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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Billings, MT

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Occupancy is limited to 2 persons per bedroom; rentals are prohibited in accessory structures (garages/sheds) or unfinished spaces. Units must have a 24-hour local contact, posted safety info (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers), and follow city noise ordinances (quiet hours 8 PM - 7 AM). Parking must prioritize private driveways over on-street parking.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Apply online via the City Citizen Access portal (services.billingsmt.gov/citizenaccess) by selecting the 'SHORT TERM RENTAL' permit type. 2. Complete the application form, provide local 24-hour contact info, and pay the required fees (contact Planning at 406-657-8247 for current fee). 3. Obtain a City of Billings business license for STR management and renew the permit annually.

Official Resources

Official Billings STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Billings, MT?
Yes — Airbnb and other short-term rentals are allowed in Billings, MT, but operators must obtain a permit before listing. Occupancy is limited to 2 persons per bedroom; rentals are prohibited in accessory structures (garages/sheds) or unfinished spaces. Units must have a 24-hour local contact, posted safety info (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers), and follow city noise ordinances (quiet hours 8 PM - 7 AM). Parking must prioritize private driveways over on-street parking. "Airbnb" is a brand name; the rules on this page apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.). See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Billings, MT?
Occupancy is limited to 2 persons per bedroom; rentals are prohibited in accessory structures (garages/sheds) or unfinished spaces. Units must have a 24-hour local contact, posted safety info (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers), and follow city noise ordinances (quiet hours 8 PM - 7 AM). Parking must prioritize private driveways over on-street parking.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Billings?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Billings. 1. Apply online via the City Citizen Access portal (services.billingsmt.gov/citizenaccess) by selecting the 'SHORT TERM RENTAL' permit type. 2. Complete the application form, provide local 24-hour contact info, and pay the required fees (contact Planning at 406-657-8247 for current fee). 3. Obtain a City of Billings business license for STR management and renew the permit annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Billings?
1. Apply online via the City Citizen Access portal (services.billingsmt.gov/citizenaccess) by selecting the 'SHORT TERM RENTAL' permit type. 2. Complete the application form, provide local 24-hour contact info, and pay the required fees (contact Planning at 406-657-8247 for current fee). 3. Obtain a City of Billings business license for STR management and renew the permit annually.
Is Vrbo legal in Billings, MT?
Yes. Vrbo operates under the same short-term rental rules as Airbnb in Billings, MT, since regulations apply to the rental activity rather than the booking platform. A permit is required before you list on Vrbo or any other platform. Last verified 2026-05-14.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Billings?
Short-term rental hosts in Billings are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Billings?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Billings. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.
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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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction