Shed Permits in Montana

When it comes to constructing sheds in Montana, understanding the intricacies of shed permits is essential. Shed permits play a crucial role in ensuring that construction adheres to local regulations, zoning requirements, and safety standards. This article provides a comprehensive guide to shed permits in Montana, offering insights into the permit requirements, application process, and potential consequences of non-compliance.

If you are a Montana resident and looking to add a shed to your property, the first step is understanding whether you need to adhere to city or state regulations. I recommend checking the local shed regulations first. If your city doesn’t have specific regulations for sheds, you should then look into countywide regulations. In case your county also lacks shed regulations, you would need to follow the state regulations for sheds.

Click to view links for counties and cities in Montana regarding shed permits.

Statewide Shed Permits in Montana

Are There Building Permits in Montana?

Yes, there are building permits in Montana, just as there are in most states in the United States. In the state of Montana, permits and codes for sheds fall under building codes and regulations

Building permits  are regulations and standards set by state and local governments to ensure the safety, health, and general welfare of the public when it comes to construction and building projects. 

In Montana, building (shed) codes are typically adopted and enforced at the local level, meaning that different cities and counties within the state might have their own specific codes and regulations. These codes are often based on nationally recognized model codes, such as the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC), which provide comprehensive guidelines for various types of construction projects.

What Requires a Shed Permit in Montana?

A building (shed) permit from the state is necessary before commencing construction on any non-exempt structure, whether it’s new, being renovated, relocated, or changing its purpose. This rule applies unless the project falls within the boundaries of a certified local government program.

What is the Maximum Shed Size Without a Permit in Montana?

A shed permit is necessary for sheds exceeding 200 sq ft in size on your property in most of Montana’s counties and cities. Here are the pertinent details:

Exempt vs. Non-Exempt Sheds

While specific measurements may vary by jurisdiction within Montana, exempt sheds typically adhere to the following criteria: the maximum shed size without a permit.

Size: When planning shed construction, homeowners must consider the “maximum shed size without permit in Montana.” Typically, exempt sheds occupy 100 to 200 sq ft, respecting neighboring boundaries with their compact footprint.

Height: In terms of height, exempt sheds typically conform to set limitations, usually falling within the range of 10 to 12 feet. This limitation ensures a harmonious neighborhood by preventing the creation of overly tall structures that could disrupt the area’s aesthetic.

However, for larger sheds surpassing the “maximum shed size without permit in Montana,” they fall under the non-exempt category. These structures exceed the size and height criteria for exemption, requiring the proper permits before construction begins. The non-exempt shed permitting process is carefully structured to ensure compliance with zoning regulations, property setback mandates, and prevailing building codes.

If you’re still uncertain about whether your construction requires a state building permit, you can reach out to the Building Codes Bureau at (406) 841-2056. They can provide you with detailed information about the shed permitting process in Montana.

Which Shed Sizes Do Not Require Shed Permits in Montana?

If the shed’s size exceeds 200 sq ft, obtaining a permit is necessary for having a shed on your property. Below are shed sizes smaller than 200 sq ft that do not require a shed permit in Montana.

What Fees Are Required For Shed Permits in Montana?

The bureau calculates the Building Permit fee, usually 1% to 2% of the assessed building value, covering all construction aspects like finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, elevators, fire systems, and permanent equipment. 

Additionally, sheds under 200 sq ft may not require a permit but can have associated fees.

How Much Does a Shed Permit Cost in Montana?

The cost of a shed permit in Montana can significantly differ based on the valuation of the structure. For buildings valued at $1 to $500, the fee is $23.50. For structures valued between $501 and $2000, there’s a charge of $23.50 for the first $500 of value, and an additional $3.05 for each subsequent $100 of value. Therefore, if the building is valued at $2000, the total fee would amount to approximately $70.

Shed Permits Application Process In Montana

• Gathering Necessary Information: To start the shed permit application process, gather the required documents and information. This typically includes filling out application forms, providing a detailed site plan showcasing shed dimensions and location, as well as ownership details.

