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HB 389

Provide for setbacks for wind turbine generators

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brandon Ler

Establishes minimum distance requirements for wind turbines from property lines and structures; died in Montana committee without passage in 2025 session.

(H) Died in Process
#energy #planning
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Bill Summary · HB 389

Legislative bill overview

HB 389 would establish minimum distance requirements (setbacks) that wind turbine generators must maintain from property lines, residences, and other structures in Montana. The bill died in the legislative process without advancing past committee in the 2025 session.

Why is this important

Wind energy development is expanding in Montana, and setback regulations directly affect where turbines can be built, potentially influencing the state's renewable energy capacity, rural property rights, and the viability of wind projects. These distance requirements represent a key point of tension between landowner concerns and clean energy development goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. energy development: Stricter setbacks may protect nearby residents from noise and shadow flicker but could make wind projects economically unfeasible or prevent development on willing landowners' property
  • Rural community impact: Montana counties and landowners have varying preferences on wind development; one-size-fits-all setbacks may not reflect local conditions or community consensus
  • Renewable energy goals: Montana has state renewable energy targets; restrictive setbacks could conflict with meeting these climate and energy objectives by limiting developable wind resource areas

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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