Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Lewis and Clark County, MT

Lewis & Clark County regulates lodging via zoning (Helena Valley Zoning Regulations define Hotel, Bed and Breakfast and home-occupation standards) and the County’s Licensed Establishment Inspection Program inspects and reviews hotels/motels/bed & breakfasts; properties in incorporated cities (e.g., City of Helena) are subject to city STR ordinances requiring local business licensing and zoning compliance. County zoning/CUP rules and public-accommodations licensing thus restrict STRs (must comply with zone-specific uses and licensed-accommodation rules).

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Lewis and Clark County. 1) Confirm zoning/use allowance for the specific parcel under the Helena Valley Zoning Regulations (check whether the use is a permitted use, conditional use, or requires a CUP). 2) If operating as a lodging/B&B/short-term accommodation, submit the County Public Accommodation Plan Review application or Bed and Breakfast Plan Review application, pay the published Public Accommodation fees, and schedule/complete the Licensed Establishment Inspection. 3) For properties inside the City of Helena, obtain the City business license classification for short-term rentals per Helena Ordinance and comply with City zoning/permit requirements.

1) Confirm zoning/use allowance for the specific parcel under the Helena Valley Zoning Regulations (check whether the use is a permitted use, conditional use, or requires a CUP). 2) If operating as a lodging/B&B/short-term accommodation, submit the County Public Accommodation Plan Review application or Bed and Breakfast Plan Review application, pay the published Public Accommodation fees, and schedule/complete the Licensed Establishment Inspection. 3) For properties inside the City of Helena, obtain the City business license classification for short-term rentals per Helena Ordinance and comply with City zoning/permit requirements.