• Submission Procedure : Depending on the jurisdiction, you might be able to submit your shed permit application online or in person. Be prepared to pay the relevant application fees, which can vary based on the size and scope of your shed project.

• Review and Approval: Once submitted, your application will undergo review by the local planning department. This review assesses your shed plans for compliance with zoning regulations, property setbacks, and building codes. Ensuring that your plans align with these regulations will facilitate a smoother approval process.

• Environmental Impact Assessment: In some cases, particularly when constructing larger sheds, an environmental impact assessment may be required. This assessment evaluates the potential impact of your shed construction on the local environment and suggests measures for minimizing any negative effects.

Considerations For Sheds Not Meeting Regulations In Montana

If your shed in Montana does not meet regulations, there are several considerations you should keep in mind. Building regulations are put in place to ensure safety, zoning compliance, and the overall well-being of the community. 

Here are some steps and considerations to take if your shed doesn’t meet regulations in Montana:

Review Local Regulations: Start by reviewing your local building codes, zoning ordinances, and regulations. Different counties and municipalities within Montana may have varying requirements. You can often find this information on your local government’s website or by contacting your local building department.

Understand Violations: Identify exactly which regulations your shed is not meeting. This could include setbacks from property lines, size limitations, height restrictions, building materials, and more.

Modify or Relocate: Depending on the specific regulations your shed is violating, you may need to modify the shed to bring it into compliance. This could involve resizing, repositioning, or altering the structure in other ways. If your shed is significantly non-compliant, you might need to consider relocating it to a spot on your property that meets regulations.

Seek Legal Advice: If your shed’s non-compliance is complex or involves legal matters, it might be beneficial to consult with a real estate attorney or a land-use professional. They can provide advice on your options and the best course of action.

County and City Shed permits in Montana

So far, we have acquired an understanding of the shed regulations that apply across the entire state of Montana. As previously mentioned, it’s important to note that certain regions may require adherence to shed regulations specific to counties or cities. Below is a compilation of some of the Montana counties and cities links where Montana Shed Center maintains sales lots.

Can You Build Without a Shed Permit in Montana?

Commencing construction without a building permit is not allowed according to the Building Code. Nonetheless, due to Montana’s limited construction-friendly weather, it’s possible to make specific agreements with the bureau. These arrangements might permit the initiation of footing or foundation work before the actual permit is granted.

What Happens If I Don’t Obtain Permission for My Shed?

The reason permits are required is to guarantee safety for both you and your neighbors. Constructing a storage shed without obtaining the required permit exposes you to the potential consequences outlined below:

• Substantial fines
• Grievances from neighbors
• Placing a lien on your property
• Penalties enforced by the Homeowner’s Association
• Structural issues
• You might face the necessity to relocate or rebuild your shed.

Conclusion 

In Montana, obtaining a shed permit involves a specific process to follow. You might need to secure your permit from your city, county, or, in the absence of local shed regulations, adhere to state guidelines. Notably, if the structure is smaller than 200 sq ft, a shed permit is not required. It’s important to be aware that fees are applicable based on the structure’s value. Remember, proceeding without a permit can lead to significant issues and potentially higher costs in the future.

Who We Are

Montana Shed Center is a shed manufacturing company situated in Montana, with additional sales lots in Montana itself, as well as in Utah, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Idaho. We specialize in providing customizable and durable structures such as sheds, garages, cabins, outdoor living spaces, greenhouses, and animal shelters, all designed to withstand the diverse weather conditions of the northwest. The company’s mission revolves around creating secure storage solutions, robust garages, healthy living spaces for animals, and more. If you’re interested in acquiring a shed from Montana Shed Center, you have the option to utilize their 3D design tool to tailor your own shed, along with the added advantage of their Rent-To-Own system. You can explore our range of sheds online or pay us a visit in person.

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