You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-03.
Belgrade building permits
VerifiedBelgrade, Montana — as published 2026-07-03.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Codes adopted
Montana has a mandatory statewide building code administered by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) Building Codes Bureau, amended by the Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) Title 24, Chapter 301. Cities, counties, and towns may become 'certified' to locally administer permitting and inspection for all or part of the code (building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, swimming pool, etc.); non-certified areas/trades fall under direct state administration by the DLI Building Codes Bureau. Source: Montana DLI Building Codes Bureau, Certified Local Government Program list (bsd.dli.mt.gov/_docs/building-codes-permits/certified-city.pdf) and Current Codes page (bsd.dli.mt.gov/building-codes-permits/current-codes).Belgrade is a Montana DLI-certified jurisdiction for Building (B), Plumbing (P), Electrical (E), Mechanical (M), and Swimming Pool (SP) within Belgrade city limits — the full certification set (matching Billings), not a partial split. Certified building official on file with DLI: Lucas Sobeck, (406) 388-3560/388-3564. Source: Montana DLI Building Codes Bureau, Montana Certified Local Government Program list (PDF, updated 04/22/2026), bsd.dli.mt.gov/_docs/building-codes-permits/certified-city.pdfCity of Belgrade has adopted (as of 8/8/2022, per the City's Building FAQ) the 2021 editions of the International Residential Code (IRC), International Building Code (IBC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), International Existing Building Code (IEBC), Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC); the 2017 ICC A117.1 Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities; and the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC). Source: City of Belgrade Building FAQ, 'What building code year has the City of Belgrade most recently adopted?' (belgrademt.gov/Faq.aspx?QID=135)2021 International Residential Code (IRC) — applies to single-family, two-family, and townhouse dwellings; effective statewide per ARM 24.301.154. Source: City of Belgrade Adopted Codes (PDF), belgrademt.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1228/Adopted-Codes2021 International Building Code (IBC) — commercial; per ARM 24.301.1462021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) — residential and commercial; per ARM 24.301.1722021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) — residential and commercial; per ARM 24.301.1732021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) — residential and commercial; per ARM 24.301.161. Appendix RB (Solar Ready Provisions) adopted for commercial2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) — per ARM 24.301.4012021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) (IAPMO) — per ARM 24.301.301 (Montana uses the Uniform Plumbing Code, not the International Plumbing Code)2021 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) — commercial; per ARM 24.301.1712021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) — commercial; per ARM 24.301.175; Belgrade is DLI-certified for swimming pool (SP) permittingICC A117.1-2017 Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities — commercial; per ARM Subchapter 24.301.92012 International Fire Code — per ARM Rule 23.12.601 (state fire code edition; City of Belgrade Building Department coordinates with the Belgrade Fire Department, and per the City's Inspections page, fire inspections within Belgrade city limits are now handled directly through the City's Building Department due to a recent state rule change)IRC Appendix Q (Tiny Houses) — adopted statewide per ARMDesign Live Loading, Snow Load, Frost Depth, Wind Speed, Weathering, and Seismic Design Category are set out in the City of Belgrade Design Criteria document (see localAmendments) — these are notably more stringent than nearby Billings, reflecting Belgrade's local site conditionsSource: City of Belgrade Adopted Codes (PDF), https://www.belgrademt.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1228/Adopted-Codes; City of Belgrade Design Criteria (PDF), https://www.belgrademt.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1016/Design-Criteria
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Construction, ADU, Addition, Remodel)
VerifiedRequired for new single-family homes, duplexes, townhomes, detached and attached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), additions, and remodels within Belgrade city limits. Reviewed against the 2021 IRC and City of Belgrade Design Criteria. Applications submitted online via the Cityworks portal.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, or occupancy change of a building or structure, or installation/alteration/repair of electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems regulated by City of Belgrade adopted codes
- Exempt: residential accessory buildings less than 200 square feet
- Plans drawn to 1/4 inch = 1 foot scale, fully dimensioned, clear and legible; minimum page size 24x36 (remodels may be 11x17; digital preferred)
- Complete building plans required — no deferred plans or documents accepted; incomplete submittals are returned to the applicant at prescreen
- Checklist must be completed by the project's Montana-licensed design professional of record (or the applicant if no design professional is required)
- Plans must comply with City of Belgrade Design Criteria: 46 psf ground snow load, 41 psf roof snow load, 115 mph wind speed, 36in/48in frost depth (one-story/two-story), Seismic Design Category D0 (residential)
- Site-specific Geotechnical Analysis required at permit application; Final Observation Report required prior to footing inspection
- Townhouse projects with more than 4 attached units require plans prepared, signed, and sealed by a Montana-licensed architect
- ADU submittals require a Water Fixture Count in addition to standard residential plan requirements
