Bolthole Index

Roosevelt County, Montana

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

52Index Score / 100
#39 of 56 in Montana

In unincorporated Roosevelt County, Montana, a single-family home under state jurisdiction does not need a state building permit; covered non-exempt projects do1. Inside Culbertson, the town requires building permits for all construction2. Roosevelt County Land Planning handles county zoning questions, while septic permits come from the county Sanitarian and development in regulated flood-hazard areas needs floodplain approval345.

At a glance

Building permit
Single-family homes and small residential buildings are state-exempt; covered non-exempt projects need a state permit16
Building inspections
Required for projects that need a state building permit7
Zoning
Culbertson and Wolf Point administer municipal zoning; rural countywide coverage remains unconfirmed89310
Septic
A local drainfield permit is required through the Roosevelt County Sanitarian114
RV living
Countywide rules are unconfirmed; flood-hazard areas restrict longer-term placement1012
Tiny homes
Countywide occupancy rules remain unconfirmed; zoning, septic and floodplain rules may apply1045
Owner-builder
Owners have a contractor-license exemption, not a permit exemption13

Who to call

Building permits

Montana Building Codes Program

State building permits, plan review and permit questions for covered non-exempt projects in state-administered areas

(406) 841-2056

buildingcodes@mt.gov

301 South Park Ave. Floors 4 and 5 Helena, MT 59620

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Roosevelt County Land Planning

Project review, subdivisions, zoning changes, variances and special-use permits

Septic permits

Roosevelt County Sanitarian

Onsite wastewater review, permitting, site evaluation and installation inspection

(406) 925 1058

Floodplain permits

Roosevelt County Disaster and Emergency Services

County floodplain regulations and referral to the Floodplain Administrator

(406)653-6224

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Roosevelt 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 Roosevelt County, Montana?

A single-family home in unincorporated Roosevelt County under state jurisdiction does not need a Montana state building permit1. Residential buildings with fewer than five dwelling units are also exempt unless they serve transient guests, as are qualifying private garages and storage buildings6. Farm and ranch buildings under state jurisdiction are exempt from state building permits; that agricultural exemption does not remove septic, floodplain or subdivision requirements14. Covered non-exempt construction needs a state building permit before work begins, and separate electrical, plumbing or mechanical permits may apply615. Inside Culbertson, the town requires building permits for all construction, including decks, fences and sheds2. Septic permits remain with the Roosevelt County Sanitarian411.

Who issues building permits in Roosevelt County, Montana?

Roosevelt County has no county building department; covered non-exempt projects in state-administered territory go to the Montana Building Codes Program1617. Reach the state office at (406) 841-2056 or buildingcodes@mt.gov for project classification and its online application route18. Submit construction plans and a Building Permit/Plan Review Application; issuance follows written resolution of plan-review comments and payment of fees, with plan review averaging 3 weeks19. The state calculates the building-permit fee from construction valuation, including finish work, building systems and permanent equipment, and adds a plan-review fee of 35 percent of the building-permit fee20. Both fees are due before issuance; certified local governments may use their own fees and valuation methods21. State-permitted projects require the permit holder to notify the inspector when work is ready and provide access7.

Does Roosevelt County, Montana have zoning?

Roosevelt County Land Planning reviews projects and processes zoning changes, variances, special-use permits and subdivision applications, but the published description does not establish which unincorporated areas are zoned3. We could not confirm a countywide rural zoning ordinance or countywide setbacks, minimum dwelling size, lot coverage and height limits; ask Land Planning about the specific parcel and use1022. Inside Wolf Point, the Public Works Director serves as the city Zoning Administrator; Culbertson also has municipal zoning98. Septic permits remain with the Roosevelt County Sanitarian411. Culbertson’s growth policy says the county has no zoning outside town limits within that planning area, which does not settle zoning elsewhere in Roosevelt County8. Covered subdivisions may also need Montana sanitation approval23.

How do septic permits work in Roosevelt County, Montana?

