Residential Addition / Remodel / Alteration Permit in Missoula, Montana
VerifiedRequired for room additions, structural alterations, and remodels affecting structural, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems on existing single-family and duplex dwellings within Missoula city limits.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
When you need this permit
- Apply online through Accela Citizen Access
- Interior remodels involving wall changes or fixture relocation require a building permit
- Storage buildings/garages exceeding 200 sq ft require a permit
- Retaining walls over 4 feet tall require a permit
- Plans must comply with the 2021 IRC/IBC and 2021 IECC as amended by the State of Montana
Required documents
- Required
Building Permit Application (Accela Citizen Access)
Submitted online with a detailed project description
- Required
Construction Drawings
Plans showing scope of work, dimensions, and structural details relevant to the addition/remodel
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation-based (same table as new construction) | $36 minimum (valuation $1–$500) up to $1,582 for the first $100,000 plus $9.94 per additional $1,000; see full valuation table | City of Missoula FY26 Building Permit and Plan Review Fee Schedule (Resolution 8887, effective Jan 1–Dec 31, 2026) |
| Plan Review Fee | 30% of the Building Permit Fee | City of Missoula FY26 Building Permit and Plan Review Fee Schedule |
Review timeline
2–84 business days
Missoula’s published plan-review target
Inspection process
- 1
Framing/Structural
After framing complete, before wall cover
- 2
MEP Rough-In
Mechanical, electrical, plumbing rough-ins before wall cover; separate trade permits required
- 3
Final
Required on all permits
Tips
- Interior remodels not touching walls or fixtures (paint, flooring, cabinetry, countertops) do not require a permit per the City's Building Permit FAQ.
- Window replacements matching the original size and type do not require a permit.
- Free-standing decks 30 inches or less above grade, under 200 sq ft, without a roof, and not serving as primary egress do not require a permit — any deck exceeding these thresholds does.
- Storage sheds under 200 sq ft do not require a permit; sheds/garages at or over 200 sq ft do.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit for a deck in Missoula?
- Only if the deck does not meet ALL of: completely free-standing, 30 inches or less above grade, no roof/arbor, and not serving as required egress. Decks failing any of these criteria require a building permit.
- Do I need a permit to finish my basement in Missoula?
- Yes, if the work involves wall changes, fixture relocation, or new mechanical/electrical/plumbing work. Apply online through Accela Citizen Access.
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-02.
- City of Missoula Development Services — Building Division (Community Planning, Development & Innovation) — official building department
- FAQs — Building Permit | City of Missoula
- FY26 Building Permit and Plan Review Fee Schedule PDF
- Building Division | City of Missoula
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 Missoula building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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