Daniels County, MT: No Building Permit

Unincorporated Daniels County, Montana does not require a local building permit for an ordinary single-family home, but the county has an adopted zoning resolution and its Planning Board reviews development applications¹²³. Montana requires state building permits only for certain non-exempt projects, and residential buildings with fewer than five dwelling units and farm and ranch buildings are among the state exemptions⁴. Septic work still needs a drainfield permit from the local health department, even for a lot with Montana DEQ sanitation approval⁵⁶.

At a glance

Building permit: No local permit program for an ordinary single-family home; state permits apply to certain non-exempt projects¹⁷
Zoning: Yes; ask Daniels County Planning how the zoning resolution applies to the parcel²
Septic permit: Local health handles the drainfield permit; Montana DEQ reviews sanitation for covered subdivisions⁵⁸
RV living: Private-land occupancy rule could not be confirmed; ask Daniels County Planning and the sanitarian²⁹
Accessory dwelling: At least one accessory dwelling unit must be allowed by right on a parcel with a single-family home¹⁰
Owner-builder: Owners may work on their own property under Montana's contractor-licensing exemption, which does not waive other permits¹¹¹²
Farm and ranch buildings: Exempt from the Montana state building permit where state jurisdiction applies¹³
Conventional septic soils: Only 7.5% of county soils rate without severe limitations¹⁴

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Daniels County Planning

County zoning, subdivision plats and development applications

406-483-5431

sandhills@nemont.net

288 Sandhills Road, Dagmar, MT 59219

Septic permits

Daniels County Environmental Health/Sanitarian

Local environmental-health and sanitarian contact for Daniels County, including drainfield-permit questions

(406) 487-5560

cshipp@sheridancountymt.gov

PO Box 836, Scobey, MT 59263

Roads & driveways

Daniels County Road Department

County-road access questions and the county's encroachment-permit process

406-487-2633

dcroaddep@outlook.com

102 Chapman Rd

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

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

An ordinary single-family home in unincorporated Daniels County does not require a county building permit because the county does not operate a local building-permit program for that work¹. Montana's state program requires permits for certain non-exempt construction, but residential buildings with fewer than five dwelling units and farm and ranch buildings are among the state exemptions⁴.

A permit-exempt home is not exempt from land-use or sanitation review: Daniels County has zoning and reviews development applications, while the local health authority still requires a drainfield permit even when Montana DEQ has approved subdivision sanitation¹⁵⁵. Ask Daniels County Planning to confirm the parcel's zoning before fixing the house location³.

If you build the house yourself, Montana's contractor-licensing exemption covers an owner working on the owner's property, but it does not itself exempt a project from applicable building, electrical, plumbing or inspection requirements¹².

Who handles building and development permits in Daniels County?

Daniels County does not list a local building department for ordinary single-family construction; Daniels County Planning is the practical first stop because the office handles county zoning, subdivision plats and development applications¹¹⁵. Reach Daniels County Planning at 288 Sandhills Road, Dagmar, MT 59219, by phone at 406-483-5431 or by email at sandhills@nemont.net³.

For a project subject to Montana's state building-permit program, submit construction plans and the Building Permit/Plan Review Application to the state Building Codes Program; average plan review is three weeks, but timing varies¹⁶. State plan review adds 35% of the building permit fee, and both charges must be paid before issuance¹⁷. The permit holder must notify the inspector when work is ready¹⁸.

Does Daniels County, Montana have zoning?

Yes. Daniels County has an adopted zoning resolution, and the Planning Board reviews subdivision plats and development applications²¹⁵. Montana law gives county commissioners zoning authority after adoption of a growth policy, but the county resolution—not the general state authority—determines most parcel-level standards¹⁹².

The county's published zoning material says a use within a zoning district is permitted only when the additional conditions for that use are met, with approval by the Planning/Zoning Committee on an application that includes a plot plan and a $50 permit fee²⁰. We could not confirm the zoning status of the county's incorporated towns, so confirm with Daniels County Planning whether a town address falls under county zoning²⁰. The available county information does not establish countywide answers for minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage, building height or minimum dwelling size². Ask Daniels County Planning to identify the zoning designation and applicable standards for the exact parcel before designing a home or accessory structure³. Because Daniels County has zoning, its regulations must allow at least one accessory dwelling unit by right on a parcel containing a single-family dwelling, although building, fire, sanitation and other health-and-safety rules still apply²¹⁰.