The Roosevelt County Sanitarian reviews and permits onsite wastewater systems and provides installation inspections under state minimum standards and local regulations11. A local drainfield permit is required even when a Montana Certificate of Subdivision Approval already exists24. Only 7.5% of Roosevelt County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so arrange a site evaluation before choosing a house site25. Reach the Sanitarian at (406) 925 105826. We could not confirm whether alternative off-grid sanitation is allowed; describe the proposed system to the Sanitarian before purchase or design26.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Roosevelt County, Montana?

We could not confirm a countywide Roosevelt County rule for long-term RV occupancy on private land or a rule specifically governing tiny-home occupancy.10 Within a regulated flood-hazard area, however, an RV kept on site for more than 180 days or not ready for highway use must meet the residential manufactured-home requirements.12 New, altered, replacement or substantially improved manufactured homes in those areas must satisfy the floodplain residential-building rules.27 Ask Land Planning about zoning, subdivision or special-use restrictions and ask the Sanitarian how wastewater must be handled.224 A small dwelling may fit the state building-permit exemption, but that does not decide zoning, sanitation or floodplain approval.6

What are the steps to build a home in Roosevelt County, Montana?

  1. Ask Roosevelt County Land Planning about parcel-specific zoning, subdivision conditions and special-use approvals328.
  1. Ask the Montana Building Codes Program whether the proposed structures need state building or trade permits; inside Culbertson, apply to the town for its building permit1152.
  1. Arrange the Roosevelt County Sanitarian’s site review and obtain the local drainfield permit before installation114.
  1. Contact county Disaster and Emergency Services about regulated flood-hazard development; the floodplain application needs a signed form, review fee, scaled plans and other applicable approvals2930. Floodplain review includes at least 15 days for public comment, with a decision generally due within 180 days of a correct and complete application31.
  1. Obtain state authorization for a new or modified state-highway driveway approach32.
  1. For state-permitted construction, resolve plan comments, pay fees and request required inspections197.

What should you check before buying land in Roosevelt County?

Make septic feasibility a purchase contingency: only 7.5% of Roosevelt County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field25. Check regulated flood-hazard status before development; floodplain approval does not replace other required approvals5. For a well, Montana requires a water-use permit above 35 gallons per minute or 10 acre-feet per year; smaller groundwater uses may qualify for an exception3334. Beginning in 2026, the exception requires a Notice of Intent to DNRC before using water, with a $400 filing fee34. We could not confirm mandatory utility-connection requirements or county-road driveway permitting; ask Land Planning for the responsible office and identify the water provider before closing22. New or modified state-highway approaches require state authorization32.

Watch-outs

  • Farm, ranch and small-residential state building-permit exemptions do not waive applicable septic, floodplain, subdivision, zoning or trade requirements14615.
  • Rural zoning coverage, setbacks, minimum home size and RV or tiny-home occupancy outside regulated flood-hazard areas remain unconfirmed; ask Roosevelt County Land Planning about the parcel and proposed use101222.
  • Only 7.5% of Roosevelt County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so verify a workable site before buying.25

Sources

  1. Certified City, County and Town Programs, quoted and re-checked
  2. Town of Culbertson: FAQ | Town of Culbertson (Roosevelt County), quoted and re-checked
  3. Land Planning, quoted and re-checked
  4. Engineering Infrastructure & Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  5. Roosevelt County Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  6. Certified City, County and Town Programs, quoted and re-checked
  7. Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  8. Town of Culbertson: Culbertson Growth Policy (Roosevelt County), quoted and re-checked
  9. Wolf Point: Public Works Director (Roosevelt County), quoted and re-checked
  10. (2026 county census)
  11. Sanitarian, quoted and re-checked
  12. Roosevelt County Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  13. Montana Code Annotated, Title 37, Chapter 45, Construction Contractors (Montana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Permits (Montana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. MT DLI Certified City, County and Town Programs (2026 county census)
  17. Certified City, County and Town Programs, quoted and re-checked
  18. Montana Building Codes Program (bsd.dli.mt.gov)
  19. Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  20. bsd.dli.mt.gov, quoted and re-checked
  21. Building Permit Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  22. Roosevelt County Land Planning (rooseveltcountymt.gov)
  23. Land Planning, quoted and re-checked
  24. Engineering Infrastructure & Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  25. 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
  26. Roosevelt County Sanitarian (rooseveltcountymt.gov)
  27. Roosevelt County Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  28. Land Planning, quoted and re-checked
  29. Roosevelt County Disaster and Emergency Services (rooseveltcountymt.gov)
  30. Roosevelt County Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  31. Roosevelt County Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  32. Approach Manual for Landowners and Developers (Montana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Exempt Well Updates and Information (Montana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Exempt Well Updates and Information (Montana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 11, 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.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 4 of its 6 neighbors, Roosevelt County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleRoosevelt CountySheridan CountyDaniels CountyRichland CountyMcCone CountyDawson CountyValley County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredRequiredNot requiredLimitedNot required
County zoningNot publishedNoYesYesNoYesNo
Septic permitsCounty SanitarianCounty SanitarianMT DEQCounty Health Dept.County SanitarianCounty SanitarianCounty Sanitation Dept.

