---
title: What is Charter Government?
description: "\"Explore how Montana’s Charter Government empowers local control through voter-approved charters defining structure, powers, and duties under MCA 7-3-701 to 7-3-708.\""
---

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January 21, 2026

# What is Charter Government?

Charter Government  
• Government Plan: Self-governing powers MCA 7-3-702  
• Charter form of government shall be established by a charter which is a written document defining the powers, structure, privileges, rights, and duties of the local government and shall not limit the self-governing powers granted by the constitution and a commission chair (mayor or president) MCA 7-3-703  
• The Legislature provides that procedures for a local government unit to adopt a self-government charter with the approval of a majority of those voting on the question MCA 7-3-701  
• Charter provisions establishing executive, legislative, and administrative structure and   
organization are superior to statutory provisions MCA 7-3-701(2)  
• Charter may provide that the executive and administrative functions will be performed by   
one or all members of the legislative body (commission or council) as specified in the voter   
approved charter 46 A.G. Op. 14(1996)  
• Charter provides for an elected body (council or commission) or a legislative body consisting of all qualified electors MCA 7-3-704  
• Popular vote determines the Charter and it specifies which official of government will be chief administrative and executive officer, method of election, term, powers, duties and grounds for   
removal MCA 7-3-705(1)  
• A charter form of government shall have officers, departments, boards, commissions, and agencies as required in the charter, local ordinance, or required by state law MCA 7-3-705(2)  
• Charter specifies effective date and may use partial effectiveness for transition period MCA 7-3-707  
• Charter may not modify local court systems MCA 7-3-708  
• Charter must comply with state established procedures for elections, initiatives, and referendums  
• MCA 7-3-708(2

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Resources prepared by the MSU Extension Local Government Center are intended for educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. For interpretation or application of the law, please consult qualified legal counsel. The Montana State University Extension Service is an ADA/EO/AA/Veteran’s Preference Employer and Provider of Educational Outreach.

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