- Building Envelope Energy Compliance required: REScheck analysis (signed) or prescriptive-method compliance shown on plans
- Occupancy granted only after final inspection is completed and Air Test (blower door) results and Energy Sticker are submitted to the inspector
- Application submitted online via the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login)
Required documents
- RequiredChecklist Submittal for Single Family Dwelling, Detached Dwelling Units (ADU), Accessory Structures; Townhome/Duplex/Attached ADUCity of Belgrade residential plan-submittal checklist covering cover sheet, site plan, foundation plan, floor plans, elevations, structural building section, framing plans, mechanical/electrical information, and additional documents (REScheck, structural calcs, truss keys, water fixture count for ADUs)
- OptionalStatement of Special InspectionsCompleted by the design engineer (or architect/applicant if no engineer) where applicable
- OptionalPlanning & Zoning Letter(s) of ApprovalWhere applicable — e.g., Conditional Use Permit, Planned Unit Development (PUD), NCOA/COA, Flood Plain approval
- RequiredCityworks Online ApplicationSubmitted via cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login; see Online Portal User Guide (belgrademt.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1511)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plan Review | Valuation x 0.0024 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule (Resolution 2025-14, effective July 1, 2025), BUILDING CODE table |
| Building Permit | Valuation x 0.0076 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, BUILDING CODE table |
| Addressing Fee | $35 per address/unit number | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees table |
Electrical Permit
VerifiedRequired for electrical installation, alteration, or repair work in Belgrade, governed by the 2020 NEC. Belgrade is a Montana DLI-certified jurisdiction for electrical permitting, issued directly by the City of Belgrade Building Department (not the state).
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical permit required for installation, change, or repair of any hard-wired electrical system
- Governed by the 2020 NEC as adopted by City of Belgrade
- Separate fee schedule applies for commercial (by project cost), single-family residential (by amperage), residential rewire, change of service, accessory buildings, modular/mobile homes/RVs, multi-family, irrigation/livestock wells, and alternate energy source add-ons
- Multi-family buildings over 12 units require a commercial electrical permit
- Apply through the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login)
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the Cityworks Portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Electrical Permit — $0-$1,000 project cost | $45 up to $500, plus 6% of the balance of the project cost | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Commercial Electrical Permit — $1,001-$10,000 project cost | $75 up to $1,000, plus 2% of the balance of the project cost | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Commercial Electrical Permit — $10,001-$50,000 project cost | $255 up to $10,000, plus 0.5% of the balance of the project cost | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Commercial Electrical Permit — $50,001 or more project cost | $455 up to $50,000, plus 0.3% of the balance of the project cost | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Residential Electrical Permit — up to 200 AMP service | $200 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Residential Electrical Permit — 201 to 400 AMP service | $380 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Residential Electrical Permit — 401 to 600 AMP service | $600 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Residential Electrical Permit — 601 AMP service and up | $800 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Interior/Exterior Wire or Rewire — 4+ circuits with change of service and/or interior panel | $120 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Interior/Exterior Wire or Rewire — 4+ circuits (no panel board or change of service) | $100 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Interior/Exterior Wire or Rewire — 2-3 additional circuits or pieces of equipment | $70 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Single Family Interior/Exterior Wire or Rewire — 1 additional circuit or piece of equipment | $45 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Residential Change of Service — exterior meter base & interior/exterior main disconnect | $45 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Residential Change of Service — disconnect with feeder and distribution panel board | $75 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Private Property Accessory Building (barn, garage, etc.) — up to 200 AMP panel | $80 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Private Property Accessory Building — 201 to 300 AMP panel | $150 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Private Property Accessory Building — 300 or more AMP panel | $250 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Modular Home, Mobile Home, or RV — with basement/addition wired at same time | $120 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Modular Home, Mobile Home, or RV — located on privately owned property | $80 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Modular Home, Mobile Home, or RV — located on rental space in licensed court with existing service | $40 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Multi-Family Dwellings — up to 200 AMP service (per building, up to 12 units) | $180, plus $60 per unit up to 12 units | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table; over 12 units requires a commercial electrical permit |
