MontanaHB 94069th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)House

Prohibit overnight camping on state highway right-of-way

Sponsored By: Anthony Nicastro (Republican)

Became Law

Motor VehiclesTransportationRule MakingAppropriationsCivil Procedure

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

No overnight camping on state highways

The law bans overnight camping and storing personal property on a state highway right-of-way. Exceptions apply for emergencies set by law enforcement or the department, work crews on duty, and posted rest areas or pullouts for up to 24 hours. If you violate the ban, officers can give you a written notice to leave and remove all items within 72 hours. If you do not comply, you can be fined up to $50, and remaining property may be disposed of. Unattended property not under a 72-hour notice can be posted for removal; after at least 120 hours, it may be disposed of. The Department of Transportation and law enforcement enforce these rules, and the department may adopt rules to recover fines, cleanup costs, and legal costs from violators.

Small funds for highway camping enforcement

The law gives $15,000 from the highway restricted account to the Montana Department of Transportation. The money is for the biennium starting July 1, 2025. It pays to carry out sections 1 through 4 of this law. The funds come from the highway restricted account.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Anthony Nicastro
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Russ Tempel
Republican • Senate
Steve Fitzpatrick
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 250 • No: 43

House vote • 4/23/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 37 • No: 13

House vote • 4/22/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 38 • No: 12

House vote • 4/8/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 88 • No: 9

House vote • 4/7/2025