) 357-2840

llowe@blainecounty-mt.gov

Blaine County Courthouse, 420 Ohio St, Chinook, MT 59523

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Blaine County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

Do you need a building permit in Blaine County, Montana?

Private homes and apartments with 4 or fewer units in unincorporated Blaine County areas under state jurisdiction are exempt from state building permits unless they serve transient guests1. Farm and ranch buildings and private garages or storage buildings for the owner's own use outside a commercial enterprise also qualify for state exemptions2. Covered non-exempt new buildings, alterations, additions and repairs require a state building permit before construction2. A state building-permit exemption does not settle local requirements, so confirm the project with the State Building Codes Bureau and ask the Clerk and Recorder about applicable county requirements1.

Who issues building permits and inspections in Blaine County?

The Montana State Building Codes Bureau has building-code jurisdiction in Blaine County areas outside certified local programs; a permit exemption should not be read as an absence of applicable codes131. Submit construction plans and the Building Permit/Plan Review Application for covered work; the Bureau issues the building permit after review comments are resolved in writing and required fees are paid14. The plan-review fee is 35 percent of the Bureau-calculated building-permit fee, and both are due before issuance15. Inspections apply to projects requiring building, plumbing, electrical or mechanical permits, with certified local inspection programs applying where established16. For state building-permit inspections, the permit holder must notify the inspector when work is ready and provide access17.

Does Blaine County have zoning?

We could not confirm whether Blaine County has adopted zoning for unincorporated land; county subdivision regulations do not establish countywide zoning318. Inside Chinook, city zoning covers land within the corporate limits, while consent and approval for private sewer systems remain with the county sanitarian419. Ask the Clerk and Recorder about zoning applicable to an unincorporated parcel; minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage and building-height rules remain unconfirmed there3. Blaine County regulates subdivisions in its jurisdiction, with municipal review or joint approval also applying under the location conditions in the county regulations18.

How do septic permits work in Blaine County?

Blaine County Environmental Health administers the Septic System Program and sanitary review of subdivisions, while Montana DEQ remains involved in qualifying subdivision sanitation approvals520. We could not confirm the septic-permit application and inspection sequence for every individual installation, so ask Environmental Health before choosing a house site7. Only 10.6% of Blaine County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field12. Septic systems are prohibited in Blaine County floodplains; a building there that needs water and sewage facilities can proceed only with a community wastewater connection or sewage pumped outside the floodplain2122. In Chinook, the county sanitarian must consent to a private-sewer connection19.

Can you live in an RV, tiny home or owner-built home in Blaine County?

We could not confirm a Blaine County zoning rule answering long-term RV living or tiny-home occupancy on private land3. Ask the Clerk and Recorder about zoning approval and Environmental Health about septic requirements before relying on either use37. A tiny home may fit Montana's state building-permit exemption for a residential building with 4 or fewer dwelling units that does not serve transient guests, but that exemption does not establish where the home may be occupied13. Off-grid sanitation rules outside floodplain areas remain unconfirmed; in a floodplain, septic is prohibited and a building needing water and sewage must connect to a community wastewater system or pump sewage outside the floodplain2122. A homeowner doing plumbing personally for a personal-use residence that is neither speculative resale nor rental property can qualify for the state plumbing-permit exemption, but plumbing must meet the Uniform Plumbing Code and be inspected before covering910. Montana also exempts owners working on their own property from construction-contractor registration, subject to prompt-sale restrictions; that exemption concerns registration rather than project approvals23.

What are the steps to building a home in Blaine County?

  1. Before a land transfer or subdivision filing, contact the Blaine County Sanitarian and Planner; a survey, County Commissioners approval or Montana DEQ approval may be required, and subdivisions creating building sites can take several months2425.
  1. Ask the Clerk and Recorder about zoning for an unincorporated parcel, then Environmental Health about the septic site and individual installation process37.
  1. Check flood status with the Contract Floodplain Administrator before building: a county floodplain permit is required, septic systems are prohibited in the floodplain, and construction in the floodway must be removed826. Ask the administrator for the floodplain permit fee under the county fee schedule278.
  1. For access, ask the Road Department about its county-road approach application; a state-highway entrance needs an MDT approach permit or right-of-way agreement1128.
  1. Confirm the state building-permit exemption or obtain the required building permit before construction12.