| Multi-Family Dwellings — 201 to 400 AMP service | $380, plus $60 per unit up to 12 units | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Multi-Family Dwellings — 401 to 600 AMP service | $580, plus $60 per unit up to 12 units | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Multi-Family Dwellings — 601 AMP service and up | $780, plus $60 per unit up to 12 units | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Multi-Family Dwellings — rewire/remodel only | $100 per unit | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Livestock Wells, Residential Irrigation Wells | $50 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Alternate Energy Source (solar, wind, etc.) add-on | $65, added to the base fee above | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Permit Renewal (expired permit) | $60 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Requested Inspection | $60 for the first hour, $30 per hour after | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
EV Charger / EVSE Installation Permit
VerifiedBelgrade has no separate EV charger/EVSE permit category. A dedicated circuit for a home Level 2 EV charger is billed under the City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule's existing Electrical Permit line items for added circuits or change of service, issued directly by the City of Belgrade Building Department (Belgrade is a Montana DLI-certified local jurisdiction for electrical permitting).
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical permit required for installing a new dedicated circuit, receptacle, or hardwired connection for an EV charger — governed by the 2020 NEC as adopted by the City of Belgrade
- No distinct 'EV charger' or 'EVSE' line item appears on the City's published Master Fee Schedule; the applicable line item is the general Single Family Interior/Exterior Wire or Rewire fee category based on the number of circuits/equipment added, or the Residential Change of Service fee category if the electrical service/panel must be upsized to support the charger
- Apply through the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login)
- If a new accessory structure (e.g., detached garage/carport) houses the charger, the Private Property Accessory Building electrical fee category applies instead of the wire/rewire category
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the Cityworks Portal; no separate EV-specific application form is published
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Family Interior/Exterior Wire or Rewire — 1 additional circuit or piece of equipment (typical for a dedicated EV charger circuit added to an existing panel with capacity) | $45 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table — general fee category, not EV-specific; applies to any single additional circuit or equipment hookup |
| Residential Change of Service — disconnect with feeder and distribution panel board (applies if panel upgrade is needed to support EV charger load) | $75 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
| Alternate Energy Source (solar, wind, etc.) add-on | $65, added to the base fee above | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table — included for reference only; EV chargers are not explicitly listed under this 'alternate energy source' category, which appears to target on-site generation (solar/wind) rather than vehicle charging load |
Plumbing Permit
VerifiedRequired for plumbing installation, alteration, or repair work in Belgrade, governed by the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Belgrade is a Montana DLI-certified jurisdiction for plumbing permitting, issued directly by the City of Belgrade Building Department.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Plumbing permit required for installation, alteration, or repair of any plumbing system, fixture, water heater, gas piping, or sewer/water service line
- Governed by the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) as adopted by City of Belgrade — not the International Plumbing Code
- Apply through the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login)
Required documents
- RequiredPlumbing Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the Cityworks Portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Each plumbing fixture or trap (bath tub, lavatory, shower, urinal, water closet, kitchen sink, service sink, wash/laundry tray, car wash sump, ice machine, glass fill station, aspirator, coffee maker, drinking fountain, dental chair, floor drain, area drain, indirect waste, grease trap, bar sink, floor/mop sink, sump drain/lift station, glass washer, X-ray tank) | $10 each | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Gray Water System | $60 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Repair of drainage or vent pipe | $30 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Alteration or repair of water pipe | $30 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Each connection to water system | $20 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Each connection to wastewater system | $20 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Each new water heater | $25 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Each storm drain/drainage system | $30 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Each lawn sprinkler or fire protection connection | $30 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Each industrial water pre-treatment equipment | $30 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Each hosebib or vacuum breaker | $6 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
| Single Family residential gas line | $48 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Plumbing Permits table |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedRequired for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and related mechanical installations in Belgrade, governed by the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) and International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). Belgrade is a Montana DLI-certified jurisdiction for mechanical permitting.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Mechanical permit required for installation, relocation, or alteration of mechanical systems (furnaces, ductwork, exhaust fans, gas lines, etc.)