County locator

Roosevelt County in Montana

52
County map
Roosevelt County highlighted among the Montana counties · colored by Index score

How Roosevelt County scores

Seclusion87100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency19100% ev.
Admin Boringness7168% ev.
Durability42100% ev.
Property Autonomy83100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% 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 →

$152kTypical home
1.3%Property tax
$1,108Land / acre
14"Annual rain
21.1% of yrsSevere drought
9.3 / yr (+7.1)Mid-century 100°F days
22.8 daysMid-century dry spell
1.07" (+5.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.3×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,431Home insurance / yr
3.8% / yrInsurance growth
0.94%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
1,354People within 30 min
62,617People within 2 hr
1,759Radius comparison (15 mi)
4.4People / sq mi
1.1%Federal land
88%Land at 15% slope or less
7.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
106,957 acWorkable land screen
0.5%Wooded land
21.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
41.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Roosevelt 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: Town of Bainville · Town of Froid · Poplar

Answers from the rulebook for Roosevelt County

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

Roosevelt County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Roosevelt County: the county processes zoning-related matters, while incorporated communities may administer their own zoning ordinances. The conclusion aggregates the county and municipal sources and does not mean Roosevelt County administers every municipal ordinance.

    • Roosevelt County's planning office processes requests for zoning changes and variances and special-use permits.
    • The Town of Bainville expressly maintains zoning codes and a Planning & Zoning Commission that reviews zoning-ordinance amendments, site plans, and plats.
    • The reviewed sources did not establish the corresponding tiny-home, manufactured-home, RV, or accessory-dwelling rules for each incorporated community.
    “The Town of Culbertson currently has municipal zoning [...] The County does not have any zoning outside the Town limits within the planning area boundary.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Local zoning administration and applications within Roosevelt County; this is an aggregate county claim and does not mean the county administers every municipal ordinance.
      “processing subdivision applications, applications for requests for zoning changes and variances, and special use permits.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Roosevelt County planning administration for proposed projects and requests for zoning changes, variances, and special use permits.
      “The Planner provides services to residents and developers by reviewing proposed projects and processing subdivision applications, applications for requests for zoning changes and variances, and special use permits.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles used for residential purposes within Roosevelt County's Regulated Flood Hazard Area.

    • Recreational vehicles on site for more than 180 days or not ready for highway use must meet the requirements for manufactured homes for residential use.
    • The cited rule is limited to the Regulated Flood Hazard Area and does not establish a countywide RV-occupancy rule outside that area.

    on-site duration: > 180 days (The rule also applies when the vehicle is not ready for highway use.)

    “Recreation Vehicles Recreational vehicles on site for more than 180 days or not ready for highway use must meet the requirements for manufactured homes for residential use.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes used for residential purposes within Roosevelt County's Regulated Flood Hazard Area.

    • New construction, alterations, and substantial improvements of residential manufactured homes, including replacements, must satisfy the floodplain residential-building requirements.
    • The cited restrictions apply within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area and do not establish a countywide manufactured-home placement rule outside that area.

    minimum elevation above Base Flood Elevation: >= 2 feet (Applies to the lowest floor, including attached garage or basement.)

    “two (2) feet or more above the Base Flood Elevation;”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    The Roosevelt County Sanitarian/local environmental-health function for onsite wastewater systems.

    • The county page states that work is performed in accordance with minimum state standards and local regulations.
    • The official state health-department directory lists a Roosevelt County Health Department and a county environmental-health contractor, Tumblewood Environmental Inc.
    “Onsite Wastewater Treatment Programs – Provides review, permitting and installation inspection of onsite wastewater systems in accordance with minimum state standards and local regulations.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of a drainfield or onsite wastewater system in Roosevelt County, including systems for which a Certificate of Subdivision Approval has already been issued.

    • A drainfield permit is required by the local health department even when a Certificate of Subdivision Approval (COSA) exists.
    • The Roosevelt County Sanitarian page states that permitting is performed in accordance with minimum state standards and local regulations.
    • The cited state page does not state an effective date, fee, or exemption for Roosevelt County.
    “Yes, even thought you have a COSA, a drainfield permit is still required by the local health department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Drainfield and onsite wastewater permits in Roosevelt County.
      “Yes, even thought you have a COSA, a drainfield permit is still required by the local health department.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision applications in Roosevelt County, including applicable flood-hazard-area subdivision review.

    • The county planner processes subdivision applications.
    • Within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area, Roosevelt County Subdivision Regulations apply in addition to the floodplain regulations.
    • The cited pages do not provide the complete subdivision application checklist, fees, or numeric lot standards.
    “The Planner provides services to residents and developers by reviewing proposed projects and processing subdivision applications, applications for requests for zoning changes and variances, and special use permits.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Subdivisions within Roosevelt County Regulated Flood Hazard Areas.
      “The requirements of the Roosevelt County Subdivision Regulations, in addition to those established in these regulations, apply to subdivisions within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area, including but not limited to new or expansion of existing manufactured home parks, must be designed to meet the following criteria:”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision applications in Roosevelt County.
      “The Planner provides services to residents and developers by reviewing proposed projects and processing subdivision applications, applications for requests for zoning changes and variances, and special use permits.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development, artificial obstructions, nonconforming uses, and substantial improvements within Roosevelt County's Regulated Flood Hazard Area.

    • A floodplain permit application must include a completed and signed application, required review fee, plans drawn to scale showing location, dimensions, and elevation, copies of other applicable permits or pending applications, and additional information demonstrating compliance with Sections 9 and 10.
    • The Floodplain Administrator reviews complete applications and approves, conditionally approves, or denies them within 180 days.
    • Approval does not replace other approvals required by state, federal, or local law.
    • A floodplain permit becomes valid when all other necessary federal or state permits are in place.
    • Residential buildings and manufactured homes generally require the lowest floor to be at least two feet above Base Flood Elevation; recreational vehicles on site more than 180 days or not ready for highway use must meet manufactured-home residential requirements.

    application decision deadline: 180 days (Runs from receipt of a correct and complete application.) · residential lowest floor elevation: >= 2 feet above Base Flood Elevation (Subject to the regulation's stated exceptions and requirements.)

    “A Floodplain permit application shall include, but is not limited to the following: 1. A completed and signed Floodplain Permit Application; 2. The required review fee; 3. Plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the location, dimensions, and elevation of the proposed project including landscape alterations, existing and proposed structures, and the location of the foregoing in relation to the Regulated Flood Hazard Areas and if applicable the Floodway boundary;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Development, new construction, alteration, or substantial improvement within Roosevelt County Regulated Flood Hazard Areas.
      “Development, New Construction, Alteration or Substantial Improvement may not commence without full compliance with the provisions of these regulations.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Floodplain permit applications in Roosevelt County Regulated Flood Hazard Areas.

    • The Floodplain Administrator may approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application.
    • The applicant must obtain all other permits required by federal or state law.
    • Notice includes newspaper publication, adjacent-owner mail, and state notification; interested parties receive at least 15 days to comment.
    • The decision is generally due within 180 days after receipt of a correct and complete application.

    public-comment period: >= 15 days · decision period: 180 days (unless otherwise specified)

    “The Floodplain Administrator shall approve, conditionally approve, or deny the proposed Floodplain permit application. The Floodplain Administrator shall notify the applicant of his action and the reasons thereof within 180 days of receipt of a correct and complete Floodplain permit application unless otherwise specified.”

