MontanaSB 17569th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)SenateWALLET

Allowing for streamlined public hearing notice process when revising zoning

Sponsored By: Forrest Mandeville (Republican)

Became Law

CountiesLocal GovernmentPlanning and DevelopmentProperty

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Clear notice before zoning rule changes

When changing an existing zoning rule, the county must give a hearing notice that summarizes the changes, lists the time and place, and says the original rule and proposed changes are on file at the county clerk and recorder. The notice must be posted at least 15 days before the hearing and published once a week for two weeks in a county newspaper. After the hearing, the board may adopt the amendment.

Longer notice and comment on zoning districts

The law updates how counties create or change zoning districts and adopt rules. Hearing notices must list the proposed boundaries, describe the rules, give the hearing time and place, and say the rules are on file at the county clerk and recorder. The county must post the notice at least 45 days before the hearing in at least five public places in the proposed district and publish it once a week for two weeks in a county newspaper. At the hearing, the public can speak. Afterward, the board reviews the plan and may revise it. If the board passes a resolution of intention, it must publish notice once a week for two weeks and take written comments for 30 days after first publication from property owners whose names are on the last‑completed county assessment roll. Within 30 days after that comment period ends, the board may adopt the resolution.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Forrest Mandeville
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Greg Overstreet
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 290 • No: 5

Senate vote • 4/1/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 97 • No: 2

Senate vote • 3/31/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 97 • No: 2

Senate vote • 2/7/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 49 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/6/2025