Bolthole Index

Granite County, Montana

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Granite County, Montana

56Index Score / 100
#33 of 56 in Montana

Unincorporated Granite County, Montana does not issue building permits for structures; the county has no building permit program1. County zoning approval is required only in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District, and septic permits for every property come from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction1. A single-family residence also does not need a state building permit2.

Do you need a building permit in Granite County, Montana?

Granite County does not have a local building-code or building-permit program, and structures in unincorporated Granite County do not need a county building permit.

Granite County does not have a local building-code or building-permit program, and structures in unincorporated Granite County do not need a county building permit1. A single-family residence is also exempt from the state building permit unless a local government requires one2. Montana's Building Codes Program governs covered work where a county or town does not enforce codes, and certain state-jurisdiction projects may need a permit and inspections6,7. Farm and ranch buildings are exempt from the state building permit, but zoning, septic, trade, floodplain or subdivision requirements may remain7. Montana's 2024 International Building Code and International Residential Code, as amended by state rule, became effective September 26, 2026 where the state program applies8. Electrical and plumbing permits are separate requirements1.

Who handles building, zoning and septic permits in Granite County?

Granite County has no county building department issuing structural permits, so the Granite County Planning Department is the first call for parcel-specific land-use questions.

Granite County has no county building department issuing structural permits, so the Granite County Planning Department is the first call for parcel-specific land-use questions1. Planning oversees land divisions, zoning and floodplain administration1. Tri-County Environmental Health serves Granite County and handles septic-system permitting and licensing4,9. Required state-permit projects go through Montana's Building Codes Program and require notice to the inspector when work is ready7. The Granite County Commissioners issue encroachment permits for new, relocated or reconstructed driveways onto county roads, while the Road Department maintains county roads1,10. A connection to a state highway follows Montana's separate approach-permit process11.

Does Granite County, Montana have zoning?

Granite County zoning applies in designated areas rather than uniformly across the county; official findings identify the Rock Creek project area as unzoned.

Granite County zoning applies in designated areas rather than uniformly across the county; official findings identify the Rock Creek project area as unzoned3. The county publishes a map, ordinance and legal description for the Georgetown Lake Zoning District, including mapped neighborhood conservation districts and a lakefront subdistrict1. The Georgetown district has a 20-foot lakeshore protection setback12. Property in the Georgetown zoning area needs a zoning compliance permit before construction or dirt work, and a residential-to-commercial change of use needs approval before business activity begins1. The application requires sketches showing setbacks and structure height plus a $100 fee1. Granite County Planning Board conditions for one Rock Creek subdivision require 50-foot setbacks from property lines and Rock Creek, while its 1.88-acre and 3.74-acre lots do not establish countywide standards3. Ask Granite County Planning for the rules attached to the parcel1.

How do septic permits work in Granite County?

All Granite County properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction.

All Granite County properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction1. Tri-County Environmental Health serves Granite County and provides septic-system permitting and licensing4,9. Certified installers may self-inspect, while other inspection details depend on the installer and parcel4. A Montana Certificate of Subdivision Approval does not replace the local drainfield permit13. Only 2% of Granite County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so establish septic feasibility before fixing the house location14. Tri-County does not require a local well permit in Granite County, but a well using Montana's permit exception is limited to 35 gallons per minute and 10 acre-feet per year and requires state notices4,5.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Granite County?

A countywide rule for long-term residence in one private RV or for tiny-home occupancy could not be confirmed, so ask Granite County Planning about the parcel, zoning district and intended use.

A countywide rule for long-term residence in one private RV or for tiny-home occupancy could not be confirmed, so ask Granite County Planning about the parcel, zoning district and intended use1. Establishing more than one RV site for rental purposes is treated as a subdivision and requires subdivision review1. Granite County regulates new lots, including RV or mobile-home parcels, condominium units and townhomes1. More than five rental units on a property require review under the Granite County Rent and Lease Regulations, and rental units are not allowed in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District1. A primary structure offered through VRBO or Airbnb must be discussed with the Tri-County Sanitarian before listing1. A tiny home still faces any applicable septic, zoning, floodplain and access approvals even though Granite County does not issue a structural building permit1.

What are the steps to build a home in Granite County?

Ask Granite County Planning whether zoning applies to the parcel and whether the site lies in a floodplain.

  1. Ask Granite County Planning whether zoning applies to the parcel and whether the site lies in a floodplain1,3.
  1. Establish water and septic locations, then obtain the Tri-County septic permit before construction1,4.
  1. If Georgetown Lake zoning applies, submit the compliance application, setback-and-height sketches and the $100 fee before construction or dirt work1.
  1. Confirm electrical and plumbing permits, and determine whether the project needs a state building permit and inspections1,6,7.
  1. Obtain a Granite County encroachment permit before creating, relocating or reconstructing a driveway onto a county road1.

