---
title: What is Interim Zoning?
description: This section explains Montana’s statutory authority for municipalities to adopt interim zoning as an urgency measure. It outlines the conditions, procedures, and time limits for enacting temporary land use restrictions while long-term zoning proposals are under consideration.
---

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November 5, 2025

# 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.

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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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