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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Whitefish, MT

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are restricted to specific zoning districts (WB-3, WRR-1, WRR-2, WRB-1, WRB-2). Requirements include meeting off-street parking standards, posting an emergency contact notice visible from the front door, providing a local contact person, and listing the registration number on all marketing materials.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit and Business Registration Application via the City Form Center with a site plan and proof of State Public Accommodation License application. 2) Pay the required fees ($400 business registration fee or $100 review fee plus business license fees). 3) Pass an initial and subsequent annual safety inspection by the Fire Marshal.

Regulatory Updates — Whitefish

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedJune 2023

Whitefish STR Registration Program Active

Whitefish requires all short-term rental operators to register with the city, designate a 24/7 local contact, pass a safety inspection, and comply with occupancy and noise standards. Annual renewal is required. The city monitors listing platforms to identify unregistered operators.

Under ReviewOctober 2024

Workforce Housing Study Recommends STR Caps

A Whitefish workforce housing study found that vacation rental conversions have removed a significant percentage of the rental housing supply, contributing to a crisis in which resort, hospitality, and service workers cannot afford to live in the community. The study recommends considering license caps or primary-residence requirements.

ProposedAugust 2025

Flathead County Coordination on Unincorporated Areas

Flathead County (governing unincorporated areas around Whitefish including the Columbia Falls corridor and Flathead Lake communities) is coordinating with the city on STR policy to prevent displacement of restricted operators to surrounding areas.

Official Resources

Official Whitefish STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Whitefish Chamber of CommerceLocal

Tracks local business regulations including STR ordinance changes. Balances tourism industry interests with workforce housing concerns in city regulatory proceedings.

Montana Association of REALTORS®Statewide

Statewide association monitoring property regulations including STR-related zoning and licensing changes in Whitefish, Big Sky, and other Montana resort markets.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association providing regulatory monitoring and advocacy for vacation rental managers in Montana resort and national park gateway markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Whitefish, MT?
STRs are restricted to specific zoning districts (WB-3, WRR-1, WRR-2, WRB-1, WRB-2). Requirements include meeting off-street parking standards, posting an emergency contact notice visible from the front door, providing a local contact person, and listing the registration number on all marketing materials.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Whitefish?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Whitefish. 1) Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit and Business Registration Application via the City Form Center with a site plan and proof of State Public Accommodation License application. 2) Pay the required fees ($400 business registration fee or $100 review fee plus business license fees). 3) Pass an initial and subsequent annual safety inspection by the Fire Marshal.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Whitefish?
1) Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit and Business Registration Application via the City Form Center with a site plan and proof of State Public Accommodation License application. 2) Pay the required fees ($400 business registration fee or $100 review fee plus business license fees). 3) Pass an initial and subsequent annual safety inspection by the Fire Marshal.
Are new STR licenses currently available in Whitefish?
As of 2025, Whitefish has not yet implemented a cap on STR licenses. The city's registration program is open to new applicants. However, a workforce housing study recommending caps is under active city council review, and the regulatory situation could change. Investors should monitor Whitefish city council proceedings before purchasing property with the expectation of STR income.
What taxes apply to Whitefish short-term rental income?
Montana does not have a statewide sales tax, but short-term rentals are subject to Montana's lodging facility use tax (4%) and the Whitefish resort tax (3% on most goods and services including lodging). Flathead County may impose additional local taxes. Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit applicable Montana state lodging taxes on behalf of hosts. Operators booking directly must register with the Montana Department of Revenue.
How does Glacier National Park affect the Whitefish STR market?
Glacier National Park's vehicle reservation system (required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season) and limited park entry capacity make Whitefish an attractive base for visitors who want flexibility in their Glacier access timing. The park's popularity has driven consistent year-round demand for Whitefish area STRs — ski season (December–March), summer hiking season (June–September), and fall foliage (September–October) all generate strong occupancy. This multi-season demand profile makes Whitefish one of Montana's most attractive STR investment markets.
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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