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Missoula

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Missoula, MT

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STR Regulations for Missoula, Montana

Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Missoula, MT?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Missoula, Montana. The city has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for short-term rentals (STRs) that permits their operation with proper registration and compliance. Missoula defines a Short-Term Rental as any dwelling unit rented for less than 28 consecutive days where the renter/guest has a principal residence other than the short-term rental.

Key Distinction: Short-term rental regulations do not apply to the rental of less than a full dwelling unit, such as the rental of rooms in an owner-occupied home. However, entire home rentals and tourist homes (dwelling units used most of the time as short-term rentals where no one lives long-term as a primary residence) are fully regulated.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Missoula

Starting a compliant short-term rental business in Missoula requires navigating a multi-step process that includes registration, licensing, and ongoing compliance. Here's a comprehensive approach:

Step 1: Research and Preparation

  • Verify Zoning Compliance: Confirm your property's zoning allows short-term rental operations
  • Review Homeowners Association (HOA) Covenants: While the city doesn't govern these agreements, HOAs may prohibit STR operations
  • Assess Property Suitability: Ensure your property meets safety and habitability requirements

Step 2: Create City Account and Apply

  • Portal Access: Create an account on the Missoula Accela Permit & Licensing Portal
  • Application Preparation: Gather all required documentation before starting your application
  • Complete Online Application: The application process takes at least 20 minutes but can be saved and resumed

Step 3: Submit Required Documentation

  • Complete safety self-inspection checklist
  • Submit neighbor notification (if applicable for tourist homes in residential districts)
  • Provide hosting platform listing URL (if available)

Step 4: Payment and Review

  • Pay registration fees using Visa or Mastercard
  • Submit application for review
  • Respond promptly to any staff requests for additional information

Step 5: License Issuue and Operations

  • Receive your Short-Term Rental Number (format: 20YY-MSS-STR-00###)
  • Share registration number with hosting platforms
  • Begin operations upon license approval

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

City of Missoula Requirements

Short-Term Rental Registration

  • Cost: $636 (2025 fee)
  • Renewal: Required annually by January 31st
  • Application Process: Online through Accela Portal
  • Registration Number Format: 20YY-MSS-STR-00###

Required Documentation:

  • Property ownership verification
  • Zoning designation confirmation
  • Dwelling unit description including square footage
  • Hosting platform listing URL (if available)
  • Safety Self-Inspection Checklist
  • Neighbor Notification (for tourist homes in residential zoning districts)

Health Department License

Public Accommodations License

  • Issued by: Missoula City-County Health Department
  • Cost: $200 base fee + potential $50 for water/wastewater review
  • Requirements: Plan review approval and successful pre-operational inspection
  • Contact: (406) 258-4755 or envhealth@missoulacounty.us

State Level Requirements

Lodging Facility Sales and Use Tax Account

  • Issued by: Montana Department of Revenue
  • Contact: 1-800-859-2254
  • Registration: Required before collecting taxes from guests
  • Platforms: Major platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo may collect these taxes on your behalf, but operators remain responsible for compliance

Montana State License Fee

  • Cost: $40 annually for single Tourist Home
  • Payable to: Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)
  • Collection: Typically collected by Missoula City-County Health Department after plan review approval

Supporting Forms and Checklists

  • Short-Term Rental Safety Self-Inspection Checklist and Acknowledgment
  • Short-Term Rental - Tourist Home Neighbor Notification (for residential zoning)

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals in Missoula

City of Missoula Regulations

Operational Requirements:

  • Occupancy Period: Rentals must be for less than 28 consecutive days
  • Maximum Occupancy: Generally limited to two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with maximum 12 occupants total
  • Registration Display: STR registration numbers must be displayed in all listings
  • Annual Renewal: Required by January 31st each year

Tourist Home Specific Requirements:

  • Neighbor Notification: Required for tourist homes in residential (R) zoning districts during application process
  • Zoning Compliance: Tourist homes must comply with Title 20 zoning code
  • Definition: Tourist homes are dwelling units used most of the time as short-term rentals where no one lives as primary residence

Safety and Compliance Requirements:

  • Smoke detectors in all bedrooms and common areas
  • Carbon monoxide detectors for properties with gas appliances or fireplaces
  • Fire extinguishers on each level
  • Emergency exit plans
  • Maximum occupancy limits based on property size and bedroom count
  • Clear emergency egress paths

Missoula County Regulations

Additional Compliance:

  • Public Accommodations License requirements
  • Waste management protocols
  • Potable water and wastewater disposal standards

State of Montana Regulations

Statewide Requirements:

  • Public Accommodation License: Required for all short-term rental operators
  • Tax Obligations:
    • 4% Lodging Facility Use Tax
    • 4% Lodging Sales Tax
  • Guest Registry: Required maintenance
  • Basic Standards: Potable water, wastewater disposal, hygienic amenities, property maintenance

Hosting Platform Requirements:

  • Starting December 5, 2024, hosting platforms must verify registration numbers before allowing bookings
  • Platforms must collect the listing's City of Missoula Short Term Rental Registration number
  • Non-compliant listings may be removed by platforms

Zoning and Density Restrictions

Residential Zone Considerations:

  • Tourist homes in residential districts require neighbor notification
  • No specific density limitations mentioned, but general zoning compliance required
  • Properties must comply with Title 20 zoning code requirements

Enforcement and Penalties

City Enforcement Actions:

  • Registration revocation for repeated violations
  • Suspension or revocation for permits issued in error or based on incorrect information
  • Fines and penalties for unregistered operations
  • Platform cooperation for compliance monitoring

Reporting Violations:

  • Unregistered STRs: Contact Development Services at (406) 552-6630
  • Nuisance Complaints: Missoula City Police Non-emergency (406) 258-3452
  • Emergencies: 911

Contact Information for Local Authorities

City of Missoula

Permit & Business Licensing Coordinators

  • Phone: (406) 552-6060
  • Email: coordinators@ci.missoula.mt.us
  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Purpose: Primary contact for STR registration and licensing questions

Current Planning & Land Use - Zoning Desk

Development Services

  • General Inquiries: (406) 552-6630
  • Purpose: Code compliance and enforcement

General City Contact

  • Address: 435 Ryman St., Missoula, MT 59802
  • Phone: (406) 552-6000
  • TTY: (406) 552-6131

Missoula City-County Health Department

Environmental Health

  • Address: 301 W Alder, Missoula
  • Phone: (406) 258-4755
  • Email: envhealth@missoulacounty.us
  • Purpose: Public Accommodations License and health-related questions

State of Montana

Montana Department of Revenue

  • Phone: 1-800-859-2254 (Citizen Services Call Center)
  • Purpose: Tax registration and lodging tax questions

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

  • Contact: Typically handled through local health department
  • Purpose: State-level licensing requirements

Source Links and Additional Resources

Official City of Missoula Resources

Health Department Resources

State Resources

Third-Party Resources

Supporting Documents

News and Updates

Important Note for Investors: This regulatory framework represents Missoula's current approach to balancing tourism opportunities with residential housing preservation. The city's position as a university community and recreational destination creates a unique market dynamic that requires careful compliance to ensure sustainable operations. Regular review of city communications and updates to regulations is essential for long-term success in Missoula's short-term rental

Missoula

Market Saturation Score

036912
Mild Saturation
3/ 12
months with declining YoY revenue
2–4 declining months: early saturation pressure - watch for trend persistence.
View Full Missoula Market Analysis →

Photos of Missoula

Overview of Missoula

Missoula, Montana, often referred to as the "Garden City" due to its lush green landscape, lies in the western part of the state. With a population of approximately 75,000 residents, Missoula is the second-largest city in Montana. It is situated around 140 miles northwest of the state's largest city, Billings, and is about 200 miles east of Spokane, Washington.

Missoula boasts numerous landmarks and attractions that draw visitors year-round, making it a desirable location for short-term rentals. The presence of the University of Montana adds a vibrant, college-town atmosphere to the city, fostering an array of cultural and sporting events.

Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers are drawn to Missoula’s surrounding natural beauty. The city provides easy access to the Clark Fork River, which cuts through the heart of Missoula and is popular for fishing, kayaking, and riverfront trails. Not far south, visitors can explore Lolo National Forest (www.fs.usda.gov/lolo), an expansive area offering hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Missoula is also home to several notable cultural and recreational landmarks. A key attraction is the historical Caras Park (www.missoulaparks.org/facilities/facility/details/Caras-Park-5), a downtown riverside park that hosts events and festivals throughout the year. Art aficionados will appreciate the Missoula Art Museum (missoulaartmuseum.org/), which showcases contemporary American Indian and Montana artists.

Other attractions include the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (www.rmef.org/), which promotes conservation efforts and offers educational exhibits and wildlife experiences. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s unique shopping districts and vibrant local food scene, best sampled at the Missoula Farmers Market (missoulafarmersmarket.com/).

With a healthy mix of outdoor activities, cultural events, and a robust local economy, Missoula provides a compelling appeal for short-term rentals, catering to a diverse range of visitors.

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