Southeast Montana News

The City of Billings is taking steps to ensure compliance with its short-term rental (STR) regulations by sending courtesy letters to property owners who are not adhering to city codes. More than 300 properties have been identified as being in violation, lacking the necessary STR permit and City business license required for rentals offering stays of less than 30 days.

Adopted in 2021, the short-term rental ordinance aims to mitigate negative impacts on neighborhoods, uphold zoning requirements, and maintain equity among lodging options. The application process for an STR permit includes a requirement for a local contact person who can address complaints or issues related to the property. "The local contact cannot be a corporation; it must be a person," explained Anna Vickers, Planning Division Manager. "This helps us communicate about any complaints or issues we receive from the neighbors or public about the STR."

Currently, obtaining a first-time City business license costs $55, while an STR permit is priced at $300. Both require annual renewal. Courtesy letters will be dispatched during the week of March 10, giving property owners 60 days to comply before their cases are forwarded to the Code Enforcement Division for further action. Non-compliance may result in municipal court citations and civil penalties as outlined in BMCC 18-1304.

"We are hopeful that by sending these courtesy letters, property owners who perhaps did not know about the ordinance will make the decision to obtain the necessary license and permit going forward," Vickers stated. "We are not collecting backpay for previously missed registration fees. We are hopeful to avoid any violations and penalties."

To identify unregistered properties, the City employs software that scans STR websites and cross-references them with city data. The permit application requires acknowledgment of various terms including restrictions on large parties or gatherings, adherence to noise regulations, and confirmation that safety requirements have been met.