Bolthole Index

Richland County, Montana

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

52Index Score / 100
#40 of 56 in Montana

Richland County, Montana requires a construction (building) permit for new construction, issued by the county Building Department outside Sidney, while electrical, plumbing and mechanical permits come from the state1,2. Zoning varies by location, and land-use planning inside Sidney goes through the City Office3. Septic permits come from the Richland County Health Department's Environmental Health Office, with a $200 application fee4.

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

Richland County says a construction permit is required for all new construction, and a building permit may also be needed to repair or replace existing fixtures.

Richland County says a construction permit is required for all new construction, and a building permit may also be needed to repair or replace existing fixtures1. Wallpapering, painting and similar finish work are exceptions, and certain agricultural structures may also qualify; ask the Building Inspector or Montana Building Division whether a specific farm project is exempt1. Richland County administers building-code enforcement outside Sidney only in the areas covered by its partial state certification, with Montana administering the remaining code areas2,8. Electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits are separate and are obtained from Montana, not from the county1.

Who issues building permits in Richland County, Montana?

The Richland County Building Department reviews plans, issues building permits and certificates of occupancy, and performs county building inspections.

The Richland County Building Department reviews plans, issues building permits and certificates of occupancy, and performs county building inspections9. Plans, a plot plan and construction details may be required, and approved plans cannot be changed without Building Department approval1. Richland County publishes building-permit and plan-review fees, but the available material does not provide usable dollar amounts; ask the department for the current total9. For covered buildings, the county issues a certificate of occupancy after requested inspections and correction of deficiencies, while remodels and small additions may receive a certificate of final inspection10.

Does Richland County, Montana have zoning?

Zoning approval in Richland County varies by location rather than following one confirmed countywide rule.

Zoning approval in Richland County varies by location rather than following one confirmed countywide rule3. The county Planning Department supports the unincorporated communities of Crane, Lambert and Savage and the Town of Fairview, while land-use planning inside Sidney belongs with the City Office3. Richland County publishes regulations and a map for the McGlynn Reservoir citizen-initiated zoning district, but those materials do not establish a rule for the entire county6. Ask Planning to identify the parcel's district and applicable setbacks, minimum dwelling size, lot size, lot coverage and height limits because those details could not be confirmed from the available district materials6.

Who issues septic permits in Richland County, Montana?

The Richland County Health Department Environmental Health Office administers on-site wastewater permitting, parcel review and inspections.

The Richland County Health Department Environmental Health Office administers on-site wastewater permitting, parcel review and inspections4. A septic permit is required before installation, and the application fee is $2004. A county sanitarian or Montana-registered professional engineer must perform the site evaluation4. Installation must be inspected before backfilling unless a county sanitarian authorizes otherwise4. A sanitary restriction can prevent both water or sewer facilities and issuance of a septic permit until further review resolves it4. Subdividing land into parcels smaller than 20 acres also triggers a Certificate of Subdivision Approval from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, issued with the county health department, and many such approvals cover only one single-family living unit11. Only 6.9% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so test septic feasibility early12.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Richland County, Montana?

Richland County's rules for long-term RV occupancy on private land could not be confirmed, so ask the Planning Department and Environmental Health Office about the parcel, intended stay and wastewater plan.

Richland County's rules for long-term RV occupancy on private land could not be confirmed, so ask the Planning Department and Environmental Health Office about the parcel, intended stay and wastewater plan4,6. A specific tiny-home occupancy rule also could not be confirmed; a tiny home proposed as a dwelling still needs review for applicable construction permits, location-specific zoning and sanitation1,4,6. State rules for camping on public-use or state-trust land do not answer whether an RV may be occupied on private property13,14.

What are the steps to build a home in Richland County, Montana?

Ask Richland County Planning which land-use rules and special districts apply; projects inside Sidney go to the city.

  1. Ask Richland County Planning which land-use rules and special districts apply; projects inside Sidney go to the city3.
  2. Have Environmental Health review septic feasibility, including any sanitary restriction, before committing to a house site4.
  3. Submit the plans, plot plan and construction information requested by the Building Department and obtain approval before starting work1.
  4. Arrange footing and foundation, framing, drywall and final inspections; the owner remains responsible for calling even when a contractor does it5.
  5. Correct deficiencies and obtain the applicable certificate of occupancy or final inspection10.
  6. Ask Floodplain Management about mapped hazards and confirm road access with Public Works or Montana transportation officials15,16,17.

What should you check before buying land in Richland County?

Confirm the parcel's zoning district, subdivision status and whether it lies inside Sidney before treating it as buildable; a parcel under 20 acres created by subdivision needs a Certificate of Subdivision Approval that may limit what can be built.

Confirm the parcel's zoning district, subdivision status and whether it lies inside Sidney before treating it as buildable; a parcel under 20 acres created by subdivision needs a Certificate of Subdivision Approval that may limit what can be built3,11. Order septic feasibility early because only 6.9% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, and sanitary restrictions can prohibit water or sewer facilities4,12. Ask Floodplain Management whether the site needs further review, and confirm legal access with Public Works for a county road or Montana transportation officials for a state highway15,16,17. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.7%, and the median annual property-tax bill is $1,93512.

Watch-outs

  • A construction permit is required for new construction even though Richland County's own building-code enforcement is partial outside Sidney1,2.
  • Do not assume one zoning answer applies everywhere: Richland County publishes a special McGlynn Reservoir district, and Sidney handles land-use planning inside city limits3,6.
  • A sanitary restriction can prevent water or sewer facilities and stop a septic permit until further review resolves it4.

Sources

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

  1. General Q&A - Richland County Montana
  2. Certified City, County and Town Programs
  3. Zoning Commission - Richland County Montana
  4. Septic Systems in Richland County
  5. Inspection Information - Richland County Montana
  6. Zoning Commission - Richland County Montana
  7. Montana Code Annotated, Title 37, Chapter 45, Construction Contractors (Montana statewide rule)
  8. Montana Building Codes Program
  9. Richland County Building Department (richland.org)
  10. Occupancy Permits
  11. Subdivision Review - Richland County Montana
  12. 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
  13. Public Use Rules and Regulations (Montana statewide rule)
  14. Camping (Montana statewide rule)
  15. Richland County Floodplain Management (richland.org)
  16. Richland County Public Works (richland.org)
  17. Approach Manual for Landowners and Developers (Montana statewide rule)

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 all 6 of its neighbors, Richland County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleRichland CountyDawson CountyRoosevelt CountyMcCone CountyWibaux CountySheridan CountyPrairie County
Building permitRequiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningYesYesNot publishedNoNot publishedNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County SanitarianCounty SanitarianCounty SanitarianMT DEQCounty SanitarianCounty Sanitarian

County locator

Richland County in Montana

52
County map
Richland County highlighted among the Montana counties · colored by Index score

How Richland County scores

52 / 100 · #40 of 56 in Montana · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion88100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency21100% ev.
Admin Boringness5690% ev.
Durability38100% ev.
Property Autonomy83100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% 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 →

$285kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$1,109Land / acre
14.7"Annual rain
17.5% of yrsSevere drought
8 / yr (+6.2)Mid-century 100°F days
22.1 daysMid-century dry spell
1.14" (+6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.3×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,469Home insurance / yr
3.1% / yrInsurance growth
1.54%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
22,917People within 2 hr
1,659Radius comparison (15 mi)
5.4People / sq mi
3.8%Federal land
70.4%Land at 15% slope or less
6.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
89,949 acWorkable land screen
2.1%Wooded land
56.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Richland 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: Sidney

Answers from the rulebook for Richland County

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

Richland County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New construction in Richland County, Montana, subject to the county's stated exceptions and separate state-issued trade permits.

    • A construction permit is needed for all new construction.
    • In many cases a permit is needed for repair or replacement of existing fixtures.
    • Plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permits are needed for additions or changes to an existing building system and for new construction, and those permits are provided by Montana rather than Richland County.
    • A permit is not needed for wallpapering, painting, or similar finish work.
    • Plumbing, mechanical, and electric work replacing or repairing fixtures do not normally require a permit.
    • Certain agricultural structures may not require a permit; the county directs applicants to contact the Building Inspector or Montana Building Division.
    “A construction permit is needed for all new construction.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New construction and specified repair, replacement, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work in Richland County.
      “A construction permit is needed for all new construction. In many cases a permit is needed for repair or replacement of existing fixtures.”
    • Required — New construction in Richland County areas served by the county building program.
      “A construction permit is needed for all new construction.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Richland County building-code administration.

    • The county page lists 2012 International Building, Existing Building, Energy Conservation, and Residential Codes as adopted by Richland County.
    • The page separately lists statewide code effective dates, including November 6, 2014 for several codes.
    “Building Codes adopted by Richland County”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • InspectionsRequired

    County-administered building construction inspections.

    • Inspections are required at footings and foundations before concrete is poured, framing before walls are covered, drywall before taping, and final inspection.
    • The property owner remains responsible for calling for inspections, although a contractor may make the call.
    “The person performing the following work is required to call for inspection for the following:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — County building inspections during construction.
      “The person performing the following work is required to call for inspection for the following:”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Buildings constructed or remodeled under Richland County building-code administration

    • A Certificate of Occupancy is issued after the builder requests a series of inspections and corrects deficiencies.
    • For remodels and small additions, a Certificate of Final Inspection may be issued instead.
    • Inspections and plan reviews are funded through the building permit purchase.
    “A Certificate of Occupancy is issued after the builder has requested a series of inspections and has corrected any deficiencies discovered during the construction process. The oversight helps to ensure that minimum life-safety and protection features have been properly addressed. This adds to the long term value of the property.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Richland County, including county citizen-initiated zoning districts, unincorporated communities, the Town of Fairview, and the City of Sidney.

    • The county planning department supports the unincorporated communities of Crane, Lambert, and Savage and the Town of Fairview.
    • Land-use planning within Sidney city limits is handled by the City Office.
    • The county Planning and Zoning Commission supports citizen-initiated zoning districts rather than establishing a uniform countywide rule.
    “If you need assistance with land use planning within the city limits of the City of Sidney please contact the City Office.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning aggregated across Richland County; the county administers planning support, while zoning may be district-specific or municipal.
      “The Planning Department provides support to Richland County Commission, which include the unincorporated communities in Richland County (Crane, Lambert, and Savage) and the Town of Fairview. If you need assistance with land use planning within the city limits of the City of Sidney please contact the City Office.”
    • Present (with conditions) — The McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District in Richland County.
      “McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District Regulations (Resolution No. 2018-16) and Zoning Map (Resolution No. 2018-06).”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Published Richland County citizen-initiated zoning district materials, specifically the McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District.

    • The county page links McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District Regulations under Resolution No. 2018-16.
    • The county page links a Zoning Map under Resolution No. 2018-06.
    • The source does not establish that the materials apply countywide.
    “McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District Regulations (Resolution No. 2018-16) and Zoning Map (Resolution No. 2018-06).”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — The McGlynn Reservoir citizen-initiated zoning district in Richland County
      “McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District Regulations (Resolution No. 2018-16) and Zoning Map (Resolution No. 2018-06).”
    • Partial — Published county zoning districts, specifically the McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District.
      “McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District Regulations (Resolution No. 2018-16) and Zoning Map (Resolution No. 2018-06).”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    On-site wastewater systems in Richland County.