What should you check before buying land in Blaine County?

Start with sewage feasibility: only 10.6% of Blaine County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field12. Check flood status because development in a regulated flood-hazard area needs a county floodplain permit, septic systems are prohibited there, and subdivisions in floodplains are prohibited62118. Confirm access with the Road Department for a county-road approach or MDT for a state-highway approach permit1128. Water planning matters in a county averaging 14.4 inches of precipitation a year and experiencing severe drought in about 16.6% of years2930. The effective property-tax rate is about 1.5%, and the median annual bill is about $1,9013132.

Watch-outs

  • Blaine County zoning on unincorporated land and private-land RV or tiny-home occupancy remain unconfirmed; ask the Clerk and Recorder before relying on those uses3.
  • Only 10.6% of Blaine County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field12.
  • Blaine County prohibits septic systems and subdivisions in floodplains; construction in the floodway must be removed even though floodplain building elsewhere has a permit process212426.

Sources

  1. bsd.dli.mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  2. Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  3. (2026 county census)
  4. Chinook: 17.04.020 Jurisdiction (Blaine County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Environmental Health Sanitarian | Blaine County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Blaine County Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  7. Blaine County Environmental Health (blainecounty-mt.gov)
  8. Blaine County Contract Floodplain Administrator (blainecounty-mt.gov)
  9. Plumbing Permits, quoted and re-checked
  10. Plumbing Permits, quoted and re-checked
  11. Blaine County Road Department (blainecounty-mt.gov)
  12. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  13. Certified City, County and Town Programs, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  15. bsd.dli.mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  16. Montana Building Codes Program, quoted and re-checked
  17. Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  18. Blaine County, Montana Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  19. Chinook: 15.04.070 Water and sewer service—Regulations (Blaine County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Environmental Health Sanitarian | Blaine County, quoted and re-checked
  21. blainecounty-mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  22. blainecounty-mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  23. esd.dli.mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  24. Clerk & Recorder | Blaine County, quoted and re-checked
  25. blainecounty-mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  26. blainecounty-mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  27. Information Sheet: Floodplain Permit Requirement, quoted and re-checked
  28. Approach Manual for Landowners and Developers (Montana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

RuleBlaine CountyPhillips CountyHill CountyChouteau CountyFergus CountyPetroleum CountyLiberty County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredLimitedLimitedNot requiredNot requiredLimited
County zoningNot publishedNot publishedYesYesNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Env. HealthCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County SanitarianCounty Health Dept.MT Dept. of Env. QualityCounty Health Dept.

County locator

Blaine County in Montana

46
County map
Blaine County highlighted among the Montana counties · colored by Index score

How Blaine County scores

Seclusion89100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency14100% ev.
Admin Boringness7168% ev.
Durability42100% ev.
Property Autonomy83100% ev.
Carry Cost83100% ev.

Evidence strength: 95%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$223kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$849Land / acre
14.4"Annual rain
16.6% of yrsSevere drought
5.2 / yr (+4.6)Mid-century 100°F days
22.2 daysMid-century dry spell
1.12" (+7.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.26×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,734Home insurance / yr
0.5% / yrInsurance growth
2.31%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
378Radius comparison (15 mi)
1.6People / sq mi
19.3%Federal land
69.9%Land at 15% slope or less
10.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
279,430 acWorkable land screen
6.2%Wooded land
10.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42.7°FAvg temp

Scout Blaine County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Blaine County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Cities and towns in Blaine County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Harlem

Answers from the rulebook for Blaine County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Blaine County rules

  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    On-site septic and sanitation review in Blaine County, with county environmental-health administration and Montana DEQ subdivision sanitation review.

