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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Big Sky, MT

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (30 days or less) are allowed as a permitted use in specific Gallatin Canyon/Big Sky zoning districts (e.g., R-MF 3500, R-SF 7500, C-I). In other districts, they may be a conditional use requiring a permit and public hearing, or not permitted if not listed; unzoned areas have no county zoning restrictions.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Verify zoning via the Gallatin County Interactive Mapper or Property Information Request Form. 2) Obtain necessary zoning approval (Permitted Use or Conditional Use Permit). 3) Apply for a Public Accommodations License through the Gallatin City-County Health Department, including a plan review, water/wastewater summary, and fire safety checklist.

Regulatory Updates — Big Sky

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedAugust 2024

Gallatin County STR Permit System Updated

Gallatin County updated its STR permit system to include enhanced safety inspections, occupancy limits, and neighbor notification requirements for new Big Sky applications.

Under ReviewFebruary 2025

Big Sky Community Housing Trust Push

The Big Sky Community Housing Trust advocated for STR restrictions to free up housing inventory for year-round workers, with county support for reviewing permit cap levels.

PassedMay 2024

Montana Lodging Facility Use Tax Enforcement

Montana's Department of Revenue increased enforcement of lodging facility use tax collection for Big Sky STRs, requiring operators to register and remit taxes directly.

Official Resources

Official Big Sky STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Montana Association of REALTORSStatewide

Statewide REALTOR association monitoring property and rental regulations across Montana.

Big Sky Chamber of CommerceLocal

Local chamber representing Big Sky businesses, including resort and vacation rental operators.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade organization for professional vacation rental managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Big Sky, MT?
Short-term rentals (30 days or less) are allowed as a permitted use in specific Gallatin Canyon/Big Sky zoning districts (e.g., R-MF 3500, R-SF 7500, C-I). In other districts, they may be a conditional use requiring a permit and public hearing, or not permitted if not listed; unzoned areas have no county zoning restrictions.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Big Sky?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Big Sky. 1) Verify zoning via the Gallatin County Interactive Mapper or Property Information Request Form. 2) Obtain necessary zoning approval (Permitted Use or Conditional Use Permit). 3) Apply for a Public Accommodations License through the Gallatin City-County Health Department, including a plan review, water/wastewater summary, and fire safety checklist.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Big Sky?
1) Verify zoning via the Gallatin County Interactive Mapper or Property Information Request Form. 2) Obtain necessary zoning approval (Permitted Use or Conditional Use Permit). 3) Apply for a Public Accommodations License through the Gallatin City-County Health Department, including a plan review, water/wastewater summary, and fire safety checklist.
Do I need a permit to rent my Big Sky property short-term?
Yes. Gallatin County requires a short-term rental permit for all properties rented for fewer than 30 days in Big Sky. You must also register to collect and remit Montana's lodging facility use tax.
Is Big Sky incorporated as a city with its own STR rules?
No. Big Sky is an unincorporated community governed by Gallatin County. There is no separate Big Sky city government — all STR regulations come from Gallatin County.
Is the STR permit situation in Big Sky likely to get stricter?
Yes. Workforce housing pressure is significant and growing. The Big Sky Community Housing Trust and county planners have discussed permit caps, and the political direction strongly favors tighter restrictions.
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Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction