Montana Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Regulations (2026 Guide)

Montana's Glacier National Park, Yellowstone gateway communities, and Big Sky ski resort create one of the fastest-growing STR markets in the country. Whether you already own a vacation rental in Montana or are evaluating your first investment, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential. STR laws in Montana vary significantly by city and county — and getting compliance wrong can mean fines, forced delistings, or lost income.

This guide covers Montana's approach to short-term rental regulation at the state level, then breaks down the rules in key markets investors and hosts need to know. Regulations as of 2026 — always verify current rules directly with your local municipality before listing.

If you'd like help navigating STR compliance in Montana, Awning's property management team operates in Whitefish, Bozeman, and Big Sky and helps hosts stay compliant while maximizing revenue.

How Montana Defines a Short-Term Rental

For regulatory and tax purposes, a short-term rental in Montana is generally defined as a residential property rented for 30 consecutive days or fewer. Any rental longer than this threshold is typically treated as a long-term rental and subject to different rules.

Does Montana Require a Statewide STR License?

Montana does not have a statewide STR licensing requirement. Local regulations vary significantly, especially near national parks where housing pressure has prompted stricter oversight.

Montana Short-Term Rental Taxes

Montana levies a 7% lodging facility use tax on STRs of fewer than 30 nights. Airbnb collects and remits this tax automatically. Hosts using other platforms or taking direct bookings must register with the Montana Department of Revenue.

Regardless of which booking platform you use, it is your responsibility as a host to ensure all applicable taxes are collected and remitted correctly. Failure to comply can result in penalties, back taxes, and potential loss of your ability to operate.

STR Regulations by City in Montana

Below are the key STR markets in Montana and their current regulatory requirements. City regulations change frequently — check with your local planning or licensing department for the most current rules before investing.

Whitefish

Whitefish, near Glacier National Park, requires STR operators to obtain a Short-Term Rental License from the city. Non-owner-occupied STRs require a Conditional Use Permit, and the city has imposed caps on total STR numbers to protect long-term housing supply.

Bozeman

Bozeman requires STR registration and compliance with local zoning. The city distinguishes between owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied STRs, with stricter requirements for investment properties. Rapid real estate growth has intensified regulatory debate.

Big Sky

Big Sky (Gallatin and Madison counties) has lighter STR regulation at the county level, making it highly investor-friendly. Basic tax registration is required, but there are no caps or permit limits for most property types.

Key Questions to Ask Before Listing an STR in Montana

• Does your city or county require an STR permit or license?
• Are there caps on the number of STR permits in your neighborhood or zone?
• Is your property owner-occupied or non-owner-occupied — and does that distinction affect your eligibility?
• What occupancy, noise, and parking rules apply to your specific property?
• Which taxes are you responsible for collecting and remitting vs. what the platform handles?
• Does your HOA or condo association allow short-term rentals?

The Bottom Line

Montana's STR regulatory environment ranges from investor-friendly rural counties to tightly regulated resort towns and urban cores. Understanding the specific rules in your target market — not just at the state level — is what determines whether your rental operates smoothly or faces costly disruptions.

Staying on top of changing regulations is one of the most valuable things a professional property manager brings to your operation. Awning manages short-term rentals in Whitefish, Bozeman, and Big Sky and monitors local regulatory changes so you don't have to. Reach out to learn how we can help you operate compliantly and profitably in Montana.