    • The Blaine County Environmental Health Provider administers the county Septic System Program and sanitary subdivision review.
    • Montana DEQ reviews qualifying subdivisions for water supply, sewage disposal, solid waste disposal, and storm drainage.
    “WHAT THE EHP DOES [...] Septic System Program [...] Sanitary Review of Subdivisions of Land”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Blaine County Environmental Health administration of the county septic-system program.
      “The Environmental Health Provider plan review and inspection of licensed establishments. [...] Septic System Program [...] Sanitary Review of Subdivisions of Land [...] Well Water Consultation”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid or onsite sanitation for buildings in Blaine County floodplain areas.

    • Septic systems are prohibited in the floodplain.
    • A building requiring water and sewage facilities may proceed only if it can connect to a community wastewater system or the sewage can be pumped out of the floodplain.
    • The source does not establish a countywide rule for off-grid sanitation outside floodplain areas.
    “Septic systems are prohibited in the floodplain.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Private wastewater or off-grid sanitation systems in Blaine County floodplain areas.
      “Septic systems are prohibited in the floodplain.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings requiring water and sewage facilities within Blaine County floodplain areas.

    • A building requiring water and sewage facilities cannot be built in the floodplain unless it can be connected to a community wastewater system or the sewage can be pumped out of the floodplain.
    • The county page states that communication with WWC Engineering is charged to the requester.
    “connected to a community wastewater system”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Buildings requiring water and sewage facilities in Blaine County floodplain areas.
      “Unless the building can be connected to a community wastewater system, or the sewage can be pumped out of the floodplain, no building requiring water and sewage facilities can be built in the floodplain.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land within the jurisdictional area governed by Blaine County, including unincorporated county areas; incorporated cities and towns have additional or shared approval roles when the stated proximity or location conditions apply.

    • Blaine County subdivision regulations govern subdivision within the county governing body's jurisdictional area.
    • If a proposed subdivision is within one mile of a third-class city or town, two miles of a second-class city, or three miles of a first-class city, the county must submit the preliminary plat to the city or town governing body or designated agent for review and comment.
    • If a proposed subdivision lies partly within an incorporated city or town, the preliminary plat must be submitted to and approved by both the city or town and county governing bodies.
    • The regulations supplement other regulations, and where they conflict, the more restrictive requirements apply, including zoning, floodplain, building, development, and fire codes.
    • A subdivision application must be submitted in hard copy; the applicant must complete a preapplication request and provide a development drawing for planner review.
    • The application process includes preliminary-plat review and public hearings or meetings by the Planning Board and/or County Commissioners, with approval, approval with conditions, or denial possible.
    • Subdivisions in floodplains are prohibited.
    • The county subdivision regulations were adopted on September 28, 2017 and the adopting resolution states that it was effective immediately upon adoption.

    city or town review distance for third-class city or town: 1 mile (review and comment by the city or town governing body or designated agent) · city review distance for second-class city: 2 miles (review and comment by the city governing body or designated agent) · city review distance for first-class city: 3 miles (review and comment by the city governing body or designated agent) · preliminary plat decision: approval, approval with conditions, or denial (denial ends the process; conditional approval requires compliance with conditions before final-plat application) · application submission format: hard copy (submitted to the County) · adoption date: 2017-09-28 (resolution effective immediately upon adoption)

    “These regulations govern the subdivision of land within the jurisdictional area of the governing body of Blaine County, a political subdivision of the State of Montana.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision or transfer-of-interest review in Blaine County.
      “Subdivisions in floodplains are prohibited.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area in Blaine County.

    • A floodplain permit is required before development within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
    • The county page states that building in the floodway requires removal.
    • The floodplain regulations include additional review and completion conditions.
    “Floodplain permits must be obtained according to these regulations before development occurs that is within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Building in Blaine County floodplain areas.
      “Much of Blaine County, including parts of Chinook, is in the floodplain and a floodplain permit is required prior to building in the floodplain.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Blaine County floodplain permit fees.

    • Fees are tied to the County fee schedule.
    • The cited source does not publish the fee amount.
    “Fees are used to ensure the County does not incur a debt while reviewing development applications. Floodplain permit fees are tied to the County fee schedule.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Blaine County subdivision review and floodplain permitting processes.

    • Subdivision applicants should contact the county sanitarian and planner before filing.
    • A survey, county commissioner approval, or DEQ approval may be required depending on circumstances.
    • A floodplain permit is required before building in the floodplain.
    • The county page refers applicants to WWC Engineering for more information.
    “The Blaine County Sanitarian and the Blaine County Planner should be contacted for approval of any instrument of transfer prior to filing. [...] Much of Blaine County, including parts of Chinook, is in the floodplain and a floodplain permit is required prior to building in the floodplain.”

Montana rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Building permits in unincorporated Blaine County areas outside certified local-government building-code jurisdictions.

    • State-level exemptions include farm or ranch buildings.
    • Private homes and apartments with four or fewer units are exempt when they do not serve transient guests.
    • Private storage buildings and garages are exempt; additional work may also be exempt, and the state advises an inquiry when applicability is uncertain.
    • Local county or city requirements may still apply.
    • The state certified-jurisdiction page states that all areas not listed as certified local jurisdictions are under the State Building Codes Bureau.

    residential dwelling units: <= 4 units (Exemption applies only when the building does not serve transient guests)

    “Yes, projects which are exempt from the building permit process (at the state level) include: 1. Farm or ranch buildings. 2. Private homes and apartments with four or fewer units that do not serve transient guests. 3. Petroleum refineries and pulp and paper mills (except office and shop buildings). 4. Mine buildings on the mine site and regulated under Title 82, Chapter 4, MCA. 5. Private storage buildings and garages. Additional work may also be exempt from a building permit and an inquiry to the bureau may be required to determine whether a building permit is required. It is also advisable to check with your local county and city government agencies to see if additional local requirements apply.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Non-exempt construction in Blaine County areas under the State Building Codes Bureau.
      “In Montana a state building permit is required prior to the start of construction for certain types of new buildings, and/or for alterations, additions, and repairs.”
    • Not required — Residential buildings containing fewer than five dwelling units in Blaine County areas under state jurisdiction.
      “residential buildings containing less than five dwelling units (except when serving transient guests)”
    • Required — Certain new buildings, alterations, additions, and repairs in Montana state jurisdiction, including areas outside certified local-government programs.
      “A state building permit is required for any state owned agency or non-exempt building”
    • Limited — Construction, remodeling, moving, alterations, additions, repairs, or changes of occupancy for buildings subject to Montana state building-code jurisdiction.
      “In Montana a state building permit is required prior to the start of construction for certain types of new buildings, and/or for alterations, additions, and repairs.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A homeowner performing plumbing installation themselves in a residence for the owner's personal use in Montana, including Blaine County where the state has jurisdiction.

    • The homeowner must perform the plumbing installation themselves.
    • The residence must be for the owner's personal use.
    • The residence must not be built on speculation of resale.
    • The residence must not be intended as a rental property.
    • Certified local governments may enforce the plumbing code within their jurisdictional area; other areas fall under the State's jurisdiction.
    • All plumbing must meet the requirements of the Uniform Plumbing Code, and plumbing inspections must be requested and conducted before any portion of the plumbing work is covered.
    “Homeowners do not need to obtain a plumbing permit provided he/she is doing the plumbing installation themselves and the residence is for the owner's personal use and not built on speculation of resale or intended as a rental property.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Homeowner-performed plumbing installation for the owner's personal-use residence in Montana state jurisdiction, including a Blaine County project if the project is within that state jurisdiction.
      “Homeowners do not need to obtain a plumbing permit provided he/she is doing the plumbing installation themselves and the residence is for the owner's personal use and not built on speculation of resale or intended as a rental property.”
    • Conditional — Homeowner-performed plumbing work in Montana, including Blaine County where the state has jurisdiction.
      “Homeowners do not need to obtain a plumbing permit provided he/she is doing the plumbing installation themselves”
    • Conditional — Owner construction work and owner-contracted work under Montana construction-contractor registration requirements, including Blaine County.
      “to an owner working on the owner's property, whether occupied by the owner or not”
    • Available — An owner working on the owner's property, or an owner contracting for work performed by a registered construction contractor, under Montana's construction-contractor licensing chapter.
      “(13) to an owner working on the owner's property, whether occupied by the owner or not, but this exemption does not apply to an owner”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Montana's uniform state building code for residential and commercial buildings statewide.