What should you check before buying Granite County land?

Start with septic feasibility: only 2% of Granite County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.

Start with septic feasibility: only 2% of Granite County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field14. Check the parcel's mapped floodplain status because alterations such as grading, bank stabilization and construction require a floodplain permit in Granite County floodplains1. Confirm legal access and whether a county-road encroachment permit or a state-highway approach permit will be needed1,11. Recorded subdivision conditions can control setbacks even in an unzoned area, as the Rock Creek example shows3. Granite County is 69.5% wooded, 65.2% federally owned and only 22.7% gentle land, so parcel-level slope, wildfire exposure and adjoining ownership deserve close review14.

Watch-outs

  • Granite County's lack of a county structural permit does not remove state-code jurisdiction or applicable septic, Georgetown Lake zoning, floodplain, electrical, plumbing and driveway requirements1,6.
  • A general rule for one private RV, tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size and numeric setbacks could not be confirmed; ask Granite County Planning about the parcel and proposed use1.
  • Only 2% of Granite County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so septic feasibility can change the usable building area and budget14.

Sources

14 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 9, 2026

  1. Planning Department
  2. bsd.dli.mt.gov
  3. Planning Department
  4. Planning Department | Granite County, MT
  5. Groundwater permit exceptions
  6. Montana Building Codes Program
  7. Building Permits
  8. Current Codes
  9. Tri-County Environmental Health (granitecountymt.gov)
  10. Granite County Road Department (granitecountymt.gov)
  11. Approach Manual for Landowners and Developers (Montana statewide rule)
  12. Montana Western Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Addendum AA: Granite County
  13. Engineering Infrastructure & Subdivisions (Montana statewide rule)
  14. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Granite County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleGranite CountyDeer Lodge CountyRavalli CountyPowell CountySilver Bow CountyMissoula CountyJefferson County
Building permitLimitedRequiredNot requiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimited
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsTri-County SanitarianAnaconda-Deer Lodge County Env. Health Dept.RCEHTri-County Env. HealthButte-Silver Bow Env. Health Div.Missoula City-County Health Dept.County Env. Health

County locator

Granite County in Montana

56
County map
Granite County highlighted among the Montana counties · colored by Index score

How Granite County scores

56 / 100 · #33 of 56 in Montana · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion83100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency26100% ev.
Admin Boringness5590% ev.
Durability39100% ev.
Property Autonomy83100% ev.
Carry Cost77100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$474kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$2,808Land / acre
23.9"Annual rain
16.1% of yrsSevere drought
0.3 / yr (+0.3)Mid-century 100°F days
16.5 daysMid-century dry spell
1.24" (+9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.23×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,608Home insurance / yr
1.3% / yrInsurance growth
1.1%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
251,956People within 2 hr
2,384Radius comparison (15 mi)
2.1People / sq mi
65.2%Federal land
22.7%Land at 15% slope or less
2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
21,701 acWorkable land screen
69.5%Wooded land
31.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
39.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Granite County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet covered: Town of Drummond

Answers from the rulebook for Granite County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Granite County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Structures in Granite County under the county building-permit program.

    • Granite County states it has no building permit program and does not require county building permits for structures.
    • All properties must obtain a septic permit before construction.
    • Properties in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District must obtain a zoning permit before construction.
    • Commercial buildings, which may include multi-family housing structures, may require a Montana state building permit.
    “Granite County does not have a building permit program. Building permits are not required by the County for structures.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Structures in unincorporated Granite County.
      “Granite County does not have a building permit program. Building permits are not required by the County for structures. However, all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction. Additionally, properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District must obtain a zoning permit before construction. Commercial buildings, which may include multi-family housing structures, may require a building permit from the State of Montana.”
    • Not required — Structures in unincorporated Granite County under the county program.
      “Granite County does not have a building permit program. Building permits are not required by the County for structures. However, all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction. Additionally, properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District must obtain a zoning permit before construction. Commercial buildings, which may include multi-family housing structures, may require a building permit from the State of Montana. Contact the State of Montana at 406-841-2056.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Granite County: no county building permit is required, so there is no permit to be exempt from and you may build your own home. State licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work may still apply.