How do septic permits work in Daniels County?

Daniels County septic authority is split: Montana DEQ administers state water-quality and covered subdivision sanitation review, while the local health authority requires a drainfield permit even when a property already has a Montana Certificate of Subdivision Approval⁵. The official state directory lists Daniels County Environmental Health/Sanitarian at PO Box 836, Scobey, MT 59263, phone (406) 487-5560 and email cshipp@sheridancountymt.gov²¹. Ask that office about site evaluation, system design, the application and inspections before disturbing the drainfield area²¹.

Montana DEQ reviews sanitation for covered land divisions, condominiums, recreational camping vehicle parks and mobile-home parks; that review covers water supply, sewage disposal, solid waste and storm drainage⁸. For lots created after 1961 and under 20 acres, the property will generally have a Certificate of Subdivision Approval or sanitary restrictions, and that certificate must be issued before facilities that need sewer or water are developed²². Only 7.5% of Daniels County soils rate without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so a site-specific evaluation should precede the house layout¹⁴.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Daniels County?

We could not confirm a Daniels County rule that allows or prohibits living in an RV on private land². We also could not confirm a tiny-home-specific occupancy rule, minimum dwelling size or county manufactured-home occupancy rule². Ask Daniels County Planning how the county zoning resolution treats the proposed unit and use on the exact parcel³.

An accessory dwelling unit has a clearer answer: because Daniels County has zoning, its regulations must allow at least one accessory dwelling unit by right on a parcel containing a single-family dwelling²¹⁰. Sanitation remains a separate gate: a local drainfield permit is required for an onsite system, and Montana DEQ reviews recreational camping vehicle parks and mobile-home parks regardless of parcel size⁶⁸. Ask the County Environmental Health/Sanitarian what wastewater approval is needed before occupying any RV or tiny home²¹.

Building a home in Daniels County: what are the steps?

Ask Daniels County Planning to confirm the parcel's zoning designation and whether a development application or subdivision review is needed¹⁵³.

Contact the County Environmental Health/Sanitarian for the local drainfield-permit process and determine whether Montana DEQ subdivision sanitation review also applies⁵²¹.

Confirm whether the structure is exempt from Montana's building permit; for covered work, submit plans and the state application for review before construction⁴¹⁶.

If the site lies in a designated Special Flood Hazard Area, contact the local floodplain administrator because new development there requires local floodplain review²³.

Ask the Daniels County Road Department about access from a county road, or apply through the appropriate Montana Department of Transportation district office for a new or modified approach onto a state highway²⁴²⁵.

What should you check before buying land in Daniels County?

Start with zoning and wastewater feasibility: Daniels County has zoning, and only 7.5% of county soils rate without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field²¹⁴. Ask Planning for the parcel's zoning designation and the County Environmental Health/Sanitarian about a site evaluation before treating a listing as buildable³²¹.

Check water reliability as well: Daniels County averages 14.5 inches of precipitation a year, and severe drought occurs in about 20.6% of years²⁶²⁷. Water is a separate approval: a private well using 35 gallons per minute or less and no more than 10 acre-feet per year may qualify for a permit exception, and since January 1, 2026 the user must file a Notice of Intent with the Montana DNRC before using the water²⁸. Confirm legal and physical access with the Road Department for a county road; a driveway connecting to a state highway needs an MDT approach permit or right-of-way agreement²⁴²⁵. Determine whether the building site is in a designated Special Flood Hazard Area before closing²³. For carrying costs, the county's effective property-tax rate is about 0.9%, with a median annual bill near $1,533²⁹³⁰.

Watch-outs

No county building permit for an ordinary single-family home does not remove Daniels County zoning, development review or local septic requirements¹¹⁵⁵.
Private-land RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy and county dimensional standards could not be confirmed; ask Daniels County Planning about the exact parcel²³.
Only 7.5% of Daniels County soils rate without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so investigate wastewater feasibility before choosing the building site¹⁴.

Sources

Written October 9, 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.

Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 3 of the 5 neighbors with published rules, Daniels County has countywide zoning.

Rule	Daniels County	Roosevelt County	Sheridan County	Valley County	McCone County	Richland County	Dawson County
Building permit	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Required	Limited
County zoning	Yes	Not published	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Septic permits	MT DEQ	County Sanitarian	County Sanitarian	County Sanitation Dept.	County Sanitarian	County Health Dept.	County Sanitarian

How Daniels County scores

Seclusion89100% ev.

Self-Sufficiency1392% ev.

Admin Boringness6590% ev.

Durability43100% ev.

Property Autonomy83100% ev.

Carry Cost8596% ev.

Evidence strength: 96%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$175kTypical home

0.9%Property tax

$1,076Land / acre

14.5"Annual rain

20.6% of yrsSevere drought

6 / yr (+5)Mid-century 100°F days

21.3 daysMid-century dry spell

0.98" (+6.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain

1.32×Wildfire change factor

100%Forward climate coverage

$2,222Home insurance / yr

3.8% / yrInsurance growth

0.8%Nonrenewal rate

single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis

7,172People within 2 hr

1,389Radius comparison (15 mi)

1.1People / sq mi

0.5%Federal land

88%Land at 15% slope or less

7.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)

64,788 acWorkable land screen

0.6%Wooded land

39.6°FAvg temp

Answers from the rulebook for Daniels County

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

Daniels County rules

Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
County-administered local zoning in Daniels County, including zoning-district conditional-use and special-exception review.
- A use within a zoning district is permitted only when the additional conditions specified for that use are met.
- Approval is by the Planning/Zoning Committee.
- The application requires a plot plan and states a $50.00 permit fee.
- The sources do not establish the zoning status of separately incorporated municipalities within Daniels County.
permit fee: 50 USD
“Daniels County has a planning board and uses the adopted zoning code to address subdivision-type development.”
Planning — Daniels County, Montana ↗Re-checked Oct 9, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Present (with conditions) — County zoning and development review in Daniels County, Montana.
  “Reviews and Approves Applications for Development [...] Zoning Resolution 1983”
  Planning — Daniels County, Montana ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)
Onsite wastewater and subdivision sanitation in Daniels County.
- Montana DEQ provides COSA sanitation approval for subdivision review.
- A local health department separately issues the drainfield permit even after COSA approval.
- The responsible local health department for a specific Daniels County parcel was not identified.
“sanitation approval from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality.”
COSA and drainfield permits ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Drainfield installation in Daniels County.
- A COSA does not replace the local health department drainfield permit.
- The applicable local health department administers the permit.
“Yes, even thought you have a COSA, a drainfield permit is still required by the local health department.”
deq.mt.gov ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision and development review in Daniels County.
- The county Planning Board reviews and approves subdivision plats and development applications.
- Montana DEQ separately reviews divisions of land under its sanitation-review jurisdiction, including divisions creating parcels under 20 acres and certain RV/mobile-home parks regardless of parcel size.
DEQ parcel threshold: < 20 acres (RV and mobile-home parks are reviewed regardless of parcel size)
“Promotes the orderly development of Daniels County Develops a growth Policy for Daniels County Reviews and Approves Subdivision Plats Reviews and Approves Applications for Development”
Planning Board ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats and development applications in Daniels County.
  “Serves as an advisory capacity to the County Commissioners Promotes the orderly development of Daniels County Develops a growth Policy for Daniels County Reviews and Approves Subdivision Plats Reviews and Approves Applications for Development”
  Planning — Daniels County, Montana ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
- Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats and development applications in Daniels County.
  “Reviews and Approves Subdivision Plats Reviews and Approves Applications for Development”
  Planning — Daniels County, Montana ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
Permit processPartial
Daniels County planning and development application process.
- The county page lists a subdivision plat application, application for development, and subdivision application.
- The Planning Board meets in January, April, July, and October; dates, times, and places are TBD, and special meetings are held as needed.
- The page states that the Planning Board reviews and approves subdivision plats and applications for development.
“January, April, July, and October – Date, time and place are TBD. Special meetings are held as needed.”
Planning — Daniels County, Montana ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
County-wide zoningPresent
Daniels County has an adopted Zoning Resolution (1983), and its Planning Board reviews subdivision plats and development applications.
Daniels County Planning ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Montana rules that apply here

