Most construction in Billings, Montana requires a permit before you start. And getting a Billings building permit means meeting Montana codes and local regulations as you navigate the sometimes confusing process of preparing and submitting your application.
This guide covers the permit process, including application steps, fees, and inspections to keep your project compliant and moving forward.
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What requires a building permit in Billings?
Under Billings building permit requirements, you’ll need a permit for most construction, structural, or system-related work. The City of Billings Building Division requires permits for:
- New construction
- Demolitions
- Roofing
- Siding
- Decks
- Parking lots
- Fences at or over 8 feet
- Retaining walls over 4 feet
If your project is outside city limits, you may need a Yellowstone County building permit instead.
What doesn’t require a building permit?
Some minor projects may not require a permit if they don’t impact structural integrity or life safety systems. These include:
- Detached sheds not exceeding 200 square feet
- Painting
- Wallpapering and similar finish work
- Sidewalks or driveways (when they will not support a structure and are located entirely on private property)
-
Billings building permit cost
Billings building permit fees are based on project valuation and permit type. Below is a general breakdown:
Valuation fee schedule structure
Because permits for projects valued less than $242,000 are priced for every $1,000 of value, we haven’t listed every fee here. For a full list, view the city’s building permit fee table.
Projects valued above $242,000 are charged a base permit fee plus and additional fee for every additional $1,000 of value:
Higher valuation tiers (formula-based)
Billings trade permits
Plumbing permits
Plumbing permits are required for new plumbing systems, fixture additions, or gas line work.
Permit issuance fees
Unit fee schedule (in addition to permit issuance)
To learn more about plumbing permit fees, visit the Billings plumbing permit fee page.
Electrical permits
Electrical permits are required for panel upgrades, new circuits, and electrical system modifications.
Residential / specific electrical permit fees
Commercial / industrial / institutional electrical fees (project-cost based)
Need details on electrical permit fees? Check the electrical fees page.
HVAC permits
HVAC permits cover work on heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
Permit issuance fees
Unit fee schedule (selected items from file)
Get additional information on HVAC permit fees by visiting the mechanical permit fees page.
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How to get a building permit in Billings
Step 1: Confirm if you need a permit
Most construction on private property requires a permit. Common projects include:
- Permit required: Roofing, siding, decks, fences >8 feet, retaining walls >4 feet, and parking lots
- No permit required: Detached sheds under 200 sq. ft., painting, and wallpapering
Note: Fences between 4 and 6 feet require a separate Zoning Permit from the Planning Division, not a building permit.
Step 2: Prepare your digital documents
All plans must be submitted as high-quality PDFs. A complete packet typically includes:
- Billings building permit application: Download and complete the fillable PDF.
- Construction drawings: Minor residential projects require clear sketches; major commercial projects must be stamped by a Montana-licensed architect or engineer
- Site plan: Must show building size, lot dimensions, setbacks, and utility lines (call 811 before digging)
- Contractor proof: Contractors must have a valid City of Billings Business License and current bond/insurance on file with the city
Step 3: Apply via the new portal
Use the new CityView Live portal for all submissions.
- Access the portal: Go to the Billings Citizen Access Portal
- Create an account: Register as a "New User" and link your professional license
- Submit application: Select your permit type (Residential vs. Commercial) and upload your PDF exhibits
Step 4: Plan review & timelines
The Building Division reviews your plans for compliance with International Building Codes (IBC/IRC) and local zoning.
- Residential (single-family/duplex): 4–7 business days
- Minor commercial: 2–4 weeks
- Major commercial: 3–6 weeks
Note: For complex commercial projects, you can request a Concept Review Meeting before submitting to identify potential issues early.
Step 5: Pay fees and activate permit
Once approved, you will be notified via email to pay your fees online.
Step 6: Inspection phases
You must schedule inspections at various stages (footing, framing, rough-in, final).
- Scheduling: Use the Billings building permit online portal or call (406) 657-8270
- PIN number: You will need the PIN number printed on your issued permit to schedule an inspection
Permit inspections in Billings
Most projects require a sequence of "stop-work" inspections. You cannot proceed to the next phase (e.g., hanging drywall) until the previous phase (e.g., framing/rough-in) is approved. Common inspections include:
- Footings and foundation: Before pouring concrete
- Under-slab plumbing/electrical: Before the slab is poured
- Sheathing: Specifically for high-wind or seismic braced wall panels
- Framing & trade rough-ins: After electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems are in the walls, but before insulation
- Insulation & energy: Verifying R-values and air sealing
- Final inspection: To verify code compliance and life safety before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued
How to schedule inspections
The Building Division requires a minimum 24-hour notice for all inspection requests.
- Online (preferred): Use the Billings Citizen Access Portal. You must have your Permit Number and PIN Number (printed on the top right of your permit) to schedule
- By phone: Call the Building Division at (406) 657-8270
- By email: Send requests to permits@billingsmt.gov (include permit number, address, and type of inspection)
Inspection process
- Time windows: Inspections are generally performed Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. While specific times aren't guaranteed, you can call the office on the morning of your inspection to get a rough AM/PM window from your specific inspector
- Access: The inspector must have clear access to the site. If the property is occupied, an adult (18+) must be present to allow entry
- Failed inspections: If an inspection fails, the inspector will leave a "Correction Notice." You must fix the items and schedule a Re-inspection
- Re-inspection fee: A fee may be charged for excessive re-inspections (typically starting at $50–$100) if the work is not ready when the inspector arrives
- Final approval: For commercial projects, a Certificate of Occupancy is required before you can move in or transfer water service billing. For minor residential work, a Certificate of Final Inspection is issued
Essential contacts
- Building division main line: (406) 657-8270
- Electrical/plumbing inspectors: See the Staff Directory for direct lines to trade-specific inspectors if you have technical code questions
- Fire department final inspections: (406) 657-8423 (Required for all commercial projects)
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Billings permitting resources
- City of Billings Building Division
- Address: 2825 3rd Ave N, Billings, MT 59101
- Phone: (406) 657-8270
- Office hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM MT
- Building permits info
- Permit fee schedule
- Montana state building codes & permits
- Frequently asked questions
- Billings building permit application
- Building/Zoning permit and code enforcement information map
- How do I request a building inspection?
- Introduction to GoPost
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