    • Commercial buildings, which may include multi-family housing structures, may require a building permit from the State of Montana.
    • All properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction.
    “Granite County does not have a building permit program. Building permits are not required by the County for structures. However, all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction. Additionally, properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District must obtain a zoning permit before construction. Commercial buildings, which may include multi-family housing structures, may require a building permit from the State of Montana. Contact the State of Montana at 406-841-2056.”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted

    Structures in Granite County subject to county building-code administration

    • Granite County zoning permits are separately required in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District before construction.
    • Commercial buildings, which may include multi-family housing structures, may require a building permit from the State of Montana.
    “Granite County does not have a building permit program. Building permits are not required by the County for structures.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning within Granite County varies by location because the county administers a designated Georgetown Lake Zoning District rather than describing one uniform rule for all county property.

    • Properties within the Georgetown Zoning Area must obtain a zoning compliance permit before any construction, including dirt work.
    • A change of use from residential to commercial must be permitted before commercial activities begin.
    • The zoning compliance permit submission must include the application and necessary sketch plans showing setback and height of structures.
    • The stated zoning compliance permit fee is $100.
    • The Georgetown Lake Zoning District covers Township 6 North, Range 13 West, Sections 28, 29, 31, 32 and 33; Township 6 North, Range 14 West, Section 36; and Township 5 North, Range 14 West, Sections 1, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24 and 26.

    zoning compliance permit fee: 100 USD

    “Properties located within the Georgetown Zoning Area must obtain a zoning compliance permit before any construction, including dirt work.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — County aggregate of local zoning conditions across Granite County, including the county-administered Georgetown Lake Zoning District and unzoned portions of the county; this does not mean Granite County administers every municipal ordinance.
      “The property currently lies in an unzoned portion of Granite County.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning in Granite County, aggregated across the county; the documented county zoning controls apply in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District rather than uniformly countywide.
      “Properties located within the Georgetown Zoning Area must obtain a zoning compliance permit before any construction, including dirt work.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Properties in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District, Granite County
      “georgetown lake zoning district properties located within the georgetown zoning area must obtain a zoning compliance permit before any construction, including dirt work. change of use from residential to commercial must also be permitted before commercial activities begin.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Properties within the Georgetown Lake Zoning District in Granite County, including the listed PLSS sections and mapped neighborhood conservation/subdistrict areas.

    • A zoning compliance permit is required before any construction, including dirt work, within the Georgetown Zoning Area.
    • A change of use from residential to commercial must be permitted before commercial activities begin.
    • The zoning compliance permit application requires sketch plans showing setback and height of structures.
    • The application fee is $100, payable to Granite County, Planning, P.O. Box 925, Philipsburg, MT 59858.
    • The Georgetown Lake Zoning District covers all properties in Township 6 North, Range 13 West, Sections 28, 29, 31, 32 and 33; Township 6 North, Range 14 West, Section 36; and Township 5 North, Range 14 West, Sections 1, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24 and 26.
    • The official county map identifies Denton's Point Neighborhood Conservation District, Edwards Lakefront Subdistrict, Edwards Neighborhood Conservation District, and Dude Ranch - Rising Sun Neighborhood Conservation District within the mapped Georgetown Lake zoning area.
    • The county page states that Georgetown Lake Zoning District regulations are available online.

    zoning compliance permit fee: 100 USD

    “Georgetown Lake Zoning District regulations are available online.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Published Georgetown Lake Zoning District materials in Granite County.
      “Georgetown Lake Zoning District covers all properties located in Township 6 North, Range 13 West, Sections 28, 29, 31, 32 and 33; Township 6 North, Range 14 West, Section 36; and Township 5 North, Range 14 West, Sections 1, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24 and 26. Georgetown Lake Zoning District regulations are available online.”
    • Published (with conditions) — The Georgetown Lake Zoning District in Granite County, including the mapped Denton's Point Neighborhood Conservation District, Edwards Lakefront Subdistrict, Edwards Neighborhood Conservation District, and Dude Ranch–Rising Sun Neighborhood Conservation District.
      “Georgetown Lake Zoning District regulations are available online.”
    • Published (with conditions) — The Georgetown Lake Zoning District in Granite County.
      “Georgetown Lake Zoning District covers all properties located in Township 6 North, Range 13 West, Sections 28, 29, 31, 32 and 33; Township 6 North, Range 14 West, Section 36; and Township 5 North, Range 14 West, Sections 1, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24 and 26. Georgetown Lake Zoning District regulations are available online.”
    • Published — The Georgetown Lake Zoning District in Granite County.
      “Georgetown Lake Zoning District covers all properties located in Township 6 North, Range 13 West, Sections 28, 29, 31, 32 and 33”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    The Rock Creek subdivision addressed by the Granite County Planning Board findings.

