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

Sign Limitations

Outdoor advertising signs are not prohibited, but there are specific limitations such as where they may be located, how close they can be to other permitted signs, how large they can be, and how they must be maintained.

Signs may be placed in areas that are zoned for commercial and industrial use or in unzoned areas where commercial or industrial activities are located. It's our responsibility to determine if those areas qualify for the placement of signs.
Permitted signs must be at least 500 feet apart along interstate highways and 300 feet apart along primary highways. Outside of incorporated cities and towns they cannot be closer than 500 feet from a public park or public forest boundary. Also, they must be at least 500 feet from highway rest areas or from an interstate highway interchange
Signs may vary in size but cannot be larger than 672 square feet in area. (A sign that is 48 feet long and 14 feet high is 672 square feet.) The sign cannot be more than 48 feet long and no higher than 30 feet above the surface of the roadway.
In addition, there are several other regulations that may apply. Before applying for a sign permit, you should discuss your plans with an OAC contact.