What is Interim Zoning?
Interim Zoning in Montana: Temporary Measures for Protecting Public Welfare During Planning
The Montana zoning statute also authorizes municipalities to adopt “interim” zoning to protect the public safety, health and welfare, 76‐2-306, MCA; (State ex rel. Diehl Co. v. Helena, 181 Mont. 306 (1979)). Such zoning may be enacted as an urgency measure in order to prohibit or otherwise restrict uses that may be in conflict with a contemplated zoning proposal that the governing body is considering, studying, or intending to study within a reasonable time, 76‐2-306(1), MCA. The governing body may adopt interim zoning without following the normal
procedures required for adopting municipal zoning. After holding a properly noticed public hearing, the governing body may adopt interim zoning for a maximum period of 6 months, with the opportunity for two extensions of one year each, 76‐2‐306(2) and 76‐2‐306(3), MCA.
procedures required for adopting municipal zoning. After holding a properly noticed public hearing, the governing body may adopt interim zoning for a maximum period of 6 months, with the opportunity for two extensions of one year each, 76‐2‐306(2) and 76‐2‐306(3), MCA.