    • The cited lot sizes are specific to the proposed two-lot subdivision and do not establish a countywide minimum lot size.
    • Both lots require additional review from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality for well and septic.
    • The property lies in an unzoned portion of Granite County.

    minimum lot size in proposed subdivision: >= 1.88 acres · maximum lot size in proposed subdivision: 3.74 acres

    “Minimum lot size: 1.88 acres Maximum lot size: 3.74 acres”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    The Georgetown Lake Zoning District in Granite County.

    • The official county planning page requires a zoning compliance permit before any construction in the Georgetown Zoning Area.
    • The zoning compliance application must include sketch plans showing setback and height of structures.
    • The cited source describes a lakeshore protection setback; it does not establish that the same setback applies throughout the county.

    lakeshore protection setback: 20 ft · zoning compliance permit fee: 100 USD

    “There is a zoning district around Georgetown Lake, which was noted as an area of high residential growth in the County, has a 20’ lakeshore protection setback.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Structures in the Rock Creek subdivision addressed by the Granite County Planning Board findings and conditions of approval.
      “no structure may be constructed within 50’ of any property line. [...] no new structures may be constructed within 50’ of Rock Creek.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Establishment of more than one RV site for rental purposes in Granite County.

    • Establishment of more than one RV site for rental purposes is considered a subdivision under Montana state law.
    • Subdivision review under applicable Granite County subdivision regulations is therefore implicated.
    • The source separately states that more than 5 rental units, such as cabins, multi-family, and apartments, require review under the Granite County Rent and Lease Regulations.
    • Rental units are not allowed on properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District.

    RV sites requiring subdivision treatment: > 1 additional site threshold (Applies to rental purposes.) · rental units requiring Granite County Rent and Lease Regulations review: > 5 units (The source lists cabins, multi-family, and apartments as examples.)

    “Establishment of more than one RV site for rental purposes is considered a subdivision under the MT state law. Establishment of more than 5 rental units, such as cabins, multi-family, apartments, etc., on a property requires review under the Granite County Rent and Lease Regulations. Please note that rental units are not allowed on properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Establishment of more than one RV site for rental purposes in Granite County.
      “Establishment of more than one RV site for rental purposes is considered a subdivision under the MT state law.”
    • Limited — Rental or multiple-RV-site occupancy in Granite County.
      “Establishment of more than one RV site for rental purposes is considered a subdivision under the MT state law.”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Septic systems and onsite wastewater treatment in Granite County within the Tri-County Environmental Health jurisdiction

    • The Tri-County region serves Anaconda-Deer Lodge, Granite, and Powell counties.
    • The program provides permitting and licensing for septic systems, wells, and subdivision sanitation to meet state water quality standards.
    • The county planning page states that all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction.
    “We serve the Tri-county region of Anaconda-Deer Lodge, Granite, and Powell counties. [...] The Environmental Health Department provides education, permitting, and licensing to the Tri-County area for septic systems, wells, and sanitation in subdivisions to meet state water quality standards.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Local (with conditions) — On-site wastewater permitting for properties in Granite County.
      “However, all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    All properties in Granite County before construction.

    • The permit is obtained from the Tri-County Sanitarian.
    • Tri-County Environmental Health applies state water-quality standards.
    “However, all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — All properties in Granite County before construction.
      “However, all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Septic systems in Granite County within the Tri-County jurisdiction.

    • Certified installers may perform self-inspections.
    • The department provides permitting and inspection-related oversight.
    • Requirements may vary by installer certification and parcel circumstances.
    “Being a certified installer is not required in order to install septic systems in the Tri-County jurisdiction. Certified Installers have demonstrated knowledge and awareness of correct procedures, permitting and inspection of systems through examination. They are allowed to perform self-inspections of their installations.”
  • Well permitNot required (with conditions)

    Local Tri-County well permits for Granite County.

    • The Tri-County page states that a well permit is required in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County only.
    • State DNRC water-right requirements and notices may still apply.
    “Well Drilling - A well permit is required in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County only.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Well drilling in Granite County under the Tri-County Environmental Health page.
      “Well Drilling - A well permit is required in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County only.”
    • Not required — Well drilling in the Tri-County Environmental Health jurisdiction, including Granite County.
      “Well Drilling - A well permit is required in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County only.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land within Granite County's jurisdictional area.

