Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Flathead County, MT

Airbnb listings are allowed in Flathead County, MT, but with restrictions. STRs are restricted by zone; most require an administrative conditional use permit, while others are permitted subject to performance standards. Requirements include a valid State Public Accommodations License, neighbor notification to all owners within 150 feet, and compliance with Section 5.11 performance standards. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

STRs are restricted by zone; most require an administrative conditional use permit, while others are permitted subject to performance standards. Requirements include a valid State Public Accommodations License, neighbor notification to all owners within 150 feet, and compliance with Section 5.11 performance standards.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Flathead County. 1. Determine zoning and apply for an Administrative Conditional Use Permit (if required) or submit a Minor Land Use Review (CALURS). 2. Obtain a State Public Accommodations License from the Health Department. 3. Send certified mail notifications to neighbors within 150 feet and submit proof of notification and license to the Planning Department.

1. Determine zoning and apply for an Administrative Conditional Use Permit (if required) or submit a Minor Land Use Review (CALURS). 2. Obtain a State Public Accommodations License from the Health Department. 3. Send certified mail notifications to neighbors within 150 feet and submit proof of notification and license to the Planning Department.

Vrbo is permitted in Flathead County, MT under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Flathead County 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.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Flathead County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.