Building permitLimited
State building permits for construction, remodeling, moving, or change of occupancy in areas under state jurisdiction, including areas without a certified local program.
- A state building permit is required before construction for certain new buildings and for certain alterations, additions, and repairs.
- Building permits must be issued before plumbing, mechanical, or electrical permits can be issued or related work can start.
- State-jurisdiction exemptions include farm and ranch buildings; mining buildings on mining property; petroleum refineries and pulp and paper mills except office and shop buildings; residential buildings containing fewer than five dwelling units except when serving transient guests; and private garages and private storage buildings used for the owner's own use and not part of a commercial enterprise or business.
- Projects within a certified local-government program are excluded from the state permit 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.”
Building Permits ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — State building permits for construction in Daniels County where no certified local-government program or statutory exemption applies.
  “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.”
  Building Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Limited — State building permits for non-exempt construction in Montana outside a certified local-government program.
  “a state building permit is required prior to the start of construction”
  Building Permits ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
- 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.”
  Building Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionAvailable
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.
- The exemption does not apply to an owner otherwise covered by the chapter who constructs a residence on the owner's property intending and for the purpose of promptly selling the improved property.
- For an owner working on the owner's property, the resale exception does not apply if the owner has continuously occupied the property as the owner's primary residence for at least the last 12 months.
- This is an exemption from the construction-contractor licensing chapter; it does not itself exempt a project from applicable building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or inspection requirements.
primary-residence occupancy period for resale exception: >= 12 months (The statute states the owner must have continuously occupied the property as the owner's primary residence for at least the last 12 months.)
“(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”
Montana Code Annotated, Title 37, Chapter 45, Construction Contractors ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
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.”
Current Codes ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Partial — State building-code jurisdiction relevant to Daniels County.
  “Prior to the start of construction for all state-owned agencies or non-exempt building being built, remodeled, moved, or undergoing a change of occupancy, except for projects located within the jurisdictional limits of a certified local government program.”
  Building Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — Montana's statewide building-code framework applicable in Daniels County.
  “the program is responsible for adopting a uniform state building code, which is enforced statewide for residential and commercial buildings across Montana.”
  Montana Building Codes Program ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — Montana-adopted building codes applicable in Daniels County areas under state jurisdiction.
  “All of the codes listed below are amended and adopted by: Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) Title 24, Chapter 301 International Building Code, 2024 Edition - Effective: September 26, 2026 International Residential Code, 2024 Edition - Effective: September 26, 2026”
  Current Codes ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
- 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.”
  Montana Building Codes Program ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
InspectionsLimited
Building inspections under Montana's state building-code program.
- The state program performs inspections for projects requiring a permit.
- Local certified programs may enforce codes and perform inspections instead.
- The exact Daniels County jurisdictional assignment was not established on the county pages reviewed.
“The BC Program establishes and enforces statewide codes by issuing permits and performing inspections.”
Montana Building Codes Program ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Inspections for projects requiring a Montana state building permit.
  “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.”
  Building Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Required — Inspections for Montana state-building-permit projects.
  “provide access for required inspections.”
  Building Permits ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
- 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.”
  Building Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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.”
50-60-107. Certificate of occupancy, MCA ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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”
Camping ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
76-2-302. Zoning districts, MCA ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
76-2-215. Accessory dwelling units -- regulations -- restrictions, MCA ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
  76-2-345. Accessory dwelling units -- regulations -- restrictions, MCA ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
Exempt Well Updates and Information ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Groundwater wells and other groundwater developments in Montana, including Daniels County.
  “A person is not required to apply for a permit [...] Beginning on January 1, 2026, appropriators are required to notify DNRC”
  Exceptions To Permit Requirements ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
- 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.”
  Exempt Well Updates and Information ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Agricultural exemptionAvailable
State building-permit exemptions for farm and ranch buildings in Daniels County where state jurisdiction applies.
- The exemption is from the need to obtain a state building permit.
- A local government may have separate authority or requirements.
- Other permits, codes, or land-use rules may still apply.
“In the State's jurisdiction, state law exempts the following from the need to obtain state building permits: 1. farm and ranch buildings”
Building Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Conditional — Farm and ranch buildings under Montana's state building-permit jurisdiction.
  “In the State's jurisdiction, state law exempts the following from the need to obtain state building permits: [...] farm and ranch buildings”
  Building permit exemptions ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
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.”
Approach Manual for Landowners and Developers ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Building in a floodplainRequired
New development within a designated Special Flood Hazard Area in Montana.
- The applicant must check with the local floodplain administrator to determine whether an SFHA has been designated.
- Covered development includes placement of fill, roads, bridges, culverts, transmission lines, irrigation facilities, storage of equipment or materials, excavation, new construction or development, placement or replacement of manufactured homes, and new construction, additions, or substantial improvements to residential and commercial buildings.
- Permit applications are obtained from the local floodplain administrator.
- Application fees and timelines are established by the local government and vary widely throughout the state.
“Anyone planning new development within a designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA).”
Stream Permitting ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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”
Property Management Program ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
State building permit fees for projects subject to Montana state building permits.
- The building permit fee is calculated by the bureau under IBC Section 109.2 as modified by ARM 24.301.138.
- A plan-review fee is additional and equals 35 percent of the building permit fee.
- Both fees must be paid before issuance.
- Certified local governments may establish their own fees and valuation method.
plan review fee: 35 percent of building permit fee (In addition to the building permit fee.)
“A plan review fee must be paid in addition to the building permit fee. The plan review fee is 35 percent of the building permit fee as established in Table 109.2. Both the building permit fee and the plan review fee must be paid before a building permit will be issued.”
Building Permit Frequently Asked Questions ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Variable (with conditions) — State building permit and plan-review fees for state-administered building permits.
  “The plan review fee is 35 percent of the building permit fee as established in Table 109.2.”
  bsd.dli.mt.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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;”
Public Use Rules and Regulations ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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”
  Camping ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
76-2-201. County zoning authorized, MCA ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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”
  Montana’s 2019 Land Use & Planning Statutes ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
50-60-301. County, city, and town building codes authorized ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
  50-60-301. County, city, and town building codes authorized, MCA ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Zoning districts — Published zoning-district map or district schedule for Daniels County.
Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Daniels County.
Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in Daniels County.
Setbacks — Building and wastewater setbacks in Daniels County.
Lot coverage — Lot-coverage requirements in Daniels County.

