---
title: What is the Procedure for Adoption and Amendment?
description: This section details the statutory process for adopting and amending zoning ordinances in Montana, including the roles of the zoning commission and governing body, public hearing requirements, and protest provisions. It emphasizes the need for substantial compliance with the growth policy and the Lowe criteria in all zoning decisions.
---

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1. [MSU Extension Local Government Center](https://www.lgc.montana.edu/knowledge-base?hsLang=en)

September 19, 2025

# What is the Procedure for Adoption and Amendment?

## Zoning Adoption and Amendment Procedures: Public Participation and Legal Standards in Montana

The statute also sets forth the procedure for adopting and amending zoning ordinances and regulations. The zoning  
commission must recommend the district boundaries and regulations to the governing body, 76-2-307, MCA. The  
zoning commission must prepare a preliminary report and “hold public hearings thereon” before submitting the  
report to the governing body. After receiving the report of the zoning commission, the governing body must hold  
a public hearing on the proposed regulations, with at least 15 days prior notice in a paper of general circulation, 76-2-  
303(2), MCA.  
Amendments or changes to the zoning ordinance must follow the same public notice and hearing requirements for  
adoption, and the statute provides for a protest provision to any such changes, 76‐2‐305, MCA. The governing body  
may override such a protest by a two-thirds vote of the present and voting members. As set forth above, the  
governing body must again consider substantial compliance with the growth policy and each of the eleven  
Lowe criteria in any zoning amendments or rezoning decisions.

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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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