Montana rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Non-exempt buildings built, remodeled, moved, or undergoing a change of occupancy in unincorporated Roosevelt County areas under state jurisdiction.

    • A state building permit is required before construction starts for covered non-exempt work.
    • The requirement excludes projects within the jurisdictional limits of a certified local-government program.
    • State exemptions include farm and ranch buildings, mining buildings on mining property, certain petroleum-refinery and pulp-and-paper-mill buildings, residential buildings containing fewer than five dwelling units except when serving transient guests, and qualifying private garages and storage buildings.
    • Required building permits must be issued before plumbing, mechanical, or electrical permits can be issued or related work can start.

    average plan review time: 3 weeks (The page says average; actual review may vary.)

    “a state building permit is required prior to the start of construction”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Construction in areas of Roosevelt County outside a certified local-government 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.”
    • 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

    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”
  • 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
    • Partial — State building-code jurisdiction applicable to non-certified areas of Roosevelt County, especially unincorporated areas outside certified local-government jurisdictions.
      “All of the codes listed below are amended and adopted by:”
    • 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

    Buildings and other projects requiring permits under Montana state building-code jurisdiction; certified local governments may perform inspections within their certified jurisdictional areas.

    • The Montana Building Codes Program performs inspections for projects requiring a permit under state jurisdiction.
    • The permit holder must notify the inspector when work is ready for inspection and provide access for required inspections.
    • Cities, counties, and towns may enforce local building codes and perform inspections only through certified local government programs; remaining areas fall under the state Building Codes Program.
    “The BC Program establishes and enforces statewide codes by issuing permits and performing inspections.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Required inspections for state-permitted, non-exempt construction in areas of Roosevelt County under state jurisdiction.
      “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.”
    • Required — Projects requiring a state building permit in unincorporated Roosevelt County areas under state jurisdiction.
      “provide access for required 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Farm and ranch buildings in areas of Roosevelt County under state building-code jurisdiction.

    • The exemption concerns the state building-permit requirement and does not establish exemption from septic, floodplain, subdivision, utility, or other applicable requirements.
    “In the State's jurisdiction, state law exempts the following from the need to obtain state building permits: 1. farm and ranch buildings”
  • 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”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    State building permits administered by the Montana Building Codes Program where a permit is required, including applicable areas outside certified local-government programs.

    • The bureau calculates the building-permit fee under IBC Section 109.2 as modified by ARM 24.301.138.
    • A plan-review fee equal to 35 percent of the building-permit fee is added.
    • Both the building-permit fee and plan-review fee must be paid before issuance.
    • Valuation includes all construction work, finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, fire-extinguishing systems, and other permanent equipment.
    • Certified local governments may establish their own permit fees and valuation method.
    • The state FAQ states that a building permit is not required for a single-family residence unless the residence is inside a local government jurisdiction that requires one by ordinance or resolution.

    plan review fee: 35 percent of building permit fee

    “The plan review fee is 35 percent of the building permit fee as established in Table 109.2.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Building permits administered by the Montana Building Codes Bureau, including areas under state jurisdiction when no certified local building-code program applies.
      “The fee for a building permit will be calculated by the bureau. [...] The plan review fee is 35 percent of the building permit fee”
    • Published (with conditions) — State building permits in Montana's jurisdiction, including applicable projects in Roosevelt County outside certified local-government jurisdictions.
      “The plan review fee is 35 percent of the building permit fee as established in Table 109.2.”
    • 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.”
  • 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 Roosevelt County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Roosevelt County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Roosevelt County.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in Roosevelt County.
  • Setbacks — Building setbacks in Roosevelt County.
7 more unanswered
  • Lot coverage
  • 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 Roosevelt County, Montana

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

Roosevelt County scores 52/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 1,354 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 14″ of rain a year, in severe drought 21.1% of years.

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

Roosevelt County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas. Onsite septic is permitted by Roosevelt County Sanitarian. 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 Roosevelt County?

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

Land in Roosevelt County runs about $1,108 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Roosevelt County?

Roosevelt County gets about 14" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 21.1% of years.

How remote is Roosevelt County?

A representative private-land location has about 1,354 people within a 30-minute drive and 62,617 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Roosevelt compares in Montana

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