6 more unanswered

Building height
Camping on your land
Tiny homes
Septic inspection
Off-grid sanitation
Mandatory utility hookup

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 Daniels County, Montana

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

Daniels County scores 44/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 1,389 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 14.5″ of rain a year, in severe drought 20.6% of years.

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

Daniels County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Montana DEQ (Sanitation in Subdivisions Act; local Septic Construction Authorization). 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 Daniels County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Daniels 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 Daniels County, Montana?

Land in Daniels County runs about $1,076 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Daniels County?

Daniels County gets about 14.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 20.6% of years.

How remote is Daniels County?

A typical private-land location has about 1,389 people within 15 miles and 109,571 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

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

At a glance

Who to call

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

Who handles building and development permits in Daniels County?

Does Daniels County, Montana have zoning?

How do septic permits work in Daniels County?

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Daniels County?

Building a home in Daniels County: what are the steps?

What should you check before buying land in Daniels County?

Watch-outs

Sources

Compared with neighboring counties

Daniels County in Montana

How Daniels County scores

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Parcel due diligence

Cities and towns in Daniels County

Answers from the rulebook for Daniels County

Daniels County rules

Montana rules that apply here

Still unanswered

Living off-grid in Daniels County, Montana

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

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

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

How much does land cost in Daniels County, Montana?

What is the water situation in Daniels County?

How remote is Daniels County?

How Daniels compares in Montana