Montana, McCone County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

McCone County Plumbing Permit Requirements

McCone County, Montana, issues building permits for properties located in unincorporated areas of the county. If your property is within an incorporated city, that city's building department will handle your permits. For plumbing work, a state building permit is required before plumbing permits can be issued and work can commence. This applies to new construction, alterations, additions, and repairs. The state building code, including the Uniform Plumbing Code, must be met for all plumbing work. A Montana licensed Master Plumber is required for all public/commercial buildings.

Homeowners performing their own plumbing installations for their personal use (not for speculation or rental) are exempt from obtaining a plumbing permit. Farms, ranches, mines, mills, smelters, railroads, and public utilities are also exempt from state plumbing permit requirements.

Plumbing inspections must be requested and conducted before any plumbing work is covered.

County Building & Safety Divisions and Jurisdiction

McCone County's permit authority for unincorporated areas lies with the McCone County Clerk & Recorder. The county utilizes the Montana state building codes. The Montana 2021 International Building Code series is currently in effect, with future adoption of the 2024 ICC codes planned for mid-2026. For specific questions regarding plumbing permits or if you are unsure whether your project requires a permit, you can contact the Montana Building Codes Program at (406) 841-2056 or [email protected].

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

For properties in unincorporated areas of McCone County, a state building permit is a prerequisite for obtaining plumbing permits. The application process involves submitting detailed construction plans, specifications, and site plans to the Montana Building Codes Program for review. This review process typically takes about three weeks. Once plan review comments are addressed and fees are paid, the building permit is issued. Plumbing permits can then be applied for and issued, provided all requirements are met. The McCone County Clerk & Recorder's office is located at 1004 C. Avenue, Circle, MT 59215, and can be reached at (406) 485-3505 or [email protected].

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Montana, including Mccone County.

Montana Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

State-Level Plumbing Codes in Montana

The State of Montana adopts and enforces the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), 2021 Edition. This code is incorporated by reference into the Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM), specifically under Title 24, Chapter 301, Subchapter 3. The state also adopts various appendices to the UPC to address specific requirements, such as water supply sizing, alternate plumbing systems, and sustainable practices.

Regulatory Agencies and Boards

Plumbing regulation in Montana is primarily managed by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) through the following entities:

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Mccone County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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