Citizen Guide to the Municipal Codes of Polson

Information Key for Each Topic
Topic
Contact Agency/Department
Phone Number
Description of topic and relevant code number

MCA: Montana Code Annotated
PDC: Polson Development Code
PMC: Polson Municipal Code
UBC: Uniform Building Code
UFC: Uniform Fire Code

The City of Polson has prepared this quick reference site as a resource for its citizens. Please read through it and get acquainted with the material herein. If you see a problem in your daily activity, you may find it necessary to discuss the problem with the appropriate authority. However, in many circumstances issues can best be resolved amongst friends and neighbors. If it becomes necessary to contact authorities, please be prepared to provide information such as street address and/or name, license plate number and/or make of vehicle. Working together as a community we can continue to make Polson a wonderful place to live.


Notice: This information contained within this website is not a legally binding. Codes and ordinances are subject to change. This site is provided as a service and contains only a summary of selected city/county codes and ordinances. Please refer to the complete relevant code provisions if you need more information. The information contained herein was created and compiled by Tina Schlaile c/o the Polson Police Department.

Air Quality
Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes
883-2888
Some sources of air pollution are regulated, such as outdoor burning and industry. For more information contact the Air Quality Bureau (800) 225-6779. Outdoor burning generally requires a permit. See also: Outdoor Burning.

Animals & Fowl
Animal Control
883-8211
It is unlawful to keep any hogs, cattle, sheep, swine, goats, chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese or other domestic animals or fowl, excluding household pets, within the city limits. Horses, mules, and colts may not be ridden or herded upon city streets, alleys, parks or public grounds unless being moved from pasture or in organized parades. (PMC 8.02.010-020)

Animal Waste Removal
Animal Control
883-8211
Any person in control of an animal on either public or private property must remove excrement left by such animal. On private property, owners may not allow the animal’s excrement to accumulate to such a degree as to create a public nuisance or unsanitary condition. (Ordinance No. 587)

Bicycles
Police Department
883-8211
Bicycles must follow the same traffic laws as cars (61-8-602 MCA). Bike licenses are available for $1 at City Hall.

Building Permits
Building & Planning
883-8214
Building permits and zoning conformance permits are required before ground breaking or construction activity begins for a new structure, addition or remodel. A zoning conformance application is also required in advance of ground breaking and construction in order to pave a lot, change curb and gutter or add a sidewalk. (UBC 106.1 PMC 15.01.010)

Business Licenses
City Clerk
883-8203
All persons participating in Street Vending, Peddling or Outside Solicitation are required to have a City Solicitors License. Applications can be obtained at the City Clerks office and take 48 hours to process. License fees are $25 which includes investigation costs plus an addition $10 fee per person selling. The City of Polson requires no other business licensing. Certificate of Occupancy/Change of Use and fire codes Pre-Incident Plan applications are required for the occupation of a building for business use. These are available from the Building & Planning office and must be processed prior to public opening. Home occupations in residential zones shall meet criteria including floor area, parking, outdoor storage, employees and signage. (PMC 5.08)

Cross-Street Parking
Police Department
883-8211
Vehicles are not allowed to cross into the oncoming traffic lane and park on the opposite side of the road. (Ordinance No. 568)

Curfews for Juveniles
Police Department
883-8211
Minors aged under 16 years old may not be on, upon or frequenting the streets and alleys within the city limits between the hours of 9:30 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. For minors aged 16 an 17 years old the same restrictions apply during the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Exceptions apply to minors going to or returning from work or while accompanied by a parent or guardian. Curfew is in effect 365 days a year. (PMC 9.06.010)

Debris
Police Department
883-8211
It shall be the duty of the owner, agent, occupant or lessee of property to keep the premises free of litter, rubbish, garbage and unkempt foliage, including but not limited to weeds and uncut grass. (PMC 7.04.060)

Discharging of Firearms
Police Department
883-8211
It is unlawful for any person to shoot or discharge any pistol, rifle, air gun or other firearm within the city limits. (PMC 9.02-290)

Dog Ordinances
Animal Control
883-8211
Dogs and cats must have a city license and current rabies tags. Dogs may not be allowed to run at large and must be on a leash when off of the owner’s property. Owners are not allowed to keep nuisance dogs that frequently howl, bark or cause annoyance and disturb other persons. Owning more than three dogs over six months old requires obtaining a city commercial kennel license. (PMC 08.04.010-190)

Driving on Sidewalks
Police Department
883-8211
Vehicles cannot be driven on sidewalks. (PMC10.04.080)

Fences & Vision Triangles
Building & Planning
883-8214
Fence permits are required for all fences. Fences, vegetation or other visual obstructions shall be 30 inches or less in height when they occur within the vision triangles for an intersection or driveway. Tree branches shall be pruned to a height of 8 feet in a vision triangle. (PDC appendix E, 8e)

Fire Hazard Complaints
Fire Department 883-8220
The Fire Department responds to complaints about excessive combustible rubbish, fire lanes, accumulations of hazardous vegetation, storage of hazardous materials, strong odors and other dangerous conditions.

