Missoula Zoning & Land Use Guide
Official references and local checks
Use the official references below to identify the rules that apply to your address, then confirm parcel-specific requirements with the local authority before filing an application.
Official references
- Population:
- 73,489
- County:
- Missoula County
- State building code:
- Montana Building Codes Bureau administers code (based on 2021 IBC)(statewide default)
- State ADU law:
- Yes — Montana SB 528 (2023), codified at MCA 76-2-345, requires municipalities to adopt regulations allowing at least one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot containing a single-family dwelling. SB 382 (2023, the Montana Land Use Planning Act) separately reorganized how larger Montana cities plan for housing.
- FEMA flood map:
- Search flood zones
- Planning department:
- City of Missoula Development Services
- Municipal code:
- View code online
- Zoning map:
- View local zoning map
Before you apply
- Call the City of Missoula Development Services: (406) 552-6630
- Search the municipal code for the chapter that covers your zoning district and proposed use.
- Use the local zoning map to look up your parcel's zoning designation before applying for a permit.
- Check FEMA flood zone for your parcel — flood-zone status changes setbacks, foundation requirements, and insurance.
- Check your HOA CC&Rs and recorded deed restrictions — they are common in Missoula and frequently restrict ADUs, fences, and exterior changes beyond what zoning allows.
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Missoula
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA flood mapping: check parcel-specific flood-zone status
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — Montana
- Building Code: Montana Building Code (based on 2021 IBC)
- State ADU Override: Yes (SB 528 and HB 211)
County — Missoula County
City / Municipal
The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Statewide Context (Montana)
Local data for Missoula is limited. The following state-level facts apply across Montana and are inherited by this page until city-specific details are verified.
- State Building Code
- Montana Building Codes Bureau administers code (based on 2021 IBC)
- State ADU Preemption
- Yes — state law overrides local rules
- Coastal Zone
- No
- Wildfire Zones
- Yes
ADU Rules in Missoula
- Max Size
- 1,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 25 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Parking
- Verify with local jurisdiction
- Owner Occupancy
- Not required (per state law)
- Permit Timeline
- 4-6 weeks
Permit Costs & Timelines
Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines
Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.
Check current Missoula permit information →Official Sources
City-specific