    • The Richland County Health Department Environmental Health Office administers individual permitting, inspections, licensing, and problem reporting.
    • Montana DEQ standards and Montana administrative rules are also identified as governing materials.
    “The Environmental Health Office achieves this through education, individual permitting, inspections, licensing and a system for reporting and resolving problems.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — On-site septic permitting, review, inspection, and administration in Richland County
      “The Environmental Health Office achieves this through education, individual permitting, inspections, licensing”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of septic systems in Richland County.

    • The permit is required before installation.
    • The Health Department reviews all parcels applying for a septic permit.
    • The application fee is $200.
    • A sanitary restriction can prevent issuance; floodplain boundaries, surface water, groundwater depth, lot size, and parcel-specific characteristics may limit development.

    application fee: 200 USD

    “A septic permit is ALWAYS required BEFORE a septic system is installed.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation of septic systems in Richland County.
      “A septic permit is ALWAYS required BEFORE a septic system is installed.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Septic-system installation projects in Richland County, Montana.

    • A local septic permit is always required before installation.
    • Site evaluations must be performed by a Richland County Sanitarian or a Montana-registered Professional Engineer.
    • Inspection of septic installation projects is required unless otherwise authorized by a Richland County Sanitarian.
    • The installer must call the Health Department for an installation inspection before backfilling.
    • The septic permit application fee is $200.
    • Septic paperwork will not be processed on Fridays or after 4 PM.

    septic permit application fee: 200 USD

    “An Inspection of septic installation projects is required unless otherwise authorized by a Richland County Sanitarian.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Septic installation projects in Richland County.
      “An Inspection of septic installation projects is required unless otherwise authorized by a Richland County Sanitarian.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Water or sewer facilities on parcels subject to sanitary restrictions.

    • Some parcels cannot receive water or sewer facilities because of a sanitary restriction.
    • Removal requires further review; the county states it cannot issue a septic permit where an existing sanitary restriction applies.
    “Some parcels are created in such a way that prohibits the installation of sanitary facilities (water or sewer). This is called a "sanitary restriction".”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Certain agricultural structures under Richland County building-permit guidance.

    • The county states that a permit is not required for certain agriculture structures.
    • The page directs applicants to contact the Building Inspector or Montana Building Division to determine whether a particular project qualifies.
    “A permit is also not required for certain agriculture structures”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Certain agricultural structures in Richland County.
      “A permit is also not required for certain agriculture structures to find out whether or not your project requires a permit please contact the Building Inspector at (406) 433-2809 or the State of Montana Building Division at (406) 841-2056.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision review for unincorporated Richland County, including the county's listed unincorporated communities; land-use planning within Sidney city limits is directed to the City Office.

    • The Planner reviews under the Subdivision and Platting Act.
    • Environmental health review is separate but generally linked to planner review.
    • The Health Department reviews environmental-health aspects under the Sanitation in Subdivisions Act, Administrative Rule 17.36, Montana Circular DEQ 4, Montana Circular DEQ 20, and Richland County Wastewater Regulations.
    • For parcels smaller than 20 acres, Montana law requires a Certificate of Subdivision Approval (COSA).
    • COSA documents are issued by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality in conjunction with the local county health department.
    • Subdivision review timelines vary based on the property's characteristics; DEQ has specific review timelines.
    • The Health Department does not currently charge review fees, but Montana DEQ review fees may apply.
    • The Town of Fairview has separately listed subdivision regulations.

    parcel-size threshold for COSA: < 20 acres (Montana state law requires a COSA for subdivisions creating parcels smaller than 20 acres.)

    “The review through the Planner and the environmental review are separate but generally linked review processes.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Richland County building permit and plan-review fees.

    • The county publishes a Building Code Enforcement Fee Schedule link, but the numeric schedule was not available in the opened page text.
    • Septic permit fees are separately stated as $200.

    septic permit fee: 200 USD

    “Below are the current building permit and plan review fees for Richland County”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Richland County building-permit application process.