- Governed by the 2021 IMC and 2021 IFGC as adopted by City of Belgrade
- Fee is tiered by the cost of the mechanical system being installed
- Apply through the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login)
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the Cityworks Portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Permit — $0 to $10,000 cost of mechanical system | $48 up to $1,000, plus $14 for each additional $1,000 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Mechanical Permits table |
| Mechanical Permit — $10,001 to $50,000 cost of mechanical system | $166 up to $10,000, plus $9 for each additional $1,000 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Mechanical Permits table |
| Mechanical Permit — $50,001 or more cost of mechanical system | $514 up to $50,000, plus $6 for each additional $1,000 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Mechanical Permits table |
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems in Belgrade. Requires both a Building Permit (structural/CAD review per the City's Solar Checklist) and an Electrical Permit with the Alternate Energy Source add-on. Governed by 2020 NEC, 2021 IBC, and 2021 IRC.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- CAD submittal must include plaques, equipment elevation drawings, neutral pass-thru, NG (Neutral-Ground) bond, production meter, disconnect, and separate PDF pages per component, per the City of Belgrade Solar Checklist
- Applicable codes: Electrical work under 2020 NEC; Building under 2021 IBC; Residential under 2021 IRC
- Engineering submittal must include a structural engineer stamp, engineering calculations, a one-line diagram, and a wet stamp
- Fire setback requirements: eaves 3 feet on one side; ridges 1.5 feet; hips 1.5 feet; valleys 1.5 feet
- Electrical Permit must include the $65 Alternate Energy Source add-on on top of the applicable base electrical fee
Required documents
- RequiredSolar ChecklistCity of Belgrade Solar Plan Submittal Requirements — CAD requirements and engineering requirements checklist
- RequiredBuilding/Electrical Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the Cityworks Portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit (valuation-based, project cost used as valuation) | Valuation x 0.0076, plus Plan Review at Valuation x 0.0024 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, BUILDING CODE table; no dedicated solar-specific building fee line exists |
| Alternate Energy Source add-on (Electrical Permit) | $65, added to the applicable base electrical fee (e.g., a private accessory building or residential rewire fee category) | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Electrical Permits table |
Land Use Permit (Fence, Deck, Patio, Shed, Accessory Structure)
VerifiedFences, decks, patios, sheds, greenhouses, and other vertical accessory structures in Belgrade are reviewed under a Land Use Permit (LUP) — a Planning/Zoning-issued permit distinct from the Building Permit — to confirm allowable use, height, and setback compliance. Larger residential/accessory or multi-family/commercial projects use the Standard or Major LUP tiers, which include a Site Plan Review.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- LUP Minor covers (but is not limited to) fences, decks, patios, sheds, greenhouses, and other vertical accessory structures — confirms allowable use, height, and that the structure is not within a required setback
- LUP Standard applies to residential and accessory structures defined by zoning that require permitting beyond the Minor tier
- LUP Major (includes Site Plan Review) applies to multi-family, non-residential, institutional, and industrial projects
- A Pre-Application LUP is required per the Zoning Code before submitting a Land Use Permit; a Pre-Application Site Plan Review is required before a Major LUP submittal
- Structures built before obtaining a required LUP are charged double the base Land Use Permit fee ('Land Use Permit After the Fact')
- A Land Use Permit Revisit fee applies if a second (or additional) site visit is required after initial submittal
- A Land Use Permit Modification fee applies to changes the Planning Director deems not to require a full new submittal
Required documents
- RequiredLand Use Permit ApplicationCity of Belgrade Planning & Zoning Land Use Permit application (Minor/Standard/Major tier per project scope)
- OptionalSite PlanRequired for Major LUP (includes Site Plan Review) and recommended showing setbacks/dimensions for Minor/Standard LUP
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Application Land Use Permit (LUP) | No fee listed (fee cell shows "-") | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