Fire Safety & Public Education
Fire Department
883-8220
The Fire Department provides safety programs to the public about home fire-safety inspections, wildland-urban home and property protection, use of fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, child car seat and carbon monoxide inspections.

Fireworks & Permits
Fire Department
883-8220
The sale and use of fireworks within the City of Polson is allowed. Fireworks can only be sold from June 24th – July 5th, and from December 29th – 31st. Permits are required for selling fireworks ($300) and for all public displays ($500). Display permits must be applied for in writing no sooner than 15 days in advance but the permit fee is refundable. Permits are also available online at www.polsonfire.org . (PMC 9.18)

Food Establishments
Environmental Health
883-7236
Selling or giving of any food items to the public that are processed or handled, excluding fresh produce, requires compliance with food safety regulations and may require a license. Non-profit organizations do not require a license but must be pre-approved by the office. For profit organizations must have a license which is currently $60 a year. (MCA 50-50-201)

Garbage
Police Department
883-8211
Garbage may not accumulate fire, health or safety hazard. Burning of garbage is not allowed. Non-containerized items which are visible to the public must be disposed of within 72 hours after their deposit. (PMC 7.04)

Golf Course: Fund Raising & Commercial Events
Polson Country Club
883-8230
To plan a fund raiser or commercial event at the Country Club, contact the Group and Tournament Coordinator as soon as possible. User fees and advance deposits will be applicable.

Golf Course: Concessions
Polson Country Club
883-8230
Concessions at the Polson Country Club are contracted with the City of Polson, and have the sole right to provide goods and services. All others are prohibited from the sale of goods and services on golf course premises.

Golf Course: Facility Use
Polson Country Club
883-8230
Tee times for the 18-hole course at the Country Club may be reserved up to two days in advance. The 9-hole course operates on a first come, first serve basis. Groups of 11 or more players may reserve tee times further in advance and are subject to an advance deposit. Use of the restaurant banquet facilities may be reserved with the food and beverage manager at 883-0259. A cleaning deposit will apply. User fees apply for all Country Club facility uses.

Golf Course: General Rules
Polson Country Club
883-8230
Polson Country Club is open to the public daily during daylight hours, weather permitting. All players must register at the golf shop prior to beginning play. Non-golfing children under the age of 12 must remain in a motorized golf cart for safety and liability reasons. A valid driver’s license is required to operate a motorized golf cart. Selling of goods and services by non-contracted individuals is prohibited. Bicycles, skateboard, roller-skating, jogging, non-golf related walking, metal spikes, person alcohol, strollers and pets (except those assisting special needs individuals) are also prohibited.

Health Department
Public Health Office
883-7288
The Lake County Public Health Office provides a variety of services to residents including information on maternal and child health, communicable diseases, family planning, HIV testing, immunization, life jacket and car seat inspections, and tobacco education.

Home-Based Business
Building & Planning
883-8214
Home occupations in residential zones shall meet criteria, which includes floor area, parking, outdoor storage, employees and signage. A zoning conformance application and a certificate of occupancy/change of use application needs to be completed. (PDC Appendix D)

Junked, Wrecked or Inoperable Motor Vehicles
Police Department
883-8211
Vehicles may not be parked or left standing on the right-of-way of public highway longer than 48 hours, or on a city street or state, county or city property longer than 5 days. The last-registered owner of the vehicle is responsible for the abandonment and is liable for costs incurred in removing the vehicle. (MCA 61-8-356)

Lakeshore Construction & Maintenance
Building & Planning
883-8214
Construction or maintenance within 20 feet of the Lakeshore requires an application, project review and permit. Fee is based on the value of the project. (MCA 75-7-201, Ordinance No. 551)

Landlord-Tenant Relationships
Justice Court
883-7260
Landlord-tenant relationships are governed by Montana state law. Individuals seeking to file civil suits are requested to contact attorneys for legal assistance. The court can provide papers to file law suits but cannot provide legal advice. Agencies that can provide some assistance are as follows: 1) MontPIRG (406) 243-2907 or (888) 345-7474; 2) Legal Services (406) 543-8343; and 3) Attorney Referral Service (406) 449-6577. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against in obtaining housing can contact Montana Fair Housing (406) 542-2611 or (800) 929-2611, or the Fair Housing Commission (800) 542-0532.