    • Applicants may request a permit at the Building Inspector office, download and complete the application in Microsoft Word, or print and complete the application by hand.
    • Applicants completing the form at home should print three copies and obtain the needed signatures and approvals from the respective parties.
    • Applicants are advised to call ahead to confirm office hours.
    • The application must be taken to the Building Inspector for approval; it is not itself the permit.

    application copies: 3 copies

    “This is an APPLICATION and will need to be taken to the building inspector to receive approval for a permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — County building-permit process in Richland County.
      “Once the plans are approved you're required to build the project to those plans. If any changes are made to the plans they must be made with the Building Department's approval.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    County has a Zoning Commission promoting planning under MCA Title 76 Ch. 2 with adopted zoning districts (e.g., McGlynn Reservoir), though not comprehensive countywide zoning.

    Richland County Zoning Commission ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Montana rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable

    An owner working on the owner's property, or an owner contracting for work performed by a registered construction contractor, under Montana's construction-contractor licensing chapter.

    • The exemption does not apply to an owner otherwise covered by the chapter who constructs a residence on the owner's property intending and for the purpose of promptly selling the improved property.
    • For an owner working on the owner's property, the resale exception does not apply if the owner has continuously occupied the property as the owner's primary residence for at least the last 12 months.
    • This is an exemption from the construction-contractor licensing chapter; it does not itself exempt a project from applicable building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or inspection requirements.

    primary-residence occupancy period for resale exception: >= 12 months (The statute states the owner must have continuously occupied the property as the owner's primary residence for at least the last 12 months.)

    “(13) to an owner working on the owner's property, whether occupied by the owner or not, but this exemption does not apply to an owner”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Montana construction-contractor licensing requirements, including work in Richland County.
      “to an owner working on the owner's property [...] unless the owner has continuously occupied the property as the owner's primary residence [...] 12 months”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    RV, camper-trailer, and other trailer overnight use for general recreation on legally accessible Montana state trust land administered by DNRC.

    • A Conservation License is required for dispersed camping on state trust land.
    • RV or trailer camping must be within 50 feet of a customary access point; motorized vehicles must be parked within 50 feet of a customary access point, and the camper or trailer may not be set up farther away by driving beyond that point.
    • On leased or licensed land, the stay limit is 2 days.
    • On unleased or unlicensed land, the stay limit is 16 days within a 30-day period.
    • Within a designated campground, the stay limit is 16 days within a 30-day period.
    • The local DNRC field office should be contacted to confirm whether land is leased.
    • Pets must be leashed or otherwise controlled.
    • Overnight horses must be restrained, may not remain in a stream riparian zone for more than one hour, and must use certified weed-seed-free feed.
    • Campfires are generally permitted within designated campgrounds and on unleased or unlicensed land but are not allowed on leased land.
    • Cutting firewood requires a separate permit from the local DNRC field office, and fireworks are not allowed on state land.
    • State Parks, Fishing Access Sites, and Wildlife Management Areas are managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks rather than under this DNRC camping page.

    RV/trailer distance from customary access point: <= 50 ft (Motorized vehicles must be parked within 50 feet; the page states the camper or trailer may not be driven farther to set it up.) · maximum stay on leased or licensed land: 2 days · maximum stay on unleased or unlicensed land: 16 days within a 30-day period · maximum stay within designated campground: 16 days within a 30-day period

    “TRAILER/RV etc. Camp within 50 ft of a customary access point. Motorized vehicles must be parked within 50 ft of a customary access point. You may not drive further to set up a camper or trailer. 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”
  • 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.”
  • Well permitLimited

    New groundwater developments in Montana using 35 gallons per minute or less and no more than 10 acre-feet per year.

