Montana Department of Transportation

OUTDOOR ADVERTISING
Overview
Program Details
OAC Contacts

ADVERTISING CONTROL
Control Area Definition
Fee Schedule
Forms | Manual
Sign Exemptions
Sign Limitations
Sign Permits
Rules/Regulations

PROGRAMS
Specific Information Signs (LOGO)
Tourist-Orientated Signs (TODS)

HELPFUL LINKS
Montana Motorist Sign Group - LOGO/TODS

Outdoor Advertising - Permits

Application forms and fee schedules are available from the Right-of-Way Section OAC Contacts. The application fee is calculated by the size of the proposed sign face. If the sign has multiple faces, the fee is determined by the square footage of the largest single sign face. An OAC contact can calculate the exact costs for you. If the application is approved, a permit will be issued and a fee assessed. After the initial three-year period, the permit may be renewed every three years thereafter without completing a new application. We'll notify the owner when the renewal fee is due.

Before the permit can be issued, we'll carefully consider the application and inspect the proposed location to be sure the sign will meet all requirements. If the sign is located on land owned by someone other than the sign owner, the landowner's written permission is required. Also, some cities, towns and counties have local sign ordinances or regulations, so you'll need to get written approval from the local zoning authority before we can review the permit. Please allow plenty of time to complete this process.

Permits are not required for signs advertising the sale or lease of the property on which they're located or for a sign located on the property near the activity it's advertising.

For example, motel, restaurant, service station or store signs don't need permits. These are called "on-premise" signs. It's important that you check for local government ordinances or regulations that may apply to on-premise signs. If you believe your sign is on-premise, you should check with a right-of-way agent for confirmation.

Unpermitted signs are unlawful and must be removed. We'll notify the sign owner and landowner to give them ample time to remove the sign. If the sign isn't removed, we will remove it, and the costs will be assessed to the sign owners and landowners.

Again, you will need to visit with a right-of-way agent to get an application for a sign permit. There are numerous details that must be considered and approved before issuing a permit that aren't illustrated in this brochure.

Permit requirements include:

Non-refundable application fee

Sign size and spacing

Landowner and local government approval