    • If a proposed subdivision lies within specified distances of an incorporated city or town, the preliminary plat must be submitted for review and comment.
    • If partly within an incorporated city or town, both city or town and county approval are required.
    • The more restrictive requirements apply where regulations conflict.
    “These regulations govern the subdivision of land within the jurisdicitional area of the governing body of Granite County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Creation of new lots, including RV/mobile-home parcels, condominium units, and townhomes in Granite County.
      “Creation of new lots, including RV/mobile home parcels, condo units, and townhomes, is reviewed under the Granite County Subdivision Regulations. Exemptions for boundary relocation between adjoining properties and family transfers may be requested. For further information, contact the Planning Office.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    New, relocated, or reconstructed driveways connecting to Granite County roads.

    • The encroachment permit must be obtained before construction.
    • The permit is from the Granite County Commissioners.
    • The source concerns driveways onto county roads, not all private driveways.
    “Driveways onto County Roads, which are new, to be relocated, or to be reconstructed, must obtain an encroachment permit from Granite County Commissioners before construction. Please contact the Commissioners at 406-859-7023 for additional information.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New, relocated, or reconstructed driveways onto Granite County roads.
      “Driveways onto County Roads, which are new, to be relocated, or to be reconstructed, must obtain an encroachment permit from Granite County Commissioners before construction.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Alterations of property within Granite County floodplains.

    • The requirement includes adding or removing dirt, bank stabilization, and construction.
    • Floodplain status can be checked through the county-linked FEMA address tool.
    “All properties within the floodplain in Granite County must obtain a floodplain permit before any alterations of property within the floodplain”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Properties within the Granite County floodplain.
      “All properties within the floodplain in Granite County must obtain a floodplain permit before any alterations of property within the floodplain, including adding or removing dirt, bank stabilizations, construction, etc. Floodplain status can be checked by Physical Address Online. Contact the Planning Office for additional information.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term and rental use in Granite County, including properties in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District.

    • More than five rental units on a property require review under the Granite County Rent and Lease Regulations.
    • Rental units are not allowed on properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District.
    • A person intending to rent a primary structure under VRBO or Airbnb must contact the Tri-County Sanitarian before listing.

    rental units triggering review: > 5 units

    “Individuals who intend to rent the primary structure on a property under VRBO or Airbnb must contact the Tri-County Sanitarian's office at 406-563-4035 before listing.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Short-term rentals and rental units in Granite County.
      “Establishment of more than 5 rental units, such as cabins, multi-family, apartments, etc., on a property requires review under the Granite County Rent and Lease Regulations. Please note that rental units are not allowed on properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District. Individuals who intend to rent the primary structure on a property under VRBO or Airbnb must contact the Tri-County Sanitarian's office at 406-563-4035 before listing.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning compliance permits in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District.

    • The application must include necessary sketch plans showing setback and height of structures.
    • The fee is stated for the zoning compliance permit, not for all county or state permits.

    zoning compliance permit fee: 100 USD

    “To obtain a zoning compliance permit, submit the application, necessary sketch plans showing setback and height of structures, and a $100 fee”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning compliance permits in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District.
      “To obtain a zoning compliance permit, submit the application, necessary sketch plans showing setback and height of structures, and a $100 fee to Granite County, Planning, P.O. Box 925, Philipsburg, MT 59858.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Residential construction and related land-use approvals in Granite County.

    • The county does not require county building permits for structures.
    • All properties must obtain a septic permit before construction.
    • Georgetown Lake Zoning District properties must obtain a zoning permit before construction.
    • Floodplain properties must obtain a floodplain permit before alterations, including construction.
    • New, relocated, or reconstructed driveways onto county roads require an encroachment permit before construction.
    “Granite County does not have a building permit program. Building permits are not required by the County for structures. However, all properties must obtain a septic permit from the Tri-County Sanitarian before construction. Additionally, properties located in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District must obtain a zoning permit before construction. Commercial buildings, which may include multi-family housing structures, may require a building permit from the State of Montana. Contact the State of Montana at 406-841-2056.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Georgetown Lake Zoning District construction and change-of-use approvals.
      “Properties located within the Georgetown Zoning Area must obtain a zoning compliance permit before any construction, including dirt work. Change of use from residential to commercial must also be permitted before commercial activities begin. To obtain a zoning compliance permit, submit the application, necessary sketch plans showing setback and height of structures, and a $100 fee to Granite County, Planning, P.O. Box 925, Philipsburg, MT 59858.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    The county administers zoning through designated districts such as the Georgetown Lake Zoning District and requires zoning compliance permits before construction or change of use, though zoning is not county-wide.

    Granite County Planning Department ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Montana rules that apply here

  • InspectionsLimited

    Buildings and other projects requiring permits under Montana state building-code jurisdiction; certified local governments may perform inspections within their certified jurisdictional areas.