Lawn & Garden Sprinkling
Water & Sewer Department
883-8201
Sprinkling is allowed for even numbered homes on even days between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. or 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. for a maximum of 3 hours. Odd numbered homes water on odd days with the same time restrictions. Homes with automatic sprinkling systems are asked to water between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m. for a maximum of 3 hours. (Ordinance No. 575)

Library
City of Polson
883-8225
The City Library provides numerous services including free Internet access, audio and video cassettes, youth programs, community meeting room for up to 75 people, multimedia room and equipment, and an interlibrary loan program for items not found locally. Library hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. They can also be reached at polsoncl@polson.lib.mt.us .

Limitations on Backing
Police Department
883-8211
Drivers cannot back up unless such movement can be made without interfering with other traffic. (MCA 61-8-358)

Liquor Licenses
City Clerk
883-8203
Any business that serves alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine, must have both a state and city liquor license.

Littering
Police Department
883-8211
It is unlawful for anyone to litter on public or private property. (PMC 7.04.030)

Noise as a Nuisance
Building & Planning
883-8214
It is unlawful to make, create or maintain unnecessary loud noises within the City of Polson. The Polson Development Code lists maximum noise levels at 71 dBA in commercial and resort zones between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Maximum levels in residential zones are 60 dBA between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. and 50 dBA between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. These levels can be exceeded by temporary construction, maintenance activities and holiday celebrations. (PDC XVIII, W. 1)

Outdoor Burning
Fire Department
883-8220
A permit is required for all outdoor burning within city limits. Reservation burning permits are available through the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes Fire Division (406) 676-2550. Check with the Fire Department within the jurisdiction where the burn permit is needed for more details.
Open burning season runs from September 30th through December 1st and March 1st until April 30th. Call (800) 225-6779 during the fall to verify there are no burning bans due to valley air inversions. No outdoor burning is allowed from December through the end of February. From May 1st through September 30th, burn permits are required. Permits are free and provide information about burning safety.

Outdoor Storage
Building & Planning
883-8214
Outdoor storage shall not create a fire, health or safety hazard or constitute an attractive nuisance regardless of its location on a property. (PDC XVIII, W.6)

Overtaking School Buses
Police Department
883-8211
Drivers of vehicles, upon meeting or overtaking a school bus which has stopped and is either receiving or discharging students, must stop before reaching the bus when visual signals are activated. Drivers may proceed only after the visual signals are no longer activated. (MCA 61-8-351)

Parking for Certain Purposes
Police Department
883-8211
It is unlawful to park or stand any vehicle on any roadway for the purpose of displaying the vehicle for sale, vehicle repairs, or to display advertising. (MCA 61-12-101)

Parking on Main Street
Police Department
883-8211
It is unlawful to park or stand any vehicle on Main Street between Highway 93 and 5th Avenue on any Friday between the hours of 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. (Ordinance No. 583)

Parks: Alcohol
Parks Superintendent
883-8206
Alcoholic beverages are permitted within the exterior boundaries of city waterfront parks only. Glass beverage containers are not allowed within the confines of any city recreational or pier facilities. (PMC 9.14.030, Ordinance No. 588)

Parks: Commercial & Fund Raising Events
City Clerk
883-8203
Fund raising and commercial events in city parks require a written request, 30 days prior to the event, sent to the City Clerk’s Office at 106 1st Street East in Polson.

Parks: Concessions
City Clerk
883-8203
Concessionaires must have a current parks permit, necessary county health department approvals and workman’s compensation insurance. A vendor’s license does not include permission to sell in city parks where there is a permitted concessionaire. (PMC 14.02.030-040)

Parks: General Information
Park Superintendent
883-8206
Polson City parks are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. or dusk, whichever is earlier. All dogs must be on a leash. Open fires, amplified music charging for entry into parks or selling is not allowed without special permission from the city. Also prohibited are digging, firearms, fireworks, overnight camping, glass beverage containers, and motorized vehicles except in designated areas. There can be no devices producing sound at such volume to disturb public peace or create a public nuisance. (PMC 14.02, Ordinance No. 588)

Parks: Individual Information
Park Superintendents
883-8206
Boettcher – On Flathead Lake, includes picnic tables & shelters, swimming area, playground, restrooms & shower, concessions stand, volleyball court and horseshoe pits. Reservations can be made for either one of three covered group shelters. There is a minor fee to cover costs and reservations are by contacting the City Clerk at 883-8203.

City Docks – Open for fishing, boat launching and docking and trailer parking. Located next to Sacajewea Park.

Ducharme – On Highway 93 with an outstanding lake view. Includes picnic tables.

Mission Bay Park – Small park located in Mission Bay Development. Playground equipment is provided, no picnicking is allowed.

O’Malley Park – Consists of an American Legion baseball field, Little League baseball field, concession stand, basketball court, swings, horseshoe pits, restrooms, and picnic tables.

Pomajevich Park – Baseball field, children’s playground and restrooms.

