The City of Great Falls has implemented updates to its business license process to ensure compliance with recent changes in the codes of the State of Montana. Effective January 1st, 2025, all existing holders of development or trade licenses within the City of Great Falls are required to reapply using the new application forms. Applications may be submitted in person at the Planning and Community Development office, located at #2 Park Drive South, Suite #112 in the Civic Center, or online at https://greatfallsmt.net/planning/licensing. Current license holders have been informed of these changes through a letter issued by the City.
Effective January 1, 2025, all current development or trades license holders in the City of Great Falls must reapply using the new application forms. The Planning and Community Development Department (PCD) receives and processes these applications, including Contractor License Verifications, Home Occupation Certificates, Non-Resident Vendor Certificates, Gas Fitter Individual Licenses, Telecommunications, Alcoholic Beverage Licenses, and Mobile Home Parks.
All contractors are required to complete the Contractor License Verification Form and to provide the Planning and Community Development Department with copies of their respective state licenses. This requirement is applicable to professionals holding a safety inspection certificate, home business zoning certificate, or non-resident vendor certificate. In addition, applicants must submit their insurance and bond information prior to the issuance of a license.
The City of Great Falls allows individuals to conduct business from their residences for a nominal fee, provided that they adhere to specified zoning requirements. Home businesses must comply with location and size specifications and are subject to restrictions regarding the number of employees and vehicles. Comprehensive zoning requirements are detailed in the application under the Home Occupation Certificate checklist. The following uses do not qualify as a home occupation: veterinary services, medical offices, animal boarding or grooming, barber, hair care, restaurant, vehicle repair, or any other similar high-traffic generation activity.
Business professionals and contractors based outside the City limits must secure a Non-Resident Vendor Certificate to conduct business within the City. This certificate is available for renewal on a weekly or annual basis.
The City of Great Falls is responsible for licensing individuals for gas fitting. Obtaining this license necessitates the completion of a test administered by PCD prior to issuance.
Telecommunication towers must acquire a Telecommunications License and a building permit. This license is mandatory for all providers and contractors offering telecommunication services. Reviews of building and zoning applications will occur concurrently during the evaluation process. Building plans must be prepared by a registered design professional licensed in the State of Montana.
For more information please visit https://greatfallsmt.net/planning/licensing or contact the Planning and Community Development office at (406) 455-8430.
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