| Land Use Permit (LUP) Minor — fences, decks, patios, sheds, greenhouses, other vertical accessory structures | $150 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
| Land Use Permit (LUP) Standard — residential and accessory structures requiring zoning permitting | The greater of $400 or 0.25% (1/4 of one percent) of the market value of construction, excluding land cost; maximum $5,000 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
| Pre-Application Site Plan Review | $300 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
| Land Use Permit (LUP) Major (includes Site Plan Review) — multi-family, non-residential, institutional, industrial | The greater of $400 or 0.25% (1/4 of one percent) of the market value of construction, excluding land cost; maximum $25,000 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
| Land Use Permit After the Fact | Double the base Land Use Permit fee | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
| Land Use Permit Revisit | $200 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
| Land Use Permit Modification | $100 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Land Use Permits & Site Plan Review table |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for demolition of a building or structure within Belgrade city limits, per the City's Building Permit framework (demolition is one of the work types explicitly requiring a permit).
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Permit required for demolition of a building or structure, per the City's building-permit-required work types ('construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure')
- Apply through the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login)
Required documents
- RequiredDemolition Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the Cityworks Portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demo Permit | $25 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, BUILDING CODE table (Plan Review Fees section) |
Commercial Building Permit & Fire Plan Review
VerifiedRequired for new commercial construction, additions, and alterations in Belgrade, reviewed against the 2021 IBC and City of Belgrade Design Criteria, plus a separate Fire Plan Review fee schedule for fire protection, alarm, and suppression systems. Fire inspections within city limits are now handled directly by the City's Building Department per a recent state rule change.
Verified 2026-07-03 · Source
Requirements
- Commercial building permit required for new construction, additions, alterations, and occupancy changes, reviewed against the 2021 IBC
- Plans must comply with City of Belgrade Design Criteria: 46 psf ground snow load, 41 psf roof snow load, 115 mph wind speed, 36in/48in frost depth, Seismic Design Category D (commercial, determined per IBC Sections 1613.2.1-1613.2.5)
- Site-specific Geotechnical Analysis required at permit application; Final Observation Report required prior to footing inspection
- Fire Protection/Alarm/Sprinkler/Hood-Suppression systems require a separate Fire Plan Review submittal and fee, tiered by system type, sprinkler head count, or square footage
- Documentation of state inspection results required for elevators and boilers
- Provide a final set of building plans reflecting any changes made during construction, prior to final inspection
- Apply through the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login)
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial/Multi-Family ChecklistCity of Belgrade commercial and multi-family plan-submittal checklist
- OptionalFire Plan Review SubmittalRequired for projects with fire sprinkler, alarm, hood/Ansul, or dry-chemical suppression systems
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit | Valuation x 0.0076 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, BUILDING CODE table |
| Plan Review | Valuation x 0.0024 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, BUILDING CODE table |
| Fire Protection & Fire Alarm Review — Base | $125 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Plan Review Service Fees table |
| Fire Protection Only Review — Base | $575 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Plan Review Service Fees table |
| Add Sprinkler Heads (up to 100 heads) | $818.75 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Plan Review Service Fees table |
| Add Sprinkler Heads (101-200 heads) | $962.50 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Plan Review Service Fees table |
| Add Sprinkler Heads (201-300 heads) | $1,375 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Plan Review Service Fees table |
| Add Sprinkler Heads (301-500 heads) | $1,100, plus $31.25 per additional 50 heads | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Plan Review Service Fees table |