    • The Montana Building Codes Program performs inspections for projects requiring a permit under state jurisdiction.
    • The permit holder must notify the inspector when work is ready for inspection and provide access for required inspections.
    • Cities, counties, and towns may enforce local building codes and perform inspections only through certified local government programs; remaining areas fall under the state Building Codes Program.
    “The BC Program establishes and enforces statewide codes by issuing permits and performing inspections.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Projects in Granite County that require a Montana state building permit.
      “It is the responsibility of the permit hold to notify the inspector when work is ready for inspection and to provide access for required inspections.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Buildings constructed in accordance with the Montana state building code or a county, city, or town building code.

    • The certificate must certify that the building conforms to the applicable building regulations.
    • The statute addresses certificates for buildings constructed under the state or local building code; it does not establish a universal certificate requirement for every structure or every occupancy.
    “A certificate of occupancy for a building constructed in accordance with the provisions of the state building code or county, city, or town building code must certify that the building conforms to the requirements of the building regulations applicable to it.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Overnight camping by the public along surface waters open to recreational use under the Montana stream access law, on private land without landowner permission

    • Without landowner permission or contractual arrangement, overnight camping is excluded from the public's recreational use right unless necessary for enjoyment of the surface water and the campsite meets the dwelling-distance test
    • The statute's distance test: campsite not within sight of any occupied dwelling, or more than 500 yards from any occupied dwelling, whichever is less
    • For class II waters, subsection (3) excludes overnight camping without landowner permission
    • Right of use does not grant any easement to enter or cross private property to reach the water
    • No statewide private-land camping rule located

    distance from occupied dwelling: > 500 yards (or out of sight of any occupied dwelling, whichever is less)

    “(e) overnight camping unless it is necessary for the enjoyment of the surface water and the campsite is not within sight of any occupied dwelling or the campsite is more than 500 yards from any occupied dwelling, whichever is less;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny dwelling units in an unincorporated county jurisdictional area where a county board of commissioners establishes zoning regulations under 76-2-202.

    • State law leaves adoption and the content of county zoning to the board of county commissioners: it may establish zoning for part or all of an eligible jurisdictional area and may create zoning districts allowing tiny dwelling units.
    • For this county-zoning statute, a tiny dwelling unit is 350 to 750 square feet, on a permanent foundation, and used as a single-family dwelling for at least 45 days or longer.
    • Appendix Q, tiny houses, of the International Building Code as printed January 1, 2023, may govern all other requirements of a tiny dwelling unit within that size range.
    • The statute does not limit historic-district conditions, local design-review standards, existing covenants, or covenants under Title 70, chapter 17, part 2.
    • Regulations may differ by district.

    tiny dwelling unit floor area: 350 to 750 square feet (Definition applies under 76-2-202.) · single-family dwelling use duration: >= 45 days (Definition applies under 76-2-202.)

    “including the creation of zoning districts that allow tiny dwelling units.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Manufactured housing used as residential housing within Montana municipalities that exercise zoning powers under MCA Title 76, chapter 2, part 3.

    • Municipal zoning regulations may not treat manufactured housing or factory-built housing units differently from other residential units.
    • Placement remains subject to applicable municipal zoning districts, permits or variances where required, building-code requirements, and other applicable health and safety rules.
    • The statute defines manufactured housing as a single-family dwelling built offsite in a factory and compliant with applicable prevailing HUD standards; a manufactured home does not include a mobile home or housetrailer as defined in 15-1-101, MCA.
    • The source addresses municipal zoning and does not establish unrestricted occupancy on unzoned or county land statewide.
    “Zoning regulations adopted under this part may not treat manufactured housing or factory-built housing units differently from any other residential units.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units in jurisdictional areas where a Montana county has established zoning regulations under MCA Title 76, chapter 2, part 2.

    • The county zoning regulations must allow at least one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel containing a single-family dwelling.
    • The unit may be attached, detached, or internal.
    • The county may not require owner occupancy, a familial, marital, or employment relationship between occupants, or impact fees; private restrictive covenants remain possible but cannot be required as a permit, license, or use condition.
    • A county may charge up to $250 for a one-time ADU application-review fee, in addition to usual building fees.
    • Applicable building codes, fire codes, and public-health and safety regulations still apply.
    • The county may require expedited sanitation review for an ADU on a parcel with existing public water and wastewater capacity; the 15-day expedited-review provision terminates September 30, 2029.
    • The statute applies to a county that exercises zoning powers; it does not itself create county zoning where none exists.

    maximum one-time application-review fee: <= 250 USD (Usual building fees may also be required.) · expedited sanitation review: 15 days (Parcel must have existing public water and wastewater service with capacity.)