Sports Complex (Kerr Dam Field) – Includes soccer fields, two softball fields, basketball court, children’s playground, picnic tables, shelter and restrooms.

Sacajewea Park – On Flathead Lake, includes picnic tables, benches and restrooms.

Riverside Park – On Flathead River, includes swimming area, boat launch ramp, children’s playground, picnic tables, one shelter, benches, volleyball court and restrooms.

Pedestrians
Police Department
883-8211
Drivers must yield right of way to pedestrians crossing a roadway within a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Pedestrians crossing a roadway other than at a crosswalk shall yield right-of-way to any approaching vehicles. When sidewalks are not provided, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the road or shoulder facing traffic, which may approach from the opposite direction. (MCA 61-8-506, PMC 10-04.090)

Propane Tanks
Fire Department
883-8220
The placement of propane tanks, new and change out, is permitted in the city. Obtain permits at www.polsonfire.org  (UFC Article 82)

Public Possession of Alcohol
Police Department
883-8211
Displaying or drinking from open cans, bottles or glasses of beer or alcoholic beverages within the city limits is prohibited. Exemptions are within exterior boundaries of the city parks and golf course. (PMC 9.14.010)

Sidewalks: Repair or Installation
Building & Planning
883-8214
Owners and/or tenants are responsible for repair or replacement of hazardous or deteriorated sidewalks in front of and/or adjacent to their property. This only applies to sidewalks required on public right-of-ways. Full costs of repair, replacement and/or installation are assessed to the owner. (PMC 12.02.120)

Sidewalks: Snow Removal
City Clerk
883-8203
Owners and/or tenants of any property adjoining public sidewalks within the city are required to remove snow, slush, ice and debris from their sidewalk. If removal is not completed, the city may remove the snow and ice and charge the property owner. (PMC 12.10)

Signs
Building & Planning
883-8214
Most signs and banners used as signs require permits. More information and applications are available at the Building and Planning Office. (PDC, appendix B)

Snowmobile Operation
Police Department
883-8211
It is unlawful to operate any snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle upon any street, avenue, alley, park, golf course or public way within the city. (PMC 10.04.080, Ordinance No. 330)

Special Events
City Clerk
883-8203
Any special event or parade requiring closure of streets needs to have City Council approval. Council meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Mondays of every month. To be included on the next Council agenda please contact the City Clerk by noon on Wednesdays.

Speed Regulations
Police Department
883-8211
Unless otherwise posted, speed limits within the city limits are 25 miles per hour. (PMC 10.04.040, MCA 61-8-303)

Unattended Parked Vehicles
Police Department
883-8211
Vehicles left unattended or apparently abandoned upon public streets for a period exceeding 5 days are subject to removal and impoundment by the police department. (PMC 10.04.140)

Unattended Vehicles
Police Department
883-8211
It is unlawful for any person driving or having charge of a motor vehicle to allow it to stand on any street unattended without first stopping the engine, setting the brake and turning the wheels to the curb to prevent the vehicle from rolling onto the roadway. (PMC 10.04.080, MCA 61-8-357)

Utilities: Billing
Water & Sewer Department
883-8201
Residential and commercial water/sewer users are currently billed based on usage, with a minimum fee for usage up to 5,000 gallons. Increases occur after every additional 1,000 gallons of usage. Minimum monthly billing amounts are $13.20/water and $15.00/sewer. Billing statements run from the 15th of the month until the 15th of the next month.

Utilities: Septic Systems
Water & Sewer Department
883-8201
Failed septic systems inside the City limits are required to connect to the city sewer. New septic systems are not allowed. Homes adjacent to city property could be required to annex into the city and connect to city sewer. Homes within the Wellhead Protection Area (See Polson Master Plan) may also be required to connect to the city sewer. (PMC 4.06.020)

Utilities: Sewer Connections
Water & Sewer Department
883-8201
City sewer connections require a hookup fee to be paid before scheduling of connection. Prior notice of 48 hours is preferred for crews to do tap if necessary.

Vegetation: Hazardous
Fire Department
883-8220
Vegetation more than 24 inches high must be cit by the property owner. If after notification, the vegetation is still uncut, the City may perform the work and charge the costs to the property owner at a minimum fee of $275 per cut. (See also: Weeds)

Water Quality: Aquifer
Water & Sewer Department
883-8201
Uses that present a high risk of ground water contamination are prohibited within the Wellhead Protection Zones. (See Polson Master Plan)

Weeds
Fire Department
883-8220
Weeds are not allowed to grow above a height considered to be a fire hazard. A certified notice will be sent by the Fire Department, requesting that the weeds be taken care of. If no action is taken within 15 days, the City will cut and dispose of the fire hazard and charge the property owner. (PMC 7.06)