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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Columbia Falls, MT

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are restricted by zoning district (permitted by right in commercial zones, requiring permits in residential/agricultural zones). Key requirements include obtaining a Montana Public Accommodation License (Tourist Home), limiting occupancy to sewage capacity, providing a 24/7 local contact reachable within one hour, and notifying neighbors within 150 feet via certified mail.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit a Short-Term Rental Application to Flathead County Planning & Zoning with required fees ($380 + $75 GIS fee), site plans, and floor plans. 2. Obtain a State of Montana Public Accommodation License (Tourist Home) from the Flathead City-County Health Department. 3. Send certified mail notifications to all neighbors within 150 feet and provide proof of notification to the Planning office.

Regulatory Updates — Columbia Falls

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedJune 2023

Flathead County STR Permit Program

County requires annual STR operating permit for all unincorporated county properties; fire safety compliance, county business license, and lodging tax registration required.

PassedMarch 2024

Columbia Falls City STR Licensing Ordinance

City enacted STR licensing requirement for properties within city limits; operators must obtain annual license and collect city lodging tax in addition to county requirements.

Under ReviewSeptember 2025

Flathead Valley STR Housing Impact Study

Multi-jurisdictional study examining STR impacts on workforce housing availability across Flathead County; Columbia Falls included in county-wide scope; recommendations expected in 2026.

Official Resources

Official Columbia Falls STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Flathead Valley STR AllianceLocal

Local organization representing STR operators in the Flathead Valley; monitors Flathead County and Columbia Falls proceedings.

Montana Lodging and Hospitality AssociationStatewide

Statewide hospitality trade group that tracks STR legislation and provides compliance resources for Montana operators.

Vacation Rental Management AssociationNational

National trade association offering education, advocacy, and resources for professional vacation rental managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Columbia Falls, MT?
Short-term rentals are restricted by zoning district (permitted by right in commercial zones, requiring permits in residential/agricultural zones). Key requirements include obtaining a Montana Public Accommodation License (Tourist Home), limiting occupancy to sewage capacity, providing a 24/7 local contact reachable within one hour, and notifying neighbors within 150 feet via certified mail.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Columbia Falls?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Columbia Falls. 1. Submit a Short-Term Rental Application to Flathead County Planning & Zoning with required fees ($380 + $75 GIS fee), site plans, and floor plans. 2. Obtain a State of Montana Public Accommodation License (Tourist Home) from the Flathead City-County Health Department. 3. Send certified mail notifications to all neighbors within 150 feet and provide proof of notification to the Planning office.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Columbia Falls?
1. Submit a Short-Term Rental Application to Flathead County Planning & Zoning with required fees ($380 + $75 GIS fee), site plans, and floor plans. 2. Obtain a State of Montana Public Accommodation License (Tourist Home) from the Flathead City-County Health Department. 3. Send certified mail notifications to all neighbors within 150 feet and provide proof of notification to the Planning office.
What permits do I need for an STR in Columbia Falls?
If you're within Columbia Falls city limits, you need a city STR license plus a Flathead County permit, county business license, and lodging tax registration. Properties in unincorporated Flathead County need only the county permit and registration. Requirements differ by jurisdiction.
How does Columbia Falls STR regulation compare to Whitefish and Kalispell?
All three cities in the Flathead Valley require STR permits and collect lodging taxes, but have separate permit programs. Columbia Falls added city-level licensing in 2024. Always verify which jurisdiction your property falls under — city or unincorporated county.
Does Montana have state STR preemption?
No. Montana has no statewide STR preemption law. Each county and municipality sets its own STR rules independently. Flathead County's permit program and Columbia Falls' city licensing are separate requirements that may both apply.
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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