Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Missoula, MT

Airbnb listings are allowed in Missoula, MT, but with restrictions. STRs (Tourist Homes) are permitted in zoned and unzoned areas but restricted by zoning district caps (e.g., one unit per parcel in certain R zones) and a limit of two registered units per individual in residential districts. Occupancy is limited to one guest per 150 square feet, and a local responsible party must be available 24/7 to address issues. 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 (Tourist Homes) are permitted in zoned and unzoned areas but restricted by zoning district caps (e.g., one unit per parcel in certain R zones) and a limit of two registered units per individual in residential districts. Occupancy is limited to one guest per 150 square feet, and a local responsible party must be available 24/7 to address issues.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Missoula. 1. Create an account on the City Permit & Licensing Portal and submit an online application including a safety self-inspection checklist and neighbor notification (if in residential zoning). 2. Obtain a Public Accommodations License from the Missoula City-County Health Department and register for lodging tax with the MT Dept of Revenue. 3. Pay the application fee (e.g., $636 for 2025) online; registrations must be renewed annually by January 31.

1. Create an account on the City Permit & Licensing Portal and submit an online application including a safety self-inspection checklist and neighbor notification (if in residential zoning). 2. Obtain a Public Accommodations License from the Missoula City-County Health Department and register for lodging tax with the MT Dept of Revenue. 3. Pay the application fee (e.g., $636 for 2025) online; registrations must be renewed annually by January 31.

Vrbo is permitted in Missoula, 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 Missoula 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 Missoula. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.