| Add additional sprinkler heads beyond 500 (top tier) | $63.75 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule; source HTML literally labels this tier 'Add 01+ Sprinkler Heads' (likely a truncated '501+') — reported verbatim as published, not corrected |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System — Base Fee | $125 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (up to 2,500 SF) | $462.50 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (2,501-7,500 SF) | $575 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (7,501-10,000 SF) | $962.50 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (10,001-25,000 SF) | $1,375 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (25,001-50,000 SF) | $1,625 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (50,001-100,000 SF) | $1,812.50 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (100,001-200,000 SF) | $2,062.50 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (200,001-400,000 SF) | $1,500 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Fire Detection & Alarm System (over 400,001 SF) | $0.19 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule; source table shows only "$0.19" with no explicit per-SF unit label on this row, unlike the flat-dollar tiers above — reported verbatim as published |
| Add Dry Chemical suppression review | $518.75 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Add Hood System Review | $518.75 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| Add Ansul System Review | $518.75 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Fire Detection and Alarm System table |
| General Fire Code Review | $143.75 per hour (one-hour minimum if done by a PE) | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Other Fire Plan Review Services table |
| Fire Department Access review | $206.25 per hour (one-hour minimum if done by a PE) | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Other Fire Plan Review Services table |
| Building, Plumbing, Mechanical & Energy Code review | $143.75 per hour (one-hour minimum if done by a PE) | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Other Fire Plan Review Services table |
| Structural Engineering Plan Review | $206.25 per hour (one-hour minimum if done by a PE) | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Other Fire Plan Review Services table |
Sign Permit
VerifiedRequired to erect, place, relocate, expand, modify, or structurally alter most signs within Belgrade city limits, per Belgrade City Code Title 10, Chapter 5 (Signs) and Chapter 6, Section 10-6-13 (Sign Permit Required). Applications are filed with Planning & Zoning staff and issued by the Community Development Director; a Sign Variance may be requested if the sign standards create undue hardship.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- A zoning permit (Sign Permit) is required to erect, place, relocate, expand, modify, maintain, or otherwise alter a sign in the City, per Belgrade City Code 10-5-1, unless the sign qualifies for an exemption under 10-5-2 (e.g., signs not visible from a public right-of-way, small yard signs, home-occupation signs, A-frame/T-frame signs, temporary new-business banners up to 90 days, one small wall sign per residential lot up to 1 square foot, and similar categories)
- Sign permit applications must be filed with Planning staff on City-provided forms and include: name/contact information for the sign owner, property owner, and sign contractor; a scaled and dimensioned PDF site plan showing all buildings and existing signs; clear scale drawings with sign description, nominal dimensions, and construction materials; a time-stamped photo (at most one year old) of the proposed sign location; a before-and-after color rendering; wind pressure load calculations/evidence of compliance; evidence of required liability insurance or bond; and signatures of the applicant and property owner (Belgrade City Code 10-6-13.A)
- Signs encroaching on the public right-of-way require additional application content: identification of the encroachment, an acknowledgment the City may revoke encroachment permission, a hold-harmless agreement, and a certificate of general liability insurance of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence (Belgrade City Code 10-6-13.B)
- A properly completed sign permit application not formally granted or denied within ten (10) days constitutes cause for an appeal to the Planning Board (Belgrade City Code 10-6-13.C.1)
- Erecting, altering, moving, or structurally modifying a sign without a permit — or in violation of an issued permit — requires removal or compliance within 5 days of written notice; the after-the-fact permit fee is double the normal fee (Belgrade City Code 10-6-13.E.1)
- A Sign Variance (Belgrade City Code 10-6-17) may be requested if the sign regulations impose undue or unnecessary hardship
