How much does a building permit cost in Boulder, MT?

Fees are calculated as: Follows Montana state guidelines (1-2% of building valuation) plus 35% plan review fee.

How do I apply for a building permit in Boulder, MT?

1. Complete zoning permit application with required information 2. Prepare site plan showing lot dimensions, existing and proposed buildings, and property uses 3. Submit application to City of Boulder with all required documentation 4. City staff reviews for zoning compliance and planning requirements 5. Approval issued upon verification of compliance 6. Building permit issued after planning approval

How long does it take to get a building permit in Boulder, MT?

Typical processing time is Estimated 2-3 weeks for plan review.

What work is exempt from building permits in Boulder, MT?

The following work is generally exempt: Residential buildings: Less than five dwelling units (state exemption, not serving transient guests); Private garages: For owner's use only, not part of commercial enterprise; Storage buildings: Non-commercial use, owner's own use; Minor additions: Covered entries, porches, patios, and lean-to structures on residential buildings (non-habitable storage only); Decks: Unattached decks not serving as primary entrance. Note: Local city requirements may be stricter than state exemptions; verify with Boulder city planning before proceeding.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Boulder, MT?

Inspections can be scheduled via: .

City Building Permits

Boulder, MT - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Boulder, Montana. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Montana Jefferson County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

Department: City of Boulder
Address: 304 N. Main St., PO Box 68, Boulder, MT 59632
Phone: (406) 225-3381
Website: https://jeffersoncounty-mt.gov/

Application Process

Complete zoning permit application with required information
Prepare site plan showing lot dimensions, existing and proposed buildings, and property uses
Submit application to City of Boulder with all required documentation
City staff reviews for zoning compliance and planning requirements
Approval issued upon verification of compliance
Building permit issued after planning approval

Typical processing time: Estimated 2-3 weeks for plan review

Source: City of Boulder

General Requirements

Required before constructing, erecting, expanding, altering or modifying any building or structure within city limits.

Required Documents

Completed building permit application
Site plan with property boundaries, existing structures, and proposed improvements
Building plans drawn to scale showing dimensions and specifications
Number of dwelling units or rental units proposed
Proof of property ownership
Zoning compliance certification

Building code: Montana Building Code 2021 (International Building Code 2021), effective June 11, 2022

Fees

Permit fee formula: Follows Montana state guidelines (1-2% of building valuation) plus 35% plan review fee
Payment note: Contact City of Boulder directly for current fees and payment methods

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Boulder to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

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Inspection hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch)

Typical inspection sequence: Foundation, framing/wall sheathing, final inspections before occupancy required

Additional Resources

Building code: Montana Building Code 2021 (International Building Code 2021), effective June 11, 2022
City of Boulder Contact
Montana Building Codes Program
Jefferson County Planning
License lookup guide: Montana Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Montana Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Montana hub: Montana Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the City of Boulder before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boulder Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Boulder, MT?: Required before constructing, erecting, expanding, altering or modifying any building or structure within city limits.
How much does a building permit cost in Boulder, MT?: Fees are calculated as: Follows Montana state guidelines (1-2% of building valuation) plus 35% plan review fee.
How do I apply for a building permit in Boulder, MT?: 1. Complete zoning permit application with required information 2. Prepare site plan showing lot dimensions, existing and proposed buildings, and property uses 3. Submit application to City of Boulder with all required documentation 4. City staff reviews for zoning compliance and planning requirements 5. Approval issued upon verification of compliance 6. Building permit issued after planning approval
How long does it take to get a building permit in Boulder, MT?: Typical processing time is Estimated 2-3 weeks for plan review.
What work is exempt from building permits in Boulder, MT?: The following work is generally exempt: Residential buildings: Less than five dwelling units (state exemption, not serving transient guests); Private garages: For owner's use only, not part of commercial enterprise; Storage buildings: Non-commercial use, owner's own use; Minor additions: Covered entries, porches, patios, and lean-to structures on residential buildings (non-habitable storage only); Decks: Unattached decks not serving as primary entrance. Note: Local city requirements may be stricter than state exemptions; verify with Boulder city planning before proceeding.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Boulder, MT?: Inspections can be scheduled via: .

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Boulder can be complicated.

Jaspector connects you with local experts who can review your scope, verify your contractor, and help you understand what permits your project actually needs.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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