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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Mineral County
New structuresStructural modifications to existing structuresSubstantial electrical or plumbing workMoving a structureChange of use of a structureDemolition of a structureResidential buildings of 5 or more units
- Exempt Farm and ranch buildings
- Exempt Mining-related buildings on mining property
- Exempt Petroleum refineries, pulp and paper mills (excluding office/shop buildings)
- Exempt Residential buildings containing fewer than 5 dwelling units (not transient facilities)
- Exempt Private garages and private storage buildings used for owner's own use (not part of commercial business)
Note: Electrical and plumbing permits are still required for most structures even if building permit exempted
- Completed Building Permit/Plan Review Application
- Architectural drawings and site plans (to scale, substantial paper)
- Structural plans
- Electrical plans
- Plumbing plans
- Mechanical plans
- Proof of ownership or authorization
- Building valuation estimate for fee calculation
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code, 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), 2020 National Electrical Code, 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code, 2017 ICC A117.1, and 2018 NFPA 99. Montana plans to adopt 2024 ICC codes in mid-2026
Source: Mineral County Environmental Health and Planning Division / Clerk and Recorder's Office ↗
Application process
Typical processing: 2-3 weeks if plans are complete
- 01 Determine permit jurisdiction: Contact Mineral County Planner or Montana Building Codes Program to confirm whether state or local permit is required based on building type and size
- 02 For residential buildings under 5 units: Verify exemption eligibility; plumbing and electrical permits still required
- 03 Prepare construction plans and specifications (must be drawn to scale on substantial paper; north must be indicated)
- 04 Obtain any required local zoning clearance from Mineral County Planning Division
- 05 Prepare Building Permit/Plan Review Application with construction documents
- 06 Submit application to Mineral County Clerk's Office (local) or Montana Building Codes Program (state) with applicable fees
- 07 Plans reviewed for code compliance (typically 2-3 weeks if plans are complete)
- 08 Receive plan review comments by mail or email; respond to comments in writing
- 09 Pay permit fee upon approval
- 10 Receive building permit
- 11 Begin construction and schedule inspections as work progresses
- 12 Request final inspection upon project completion
Typical processing time: 2-3 weeks if plans are complete
Source: Mineral County Environmental Health and Planning Division / Clerk and Recorder's Office ↗
Fee schedule
Mineral County building permit fees
Contact Mineral County Clerk at 406-822-3520 or kmclees@co.mineral.mt.us for specific local fee schedule
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Phone: 406-822-3525 (phone)
- Email (phone)
- Online scheduler if available (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- 24 hours in advance
Typical sequence: Framing inspection (after structural framing complete), Electrical inspection, Plumbing inspection, Mechanical/HVAC inspection, Insulation and drywall inspection, Final inspection (upon completion of all work and trade inspections)
Source: Mineral County Environmental Health and Planning Division / Clerk and Recorder's Office ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Mineral County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Mineral County, MT? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Mineral County, MT? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Mineral County, MT? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Mineral County, MT? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Mineral County, MT? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Mineral County, MT? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Mineral County Environmental Health and Planning Division / Clerk and Recorder's Office before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.