Frequently Asked Questions

You will need to apply for a Public Work's Utility Connection Water permit, for a water repair. 

Apply for a Public Work's Utility Connection Sewer permit.

Excavation, sewer, water, storm, and ROW construction permits are issued only to a licensed and bonded contractor. Information on obtaining a City of Missoula business license is available from  Community Planning, Development, and Innovation Department. An expired business license, certificate of liability insurance, bonding document or professional certifications can cause delay in issuance of permit.

In addition to information provided on the permit application, a certified ACI Flatwork Finisher is required for all types of permit records where concrete work is being done in the ROW. Concrete work on private property does not require an ACI.

You need a Fence Permit to install a fence. 

Yes – You need a permit to construct any New Fence or any time you are repairing or replacing twenty-five (25’) feet or more of an existing fence.

Four (4’) feet

Six (6’) feet

Yes – wildlife fences are to protect backyard ‘Garden’ planting areas only, NOT the entire yard or property, for specifics please see Missoula Municipal Code (MMC) Section 12.30.070.C.

No, not on or in Residential Areas –only permitted on Commercial / Industrial or Agricultural properties may have barbed wire fences.

No, not on or in Residential Areas – electric fences only permitted on Commercial / Industrial or Agricultural properties.

Yes –  an investigation fee (amount is equal to the Fence Permit fee) for work without an approved Fence Permit AND a fine of up to five hundred ($500.00) dollars may be assessed.

A “Living Fence” alternative to a ‘built’ fence is a hedge; hedges can include Arborvitae, Boxwood, Lilac, Yew and more.

• hedges only need water, no painting or staining required !
• hedges have NO 4’ or 6’ height limit, they can grow to 8’, 10’, 12’ or more !!
  • tall hedges are also great ‘fences’ (barriers) for keeping deer out of your yard !
• hedges also absorb sound and block road / street noise, making them quieter than a hard surface fence !
• hedges are natural, attracting birds – providing refuge and nesting opportunities !!
  • flowering hedges can also attract butterflies, dragonflies and other pollinators !
• another important feature:  NO FENCE PERMIT REQUIRED !!