Public Comment Sought on Update to County Community Decay Ordinance

Published on January 08, 2026

Helena, MT — Lewis and Clark County is seeking public comment on an update to the Community Decay Ordinance. The update will align the current ordinance with HB 742 which was enacted by the Montana Legislature in 2025. The 30-day public comment period will be open through Saturday, February 7, 2026.

Under HB 742, complaints must be received by at least three property owners located within one-fourth of a mile from the property for which the complaint is filed before an officer of the county may conduct a site inspection unless the Board of County Commissioners determines there is a public health issue. The Lewis and Clark County Commission approved the first reading of the updates to the ordinance at their public meeting held on Thursday, January 8, 2026.

Lewis and Clark County Commissioners will hear a second and final reading of the proposed changes and a summary of public comments during a public meeting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, in the Commission Chamber of the City-County Building located at 316 N. Park Avenue, Helena, MT.

The public can submit comments by email or phone to Beth Norberg at bnorberg@lccountymt.gov or 406-447-8385. Comments will be accepted through Saturday, February 7, 2026.