Beta — site is under development, information may contain errors. Read disclaimer
Zoning Guide

Helena Zoning & Land Use Guide

Data-only stub — facts unverified locally. Confirm with the planning department before relying on details.
Last updated: Verified:

What we have on file vs. what to verify locally

We don't have editor-verified zoning prose for Helenayet. Here's the structured data we do have, and the highest-leverage steps to confirm specifics for your parcel.

What we have on file

Population:
32,091
County:
Lewis and Clark County
State building code:
Montana Building Codes Bureau administers code (based on 2021 IBC)(statewide default)
State ADU law:
Yes — Montana SB 528 (2023), codified at MCA 76-2-345, requires municipalities to adopt regulations allowing at least one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot containing a single-family dwelling. SB 382 (2023, the Montana Land Use Planning Act) separately reorganized how larger Montana cities plan for housing.
FEMA flood map:
Search flood zones
Planning department:
City of Helena Community Development
Municipal code:
View code online
Zoning map:
View city zoning map

Verify these locally

  • Call the City of Helena Community Development: (406) 447-8490
  • Search the municipal code for the chapter that covers your zoning district and proposed use.
  • Use the city zoning map to look up your parcel's zoning designation before applying for a permit.
  • Check FEMA flood zone for your parcel — flood-zone status changes setbacks, foundation requirements, and insurance.
  • Check your HOA CC&Rs and recorded deed restrictions — they are common in Helena and frequently restrict ADUs, fences, and exterior changes beyond what zoning allows.

Key Zoning Facts

Planning Department
City of Helena Community Development(406) 447-8490
Building Code Edition
Montana Building Code (based on 2021 IBC)
ADUs Allowed
Yes

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Helena

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Montana

  • Building Code: Montana Building Code (based on 2021 IBC)
  • State ADU Override: Yes (SB 528 and HB 211)
View Montana zoning overview

County — Lewis and Clark County

    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.

    Statewide Context (Montana)

    Local data for Helena is limited. The following state-level facts apply across Montana and are inherited by this page until city-specific details are verified.

    State Building Code
    Montana Building Codes Bureau administers code (based on 2021 IBC)
    State ADU Preemption
    Yes — state law overrides local rules
    Coastal Zone
    No
    Wildfire Zones
    Yes

    ADU Rules in Helena

    ADUs:Allowed
    Max Size
    900 sq ft
    Max Height
    24 ft
    Rear Setback
    5 ft
    Side Setback
    5 ft
    Parking
    Verify with local jurisdiction
    Owner Occupancy
    Not required (per state law)
    Permit Timeline
    3-5 weeks

    Permit Costs & Timelines

    Permit Costs & Timelines

    Specific permit fee schedules for Helena are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

    Check Helena permit fees →

    Official Sources

    City-specific

    City of Helena Community Developmenthelenamt.govOfficial sourceHelena Municipal Codelibrary.municode.comOfficial source