🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Gallatin County, MT
New Rules on the Horizon: County Seeks Input on STR Definitions
Gallatin County Sets the Stage for Big STR Rule Changes
Gallatin County is moving forward with a significant zoning amendment that could set the tone for how short-term rentals are managed for years to come. Officials have locked in December 9 as the date for a public hearing on Z2025-090, a proposal designed to formally define short-term rental uses and establish more detailed operating standards throughout the county.
One of the standout changes is the introduction of an official STR definition. Up until now, different areas of the county have had varying language around vacation rentals, often making it hard for owners and neighbors to know exactly what applied.
Along with the formal definition, the amendment lays out operating standards meant to guide how STRs interact with surrounding communities. While the fine print is available in the public draft, these standards generally aim to bring more clarity to expectations and responsibilities. This includes how STRs should be maintained, how they fit within existing neighborhoods, and what tools the county can use to follow up on concerns. These updates help set a more predictable foundation for both operators and community members.
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The amendment also includes a cleanup of the appeals language. By aligning appeals procedures with state law and Four Corners Zoning Regulation requirements, the county is working toward a smoother, more transparent process.
To ensure residents can fully explore the proposal before the hearing, Gallatin County has already released the draft online and placed physical copies in multiple county offices. The county is encouraging folks to review the document and share their thoughts in whichever format works best—written comments or in-person testimony on December 9. Officials want to give the community enough time to digest the changes and decide what they’d like to see adjusted or emphasized.
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