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Bill

HB 802

Revise zoning laws related to the rental of a primary residence

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shannon Maness

Montana bill to revise primary residence rental zoning laws died in committee without advancing; specific regulatory changes unclear from legislative record.

(H) Died in Process
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 802

Legislative bill overview

HB 802 proposed revisions to Montana's zoning laws to address the rental of primary residences, though the specific regulatory changes were not detailed in the available legislative record. The bill was introduced in February 2025 but failed to advance through the committee process, ultimately dying in the legislative session.

Why is this important

Primary residence rental regulations affect housing affordability, neighborhood character, and local tax bases in Montana communities. Zoning laws governing short-term rentals (like Airbnb) versus long-term rentals have become increasingly contentious as housing markets tighten and communities seek to preserve affordable housing stock while balancing property owner rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. statewide standards – Whether Montana should impose uniform rental regulations or allow individual municipalities to set their own zoning rules
  • Short-term rental impact – Concerns that converting primary residences to tourist rentals reduces available long-term housing and increases neighborhood turnover
  • Property owner rights – Tensions between homeowners' ability to generate income from their property and community desires to limit rental conversions

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

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