    • The currently listed codes are amended and adopted through Administrative Rules of Montana Title 24, Chapter 301.
    • Cities, counties, and towns may enforce local building codes, all or in part, only through certified local building-code-enforcement programs.
    • State-owned agencies must be permitted through the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.
    • The listed 2021 International Building, Residential, and Existing Building Codes and related codes are effective June 11, 2022; the listed ASME boiler and pressure-vessel codes are effective November 6, 2021.

    International Building Code edition: 2021 · International Residential Code edition: 2021 · effective date for listed principal codes: 2022-06-11 (ASME boiler and pressure-vessel codes listed on the official page are effective 2021-11-06)

    “In addition, the program is responsible for adopting a uniform state building code, which is enforced statewide for residential and commercial buildings across Montana.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State building codes applicable in Blaine County areas not covered by a certified local government program.
      “A city, county or town building code may include only codes adopted by the Building Codes Program. [...] All other areas are under the jurisdiction of the State Building Codes Bureau”
    • Partial — Montana's statewide building-code framework for residential and commercial construction.
      “In Montana, cities, counties and towns have the option to enforce local building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical codes, all or in part (except for state-owned agencies, which must be permitted through this Department). These local building code enforcement programs must be certified by the BC Program. The remaining cities, counties and towns that have chosen not to enforce building codes, fall under the jurisdiction of the BC Program. [...] the program is responsible for adopting a uniform state building code, which is enforced statewide for residential and commercial buildings across Montana.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Projects in Blaine County that require a state building permit.

    • Inspection applies to required-permit projects.
    • The permit holder must notify the inspector when work is ready and provide access for required inspections.
    • Exempt projects are not covered by this state permit-inspection process.
    “It is the responsibility of the permit hold to notify the inspector when work is ready for inspection and to provide access for required inspections.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Projects requiring Montana building, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permits in Blaine County.
      “Field inspection staff for the programs are positioned around the state to ensure adequate coverage for inspection and regulation of projects requiring a permit.”
    • Required — Required inspections for state-permitted construction in Montana state jurisdiction.
      “notify the inspector when work is ready for inspection and to provide access for required inspections.”
    • Limited — Buildings and other projects requiring permits under Montana state building-code jurisdiction; certified local governments may perform inspections within their certified jurisdictional areas.
      “The BC Program establishes and enforces statewide codes by issuing permits and performing inspections.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Buildings constructed in accordance with the Montana state building code or a county, city, or town building code.

    • The certificate must certify that the building conforms to the applicable building regulations.
    • The statute addresses certificates for buildings constructed under the state or local building code; it does not establish a universal certificate requirement for every structure or every occupancy.
    “A certificate of occupancy for a building constructed in accordance with the provisions of the state building code or county, city, or town building code must certify that the building conforms to the requirements of the building regulations applicable to it.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    RV, camper-trailer, and other trailer overnight use for general recreation on legally accessible Montana state trust land administered by DNRC.

    • A Conservation License is required for dispersed camping on state trust land.
    • RV or trailer camping must be within 50 feet of a customary access point; motorized vehicles must be parked within 50 feet of a customary access point, and the camper or trailer may not be set up farther away by driving beyond that point.
    • On leased or licensed land, the stay limit is 2 days.
    • On unleased or unlicensed land, the stay limit is 16 days within a 30-day period.
    • Within a designated campground, the stay limit is 16 days within a 30-day period.
    • The local DNRC field office should be contacted to confirm whether land is leased.
    • Pets must be leashed or otherwise controlled.
    • Overnight horses must be restrained, may not remain in a stream riparian zone for more than one hour, and must use certified weed-seed-free feed.
    • Campfires are generally permitted within designated campgrounds and on unleased or unlicensed land but are not allowed on leased land.
    • Cutting firewood requires a separate permit from the local DNRC field office, and fireworks are not allowed on state land.
    • State Parks, Fishing Access Sites, and Wildlife Management Areas are managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks rather than under this DNRC camping page.

