Butte-Silver Bow Zoning & Land Use Guide
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Butte-Silver Bow
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — Montana
- Building Code: Montana Building Code (based on 2021 IBC)
- State ADU Override: Yes (SB 528 and HB 211)
County — Silver Bow County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, consolidated city-county government
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
| District Code | Name | Min Lot | Max Height | Front Setback | Side Setback | Rear Setback | FAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-1 | Single-Family Residential | 7,500 sq ft | 35 ft | 25 ft | 7 ft | 20 ft | — |
| R-3 | Multi-Family Residential | 5,000 sq ft | 45 ft | 20 ft | 8 ft | 20 ft | — |
| C-2 | General Commercial | None | 50 ft | 0 ft | 0 ft | 10 ft | — |
ADU Rules in Butte-Silver Bow
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- 900 sq ft
- Max Height
- 24 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Parking
- None required (per state law SB 245)
- Owner Occupancy
- Not required (per state law)
- Permit Timeline
- 3-5 weeks
Official Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Butte-Silver Bow?
Yes. Montana state law (SB 528 and HB 211) requires local governments to allow ADUs. Butte-Silver Bow permits accessory dwelling units in residential zones with local size and setback standards.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Butte-Silver Bow?
Contact the Butte-Silver Bow Planning Department at (406) 497-6250 or visit the county website for zoning map information.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Butte-Silver Bow?
Multi-family housing is allowed in R-3 (Multi-Family Residential) and several commercial zones in Butte-Silver Bow.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.