Residential Addition / Remodel / Alteration Permit in Helena, Montana
VerifiedRequired for additions, remodels, and structural alterations to existing one- and two-family dwellings within Helena city limits, using the same valuation-based fee schedule and 2021 IRC review standards as new construction.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
When you need this permit
- Room additions, structural modifications, and any alteration affecting the load path, egress, or fire-resistive construction of the dwelling
- Same universal Permit Application form as new construction, with project description identifying scope as addition/remodel/alteration
- Energy compliance documentation required where the addition affects conditioned floor area (IECC Climate Zone 6)
- Structural drawings and calculations required for any structural modification, stamped by a Montana-licensed engineer if the work is an 'irregular structure' under IRC R301.2.2.6
- Applicable setback (City Code 11-4-2) and lot coverage (City Code 11-4-1) zoning requirements must be met regardless of building permit applicability
Required documents
- Required
Permit Application (City of Helena Building Division)
Universal application form; select addition/remodel/alteration project scope
- Required
Residential One- and Two-Family Dwelling Plan Submittal Requirements
Same checklist used for new construction, applied to the addition/remodel scope
- Required
Site Plan
Lot lines, existing structures, proposed addition footprint, setback dimensions
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation-based (same Building Permit Fee Tabulation table as new construction) | Per Ordinance 3134 Appendix A valuation table — $22.00 minimum up to $4,955.00 for the first $1,000,000 plus $2.75 per additional $1,000 | Ordinance 3134; valuation is the greater of the stated contract cost of the addition/remodel or the applicable square-foot valuation |
| Plan Review (Plan Check) Fee | 65% of the Building Permit Fee | Per the City's November 2022 worked fee example |
Review timeline
~5–10 business days
Typical estimate — confirm current times with the Helena building department
Inspection process
- 1
Foundation (if new footings)
Before concrete pour, if the addition includes new foundation work
- 2
Framing
After framing complete, before insulation or wall cover
- 3
Final
Approved final inspection required before occupying the addition
Tips
- Helena uses the identical valuation-based fee table (Ordinance 3134) for additions/remodels as for new construction — there is no separate flat-rate schedule for typical remodel scopes.
- Setback and lot coverage zoning rules under City Code Title 11 apply to additions regardless of whether the addition itself requires a building permit.
Frequently asked questions
- Are addition/remodel fees calculated differently than new construction in Helena?
- No — the City of Helena uses the same Ordinance 3134 valuation-based Building Permit Fee Tabulation table for additions and remodels as for new construction, based on the greater of your stated contract value or the applicable square-foot valuation.
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-02.
- City of Helena — Community Development Department, Building Division — official building department
- City of Helena — Building Permit Types
- City of Helena — Building Permit Valuation Fee Calculation Example / Fee Packet (PDF, Ordinance 3134, Appendix A)
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 Helena building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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