    RV/trailer distance from customary access point: <= 50 ft (Motorized vehicles must be parked within 50 feet; the page states the camper or trailer may not be driven farther to set it up.) · maximum stay on leased or licensed land: 2 days · maximum stay on unleased or unlicensed land: 16 days within a 30-day period · maximum stay within designated campground: 16 days within a 30-day period

    “TRAILER/RV etc. Camp within 50 ft of a customary access point. Motorized vehicles must be parked within 50 ft of a customary access point. You may not drive further to set up a camper or trailer. On leased or licensed land: 2 days On unleased/unlicensed land: 16 days within a 30-day period Within designated campground: 16 days within a 30-day period”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Manufactured housing used as residential housing within Montana municipalities that exercise zoning powers under MCA Title 76, chapter 2, part 3.

    • Municipal zoning regulations may not treat manufactured housing or factory-built housing units differently from other residential units.
    • Placement remains subject to applicable municipal zoning districts, permits or variances where required, building-code requirements, and other applicable health and safety rules.
    • The statute defines manufactured housing as a single-family dwelling built offsite in a factory and compliant with applicable prevailing HUD standards; a manufactured home does not include a mobile home or housetrailer as defined in 15-1-101, MCA.
    • The source addresses municipal zoning and does not establish unrestricted occupancy on unzoned or county land statewide.
    “Zoning regulations adopted under this part may not treat manufactured housing or factory-built housing units differently from any other residential units.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units in jurisdictional areas where a Montana county has established zoning regulations under MCA Title 76, chapter 2, part 2.

    • The county zoning regulations must allow at least one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel containing a single-family dwelling.
    • The unit may be attached, detached, or internal.
    • The county may not require owner occupancy, a familial, marital, or employment relationship between occupants, or impact fees; private restrictive covenants remain possible but cannot be required as a permit, license, or use condition.
    • A county may charge up to $250 for a one-time ADU application-review fee, in addition to usual building fees.
    • Applicable building codes, fire codes, and public-health and safety regulations still apply.
    • The county may require expedited sanitation review for an ADU on a parcel with existing public water and wastewater capacity; the 15-day expedited-review provision terminates September 30, 2029.
    • The statute applies to a county that exercises zoning powers; it does not itself create county zoning where none exists.

    maximum one-time application-review fee: <= 250 USD (Usual building fees may also be required.) · expedited sanitation review: 15 days (Parcel must have existing public water and wastewater service with capacity.)

    “In jurisdictional areas where the board of county commissioners has established zoning regulations under this part, the regulations must allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel that contains a single-family dwelling.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units in Montana municipalities that exercise zoning powers under MCA Title 76, chapter 2, part 3.
      “A municipality shall adopt regulations under this chapter that allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel that contains a single-family dwelling.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of a drainfield in Montana, including property already covered by a Certificate of Subdivision Approval.

    • A Certificate of Subdivision Approval does not replace the drainfield permit.
    • The cited page identifies the local health department as the permitting authority.
    “Yes, even thought you have a COSA, a drainfield permit is still required by the local health department.”
  • Well permitLimited

    New groundwater developments in Montana using 35 gallons per minute or less and no more than 10 acre-feet per year.

    • All water uses starting after June 30, 1973, require a water right either through a water-use permit or an exception to the permitting process.
    • The development may qualify for the exception; qualification is not automatic.
    • Completed groundwater uses that meet the permit exception receive a Groundwater Certificate rather than a water permit.
    • A permitted water right is required for a combined appropriation from the same source by two or more wells or developed springs exceeding 10 acre-feet, regardless of flow rate.
    • All lots in a multi-phase subdivision must share a combined water-use limit of 10 acre-feet per year to qualify for a permit exception.
    • Beginning January 1, 2026, a water user intending to develop water use through a permit exception must file a Notice of Intent with DNRC before using water from an exempt well.
    • DNRC reviews a correct and complete Notice of Intent within 10 business days; if eligible, it authorizes the Notice of Intent and gives the user five years to complete the project, put the water to use, and file a Notice of Completion.
    • If the proposed use is not eligible, the Notice of Intent is denied and the user is directed to the water-right permit process.
    • The Notice of Intent filing fee is $400.
    • An authorized Notice of Intent expires after five years, with an opportunity for one five-year extension.