Required documents
- RequiredSign Permit ApplicationCity of Belgrade Planning & Zoning sign permit application form, listing sign owner/property owner/contractor contact information
- RequiredScaled PDF Site PlanShows all buildings on the property and the location, size, and type of existing signs, per Belgrade City Code 10-6-13.A
- RequiredSign Scale DrawingsDescription and nominal dimensions of the proposed sign, plus construction size, dimensions, and materials
- RequiredTime-Stamped Site PhotoPhoto of the proposed sign location dated within the past year
- RequiredBefore-and-After Color RenderingColor rendering showing the proposed sign location before and after installation
- RequiredWind Pressure Load CalculationsCalculations or evidence that the structure, design, and mounts comply with the code's wind pressure load requirements
- OptionalCertificate of General Liability Insurance ($1,000,000 minimum)Required only where the sign encroaches on the public right-of-way, per Belgrade City Code 10-6-13.B
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sign Permit | $150 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Planning & Zoning table |
| Master Sign Plan | $400 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Planning & Zoning table |
| Sign Variance to Planning Board | $1,250 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Planning & Zoning table; corresponds to the variance process in Belgrade City Code 10-6-17 |
| After-the-Fact Sign Permit (unpermitted or noncompliant sign) | Double the normal Sign Permit fee | Belgrade City Code 10-6-13.E.1 |
Fire Sprinkler & Fire Alarm Permit
VerifiedFire sprinkler and fire alarm system installations within Belgrade city limits are reviewed and permitted by Central Valley Fire District (CVFD), not the City of Belgrade Building Department — Belgrade voters annexed into CVFD in 2020. Plans are submitted through CVFD's own portal, governed by the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) as adopted by CVFD.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- Submit fire sprinkler and fire alarm plans directly to Central Valley Fire District through CVFD's own permit portal — not the City's Cityworks portal — per the City of Belgrade Commercial/Multi-Family Document Submittal Checklist ('Central Valley Fire District - Submit to fire Central Valley through their own portal')
- City of Belgrade residents voted in 2020 to annex into Central Valley Fire District after years of a contractual Interlocal Agreement; CVFD (215 Wings Way, Belgrade, MT 59714; (406) 388-4480) is now Belgrade's fire code enforcement, inspection, and fire-system permitting authority
- Governed by the 2021 International Fire Code as adopted by CVFD Board Resolution 222307 (effective for permits/reviews after April 12, 2023; the 2012 IFC applied before that date), plus the NFPA standards referenced within the 2021 IFC (including NFPA 13/13D sprinkler standards and fire alarm standards)
- Fire sprinkler/fire alarm layouts and specs must also be included in the plan set submitted to the City of Belgrade Building Department when the system is part of a new commercial building or tenant improvement, per the City's Commercial/Multi-Family Checklist
- A failed final inspection or acceptance test requires a paid CVFD re-inspection ($100) before the system can be approved
- Operational permits (separate from the installation permit) are required for hazardous occupancies and operations as defined by the International Fire Code
Required documents
- RequiredFire Sprinkler/Fire Alarm Plan SubmittalSubmitted through Central Valley Fire District's own online permit portal; system layout, specifications, and (for commercial systems) design calculations
- OptionalFire Sprinkler/Fire Alarm Layouts and Specs (Building Department copy)Included in the plan set submitted to the City of Belgrade Building Department when the fire system is part of a new commercial building or tenant improvement, per the Commercial/Multi-Family Checklist
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Fire Sprinkler Installation (NFPA 13D) | $200 flat | Central Valley Fire District Fee Schedule — covers plan review and final inspection |
| Commercial Sprinkler | $150 per hour, 2-hour minimum | Central Valley Fire District Fee Schedule — covers plan review, required inspections, and acceptance testing |
| Commercial Fire Alarm | $150 per hour, 2-hour minimum | Central Valley Fire District Fee Schedule — covers plan review, required inspections, and acceptance testing |
| Alternative Fire Extinguishing Systems | $200 per system | Central Valley Fire District Fee Schedule — covers plan review, required inspections, and acceptance testing |