    “In jurisdictional areas where the board of county commissioners has established zoning regulations under this part, the regulations must allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel that contains a single-family dwelling.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units in Montana municipalities that exercise zoning powers under MCA Title 76, chapter 2, part 3.
      “A municipality shall adopt regulations under this chapter that allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel that contains a single-family dwelling.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Subsurface wastewater treatment systems in Montana, including on-site systems.

    • The stated minimum standards apply to all subsurface wastewater treatment systems in Montana.
    • A reviewing authority other than DEQ may impose requirements more stringent than Circular DEQ-4.
    • Circular DEQ-4 design details are required for multiple-user and public systems and individual and shared systems with wastewater exceeding residential strength; individual and shared residential-strength systems are governed by ARM 17.36.320(3).
    • All wastewater must discharge into a septic tank unless Circular DEQ-4 specifically provides otherwise.
    • For new systems under ARM 17.36.321, pit privies, seepage pits, and holding tanks may not be used except as replacement systems subject to the stated limitations; cesspools are prohibited as new or replacement systems; sealed pit privies are restricted to stated governmental or DPHHS-authorized facilities.
    • Applicable local reviewing authorities may administer review or adopt more stringent standards.
    “These minimum standards apply to all subsurface wastewater treatment systems in Montana. In some cases, a reviewing authority (other than the Department of Environmental Quality) may have requirements that are more stringent than those set out in this Circular. Design details, as described in this Circular, are required for multiple-user and public wastewater treatment systems and individual and shared systems with wastewater that exceeds residential strength.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    County zoning resolutions and rules adopted under MCA Title 76, ch. 2, part 2 as applied to agricultural resources

    • Applies to county zoning under part 2 (not expressly to municipal zoning).
    • Exceptions: 76-2-206, 82-4-431, 82-4-432 and subsection (2) of 76-2-209.
    • Protects use and development of agricultural resources by their owner; it is not a blanket exemption from all building or zoning requirements.
    “a resolution or rule adopted pursuant to the provisions of this part, except 76-2-206, may not prevent the complete use, development, or recovery of any mineral, forest, or agricultural resources by the owner of any mineral, forest, or agricultural resource.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Farm and ranch buildings in Granite County under Montana's state building-permit jurisdiction.
      “In the State's jurisdiction, state law exempts the following from the need to obtain state building permits: 1. farm and ranch buildings”
    • Available (with conditions) — State building permits for farm and ranch buildings within the State's jurisdiction.
      “In the State's jurisdiction, state law exempts the following from the need to obtain state building permits: 1. farm and ranch buildings”
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionConditional

    Private garages and private storage structures used only for the owner's own use, and farm or ranch buildings, within a county, city, or town: exempt from the state building code unless the local governing body makes it applicable

    • The exemption is from the state building code; it has no square-foot threshold in the statute (applies to such structures 'of any size').
    • Private garage or private storage structure must be used only for the owner's own use.
    • A county, city, or town legislative body may by ordinance or resolution make the state building code applicable to these structures, and then may enforce it.
    • Subsection (5) still applies state energy-conservation provisions to residential buildings, except farm and ranch buildings and private garages or storage structures attached to a residential building and used only for the owner's own use.
    • Residential buildings with fewer than five dwelling units are also excluded from state-enforced building code unless local body adopts it.
    • Current-codes page lists the 2024 IRC effective September 26, 2026; the statewide adopted-rule text I opened was a draft that does not itself state a 200 sq ft permit exemption, so no numeric IRC R105.2 threshold is claimed.
    • Local jurisdictions (certified city/county/town building programs) may apply the code and their own exemptions; not researched here.

    private garage or private storage structure size limit: any size (used only for the owner's own use)

    “the state building code, as defined in 50-60-203 (3), does not apply to: (a) residential buildings containing less than five dwelling units or their attached-to structures, any farm or ranch building of any size, and any private garage or private storage structure of any size used only for the owner's own use, located within a county, city, or town, unless the local legislative body by ordinance or resolution makes the state building code applicable to these structures”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping in Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks public-use sites.

    • Camping is prohibited except in areas specifically designated or marked for camping.
    • A camping unit, vehicle, equipment, or personal items may not be left overnight without a person present.
    • Camping longer than 7 nights at one or more campsites in a public use area during any consecutive 30-day period is prohibited unless otherwise posted by the department.
    • Designated occupancy limits must not be exceeded.
    • Special-use-permit terms must be followed unless otherwise posted.
    • Campsites must be vacated by 1 p.m. on the day of departure; camping facilities must be vacated by 12 p.m. on the day of departure.

    maximum camping duration: <= 7 nights per consecutive 30-day period (unless otherwise posted by the department) · campsite departure time: 1 p.m. · camping-facility departure time: 12 p.m.