    maximum flow rate: <= 35 gpm · maximum annual volume: <= 10 acre-feet per year · Notice of Intent fee: 400 USD (Beginning January 1, 2026) · Notice of Intent review period: 10 business days (For a correct and complete Notice of Intent) · authorized Notice of Intent term: 5 years (One five-year extension opportunity is available)

    “Permit Exceptions, a.k.a. Exempt Wells: Small groundwater developments that use 35 gpm or less and do not exceed 10 acre-feet per year are known as “exempt wells” and may qualify for an exception to the water permit process.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Surface-water uses and groundwater uses exceeding 35 gallons per minute or 10 acre-feet per year in Montana.
      “Water Permits: A water permit is required for all surface water use and groundwater uses over 35 gallons per minute (gpm) or 10 acre-feet per year.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    New or modified driveway approaches intersecting Montana state highways, and changes in use of property abutting a state highway or an existing approach.

    • A new or modified approach requires either an approach permit or a right-of-way agreement.
    • A change in property use or change in use of an existing approach requires a new approach permit.
    • The landowner is responsible for obtaining the new permit.
    • The application must be made to the appropriate MDT District Office.
    • A detailed site plan and Environmental Checklist Form are required.
    • The requirement concerns state highways; local roads may be administered by local governments.
    “ALL NEW OR MODIFIED APPROACHES REQUIRE EITHER AN APPROACH PERMIT OR A RIGHT-OF-WAY AGREEMENT.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals operated in Montana.

    • A Property Manager license is required unless the operator qualifies for an exemption under MCA § 37-56-104 or MCA § 50-51.
    • Local land-use, lodging, tax, and public-accommodation requirements may also apply.

    application fee: 50 USD

    “Short Term Rentals: A Property Manager license is required for short term rentals unless an operator qualifies for an exemption”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping in Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks public-use sites.

    • Camping is prohibited except in areas specifically designated or marked for camping.
    • A camping unit, vehicle, equipment, or personal items may not be left overnight without a person present.
    • Camping longer than 7 nights at one or more campsites in a public use area during any consecutive 30-day period is prohibited unless otherwise posted by the department.
    • Designated occupancy limits must not be exceeded.
    • Special-use-permit terms must be followed unless otherwise posted.
    • Campsites must be vacated by 1 p.m. on the day of departure; camping facilities must be vacated by 12 p.m. on the day of departure.

    maximum camping duration: <= 7 nights per consecutive 30-day period (unless otherwise posted by the department) · campsite departure time: 1 p.m. · camping-facility departure time: 12 p.m.

    “Unless otherwise posted by the department, within a public use site it is prohibited to: [...] camp at one or more campsites in a public use area for a period of longer than 7 nights during any consecutive 30-day period, beginning with the first night occupied unless otherwise posted by the department;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Dispersed and designated-campground temporary camping on legally accessible Montana state trust land administered by DNRC.
      “Dispersed camping is allowed on state trust land with the appropriate permit and with certain restrictions. Dispersed camping on state trust land is allowed with a Conservation License. Camping that is incidental to hunting or fishing is permitted through your conservation license, and no additional permitting is required. Group camping requires a special recreational use license. On leased or licensed land: 2 days On unleased/unlicensed land: 16 days within a 30-day period Within designated campground: 16 days within a 30-day period”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Montana county boards of commissioners' authority to adopt zoning regulations, including in unincorporated portions of established jurisdictional areas.