    • All water uses starting after June 30, 1973, require a water right either through a water-use permit or an exception to the permitting process.
    • The development may qualify for the exception; qualification is not automatic.
    • Completed groundwater uses that meet the permit exception receive a Groundwater Certificate rather than a water permit.
    • A permitted water right is required for a combined appropriation from the same source by two or more wells or developed springs exceeding 10 acre-feet, regardless of flow rate.
    • All lots in a multi-phase subdivision must share a combined water-use limit of 10 acre-feet per year to qualify for a permit exception.
    • Beginning January 1, 2026, a water user intending to develop water use through a permit exception must file a Notice of Intent with DNRC before using water from an exempt well.
    • DNRC reviews a correct and complete Notice of Intent within 10 business days; if eligible, it authorizes the Notice of Intent and gives the user five years to complete the project, put the water to use, and file a Notice of Completion.
    • If the proposed use is not eligible, the Notice of Intent is denied and the user is directed to the water-right permit process.
    • The Notice of Intent filing fee is $400.
    • An authorized Notice of Intent expires after five years, with an opportunity for one five-year extension.

    maximum flow rate: <= 35 gpm · maximum annual volume: <= 10 acre-feet per year · Notice of Intent fee: 400 USD (Beginning January 1, 2026) · Notice of Intent review period: 10 business days (For a correct and complete Notice of Intent) · authorized Notice of Intent term: 5 years (One five-year extension opportunity is available)

    “Permit Exceptions, a.k.a. Exempt Wells: Small groundwater developments that use 35 gpm or less and do not exceed 10 acre-feet per year are known as “exempt wells” and may qualify for an exception to the water permit process.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Surface-water uses and groundwater uses exceeding 35 gallons per minute or 10 acre-feet per year in Montana.
      “Water Permits: A water permit is required for all surface water use and groundwater uses over 35 gallons per minute (gpm) or 10 acre-feet per year.”
  • 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”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    New or modified driveway approaches intersecting Montana state highways, and changes in use of property abutting a state highway or an existing approach.

    • A new or modified approach requires either an approach permit or a right-of-way agreement.
    • A change in property use or change in use of an existing approach requires a new approach permit.
    • The landowner is responsible for obtaining the new permit.
    • The application must be made to the appropriate MDT District Office.
    • A detailed site plan and Environmental Checklist Form are required.
    • The requirement concerns state highways; local roads may be administered by local governments.
    “ALL NEW OR MODIFIED APPROACHES REQUIRE EITHER AN APPROACH PERMIT OR A RIGHT-OF-WAY AGREEMENT.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    New development within a designated Special Flood Hazard Area in Montana.

    • The applicant must check with the local floodplain administrator to determine whether an SFHA has been designated.
    • Covered development includes placement of fill, roads, bridges, culverts, transmission lines, irrigation facilities, storage of equipment or materials, excavation, new construction or development, placement or replacement of manufactured homes, and new construction, additions, or substantial improvements to residential and commercial buildings.
    • Permit applications are obtained from the local floodplain administrator.
    • Application fees and timelines are established by the local government and vary widely throughout the state.
    “Anyone planning new development within a designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA).”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals operated in Montana.

    • A Property Manager license is required unless the operator qualifies for an exemption under MCA § 37-56-104 or MCA § 50-51.
    • Local land-use, lodging, tax, and public-accommodation requirements may also apply.

    application fee: 50 USD

    “Short Term Rentals: A Property Manager license is required for short term rentals unless an operator qualifies for an exemption”
  • 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, including the McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size, including the McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District.
  • Setbacks — Setbacks in the McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District and other Richland County zoning districts.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in the McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District.
  • Building height — Building height in the McGlynn Reservoir Zoning District.

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 Richland County, Montana

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

Richland County scores 52/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 1,659 people within 15 miles and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 14.7″ of rain a year and elevated current hazard exposure.

How much does land cost in Richland County, Montana?

Land in Richland County runs about $1,109 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Richland County?

Richland County gets about 14.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 17.5% of years.

How remote is Richland County?

A typical private-land location has about 1,659 people within 15 miles and 121,512 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Richland compares in Montana

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