Home > Plumber > Montana > Yellowstone County

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

Yellowstone County, Montana Plumbing Permit Requirements

In Yellowstone County, Montana, plumbing permit requirements are primarily governed by the state's building codes, with specific local regulations that may apply, especially for unincorporated areas. Montana has adopted the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) as its foundational technical reference for plumbing, which includes state-specific amendments to address local conditions. For properties in unincorporated areas of Yellowstone County, plumbing permits are generally handled by the State of Montana Building Codes Division. However, it is always advisable to contact the Yellowstone County Public Works Department or City/County Planning to confirm specific requirements for your location.

Jurisdiction and Permitting

The City of Billings does not issue permits for construction outside of its city limits. Therefore, for properties in unincorporated Yellowstone County, permits are typically obtained from the State of Montana Building Codes Division. The state requires a plumbing permit for new water supply installations and for alterations that extend, reroute, or replace supply lines. Licensed installation by a Montana-licensed journeyman or master plumber is mandatory.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

For properties located outside of incorporated cities and towns within Yellowstone County, the State of Montana Building Codes Division is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for many building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical permits. This means that if you are undertaking plumbing work in an unincorporated area, you will likely need to obtain your permit from the state. It is important to note that even if a building project is exempt from a general building permit, it may still require separate electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits from the state.

State Plumbing Code and Amendments

Montana's plumbing standards are based on the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), as amended by the Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM). These amendments can address specific issues such as minimum pipe burial depths for freeze protection and approved materials for rural settings. The state requires that all plumbing work comply with these codes.

Exemptions

While a plumbing permit is generally required, there are some exemptions. Homeowners performing their own plumbing installations for their personal use (not for speculation or rental) may be exempt from obtaining a permit. Additionally, farms, ranches, mines, mills, smelters, railroads, and public utilities are exempt from state plumbing permit requirements.

Resources to Learn More

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

Help Us Improve This Guide

Did you find a dead link, or do you have the direct link to the Yellowstone County permit application portal? Help us keep this information accurate by submitting an update.