    • The board of county commissioners must have adopted a growth policy pursuant to Title 76, chapter 1.
    • Zoning may be adopted for all or parts of the jurisdictional area in accordance with Title 76, chapter 2, part 2.
    • Within unincorporated portions of an established jurisdictional area, the board may establish zoning regulations by resolution or divide the county into zoning districts.
    • Zoning regulations may regulate the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, location, or use of buildings or structures and the use of land.
    • An action challenging creation of a zoning district or adoption of zoning regulations must be commenced within 6 months after the board's order.
    • Regulations in one district may differ from those in other districts.
    • The statute also states that zoning regulations may not treat manufactured housing or factory-built housing units differently from other residential units, subject to the statutory presumption concerning placement.

    challenge period: 6 months (after the date of the board order creating the district or adopting the regulations)

    “For the purpose of promoting the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare, a board of county commissioners that has adopted a growth policy pursuant to chapter 1 is authorized to adopt zoning regulations for all or parts of the jurisdictional area in accordance with the provisions of this part.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Montana county boards of commissioners adopting zoning regulations for all or parts of their jurisdictional areas, including unincorporated portions where the statutory prerequisites are met.
      “a board of county commissioners that has adopted a growth policy pursuant to chapter 1 is authorized to adopt zoning regulations”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Montana counties may adopt and enforce building codes and require construction permits for residential construction in unincorporated county areas, subject to the statutory certification, geographic, code-content, and permit requirements.

    • A county may adopt a building code by ordinance or resolution, or authorize adoption by administrative action.
    • A county may adopt its building code on a countywide basis unless a city or town within the county has adopted a building code; the county may not enforce its county building code within that city or town.
    • The county code-enforcement program must be certified by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.
    • The current adopted code, current fee list, and current enforcement plan must be filed with and approved by the Department.
    • Inspectors must satisfy the stated state-licensing or approved national-certification requirements.
    • Except for voluntary incentive-based energy-conservation standards, the county may not adopt or enforce a building code more stringent than the code adopted by the Department or required by state law.
    • The county may prohibit construction from commencing until the required permit is issued after compliance is shown.
    • The general construction-permit requirement applies to buildings subject to Title 50, chapter 60, parts 1 through 4.
    • State agency-owned buildings remain under state Department jurisdiction for plan review, permitting, and inspections.
    “The local legislative body of a county, city, or town may adopt a building code to apply to the county, city, or town by an ordinance or resolution, as appropriate: (a) adopting a building code; or (b) authorizing the adoption of a building code by administrative action.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Montana counties' authority to adopt and enforce building codes and require building-code administration for construction in county areas, including unincorporated areas.
      “The local legislative body of a county, city, or town may adopt a building code to apply to the county, city, or town by an ordinance or resolution, as appropriate: (a) adopting a building code; or (b) authorizing the adoption of a building code by administrative action.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning in Blaine County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Local zoning — Aggregate local zoning across Blaine County municipalities and unincorporated areas; the county materials identify applicable zoning as potentially relevant but do not identify the specific municipal or county ordinances.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Blaine County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Blaine County, including areas outside municipal limits.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in Blaine County.
7 more unanswered
  • Setbacks
  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • Camping on your land
  • Tiny homes
  • Septic inspection
  • Agricultural exemption

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Blaine County, Montana

Is Blaine County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Blaine County scores 46/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 378 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 14.4″ of rain a year and elevated current hazard exposure.

Do you need a building permit in Blaine County, Montana?

Blaine County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas. Onsite septic is permitted by Blaine County Environmental Health / Registered Sanitarian (Septic System Program). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Blaine County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Blaine County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. RV, camper-trailer, and other trailer overnight use for general recreation on legally accessible Montana state trust land administered by DNRC. A Conservation License is required for dispersed camping on state trust land. RV or trailer camping must be within 50 feet of a customary access point; motorized vehicles must be parked within 50 feet of a customary access point, and the camper or trailer may not be set up farther away by driving beyond that point. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Blaine County, Montana?

Land in Blaine County runs about $849 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Blaine County?

Blaine County gets about 14.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 16.6% of years.

How remote is Blaine County?

A typical private-land location has about 378 people within 15 miles and 96,475 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Blaine compares in Montana

Compare side-by-side →See all 56 Montana counties ranked →