| Installation of Fire Pumps and Related Equipment | $100 per pump unit | Central Valley Fire District Fee Schedule — covers plan review, required inspections, and acceptance testing |
| Re-Inspection for Failed Final Inspection/Acceptance Testing | $100 | Central Valley Fire District Fee Schedule |
| Operational Permit (hazardous occupancies/operations per International Fire Code) | $50 | Central Valley Fire District Fee Schedule |
Change of Use / Change of Occupancy Permit
VerifiedBelgrade has no standalone 'change of use' or 'certificate of occupancy' permit product. Under Belgrade City Code 10-6-14, no land use may be established or changed within city limits without a permit issued by the Community Development Department; occupancy and use changes are processed as a standard Building Permit through the Cityworks Portal, reviewed against the 2021 IBC and (for existing buildings) the 2021 IEBC. A Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the Building Department once construction, inspections, and Public Works' Site Improvements Verification are complete.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- Belgrade City Code 10-6-14.A: 'No buildings or other structures shall be erected, moved, added to, or structurally altered, and no land use shall be established or changed in use, within city limits... without a permit therefore, issued by the Community Development Department'
- Occupancy/use changes are submitted as a standard Building Permit application through the Cityworks Portal (cityworks.belgrademt.gov/publicaccess/login) — there is no separate change-of-use or certificate-of-occupancy application form published by the City
- The City's Commercial/Multi-Family Document Submittal Checklist explicitly lists 'Interior alteration with an occupancy change' among the project types that require plans prepared, signed, and stamped by a Montana-licensed architect or engineer
- Reviewed against the 2021 International Building Code and, for existing buildings changing occupancy classification, the 2021 International Existing Building Code, as adopted by City of Belgrade
- Public Works' Site Improvements Verification must be completed prior to Certificate of Occupancy issuance, per the City's Master Fee Schedule
- Belgrade City Code 10-6-14.B: the Building Official must approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove a complete building-permit application within ninety (90) days of receipt; construction work must commence within 180 days of permit issuance
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the Cityworks Portal; used for occupancy/use changes since no separate change-of-use form is published
- OptionalCommercial/Multi-Family Checklist SubmittalRequired where the occupancy change involves interior alteration; must be stamped by a Montana-licensed architect or engineer per the City's checklist
- RequiredSite Improvements Verification Sign-OffPublic Works confirmation that required site improvements are complete, required before the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit (if construction/alteration accompanies the occupancy change) | Valuation x 0.0076 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, BUILDING CODE table |
| Plan Review (if construction/alteration accompanies the occupancy change) | Valuation x 0.0024 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, BUILDING CODE table |
| Site Improvements Verification — Single-Family Residential and Multi-Family (fewer than 6 units) | $120 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Public Works/Engineering Inspection table; completed prior to Certificate of Occupancy issuance |
| Site Improvements Verification — Multi-Family (6-20 units) | $175 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Public Works/Engineering Inspection table |
| Site Improvements Verification — Multi-Family (21-50 units) | $295 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Public Works/Engineering Inspection table |
| Site Improvements Verification — Multi-Family (51+ units) | $350 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Public Works/Engineering Inspection table |
| Site Improvements Verification — Commercial Site (1 acre or less) | $175 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Public Works/Engineering Inspection table |
| Site Improvements Verification — Commercial Site (1-5 acres) | $235 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Public Works/Engineering Inspection table |
| Site Improvements Verification — Commercial Site (per acre beyond 5 acres) | $175 | City of Belgrade Master Fee Schedule, Public Works/Engineering Inspection table |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-03.
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Belgrade building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.