    “Unless otherwise posted by the department, within a public use site it is prohibited to: [...] camp at one or more campsites in a public use area for a period of longer than 7 nights during any consecutive 30-day period, beginning with the first night occupied unless otherwise posted by the department;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Dispersed and designated-campground temporary camping on legally accessible Montana state trust land administered by DNRC.
      “Dispersed camping is allowed on state trust land with the appropriate permit and with certain restrictions. Dispersed camping on state trust land is allowed with a Conservation License. Camping that is incidental to hunting or fishing is permitted through your conservation license, and no additional permitting is required. Group camping requires a special recreational use license. On leased or licensed land: 2 days On unleased/unlicensed land: 16 days within a 30-day period Within designated campground: 16 days within a 30-day period”
    • Limited — Dispersed and campground camping on legally accessible state trust land managed by DNRC
      “in a designated campground, the maximum stay is 16 days in a 30-day period.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Montana county boards of commissioners' authority to adopt zoning regulations, including in unincorporated portions of established jurisdictional areas.

    • The board of county commissioners must have adopted a growth policy pursuant to Title 76, chapter 1.
    • Zoning may be adopted for all or parts of the jurisdictional area in accordance with Title 76, chapter 2, part 2.
    • Within unincorporated portions of an established jurisdictional area, the board may establish zoning regulations by resolution or divide the county into zoning districts.
    • Zoning regulations may regulate the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, location, or use of buildings or structures and the use of land.
    • An action challenging creation of a zoning district or adoption of zoning regulations must be commenced within 6 months after the board's order.
    • Regulations in one district may differ from those in other districts.
    • The statute also states that zoning regulations may not treat manufactured housing or factory-built housing units differently from other residential units, subject to the statutory presumption concerning placement.

    challenge period: 6 months (after the date of the board order creating the district or adopting the regulations)

    “For the purpose of promoting the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare, a board of county commissioners that has adopted a growth policy pursuant to chapter 1 is authorized to adopt zoning regulations for all or parts of the jurisdictional area in accordance with the provisions of this part.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Montana county boards of commissioners adopting zoning regulations for all or parts of their jurisdictional areas, including unincorporated portions where the statutory prerequisites are met.
      “a board of county commissioners that has adopted a growth policy pursuant to chapter 1 is authorized to adopt zoning regulations”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Montana counties may adopt and enforce building codes and require construction permits for residential construction in unincorporated county areas, subject to the statutory certification, geographic, code-content, and permit requirements.

    • A county may adopt a building code by ordinance or resolution, or authorize adoption by administrative action.
    • A county may adopt its building code on a countywide basis unless a city or town within the county has adopted a building code; the county may not enforce its county building code within that city or town.
    • The county code-enforcement program must be certified by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.
    • The current adopted code, current fee list, and current enforcement plan must be filed with and approved by the Department.
    • Inspectors must satisfy the stated state-licensing or approved national-certification requirements.
    • Except for voluntary incentive-based energy-conservation standards, the county may not adopt or enforce a building code more stringent than the code adopted by the Department or required by state law.
    • The county may prohibit construction from commencing until the required permit is issued after compliance is shown.
    • The general construction-permit requirement applies to buildings subject to Title 50, chapter 60, parts 1 through 4.
    • State agency-owned buildings remain under state Department jurisdiction for plan review, permitting, and inspections.
    “The local legislative body of a county, city, or town may adopt a building code to apply to the county, city, or town by an ordinance or resolution, as appropriate: (a) adopting a building code; or (b) authorizing the adoption of a building code by administrative action.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Montana counties' authority to adopt and enforce building codes and require building-code administration for construction in county areas, including unincorporated areas.
      “The local legislative body of a county, city, or town may adopt a building code to apply to the county, city, or town by an ordinance or resolution, as appropriate: (a) adopting a building code; or (b) authorizing the adoption of a building code by administrative action.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in applicable Granite County zoning districts.
  • Building height — Building height in the Georgetown Lake Zoning District and elsewhere in Granite County.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and sewer connection requirements in Granite County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Granite County, Montana

Is Granite County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Granite County scores 56/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 2,384 people within 15 miles and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: thin water margin (23.9″/yr rainfall) and elevated current hazard exposure.

How much does land cost in Granite County, Montana?

Land in Granite County runs about $2,808 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Granite County?

Granite County gets about 23.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 16.1% of years.

How remote is Granite County?

A typical private-land location has about 2,384 people within 15 miles and 506,814 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Granite compares in Montana

Compare side-by-side →See all 56 Montana counties ranked →