Housing

SB 266 requires Montana cities with populations over 5,000 to allow triplexes (three-unit homes) and fourplexes (four-unit homes) in areas where single-family homes are permitted, without imposing stricter rules than those for single-family properties. The bill mandates that zoning regulations for these multi-unit housing types cannot be more restrictive than those for single-family residences, including limits on parking (max one space per unit) and reduced requirements for lot sizes or building setbacks. It also encourages local governments to adopt additional housing strategies, such as eliminating or reducing off-street parking mandates and permitting accessory dwelling units. This bill directly affects cities meeting the population threshold, aiming to increase housing density options for residents.

SB 149 revises laws regarding emotional support animals (ESAs) in housing, affecting tenants with disabilities and landlords. The bill allows landlords to request specific documentation from a licensed health care practitioner if a tenant's need for an ESA is not readily apparent. This documentation must come from a practitioner with an established client-provider relationship who has conducted a clinical evaluation and identified the specific therapeutic support the animal provides. The bill also clarifies that ESA registration cards alone are not sufficient proof and holds tenants liable for damages caused by their emotional support animals.

SB 172 allows Montana resort communities and areas (designated under state law with populations under 3,500 that rely heavily on tourism) to use an additional 1% resort tax - previously restricted to infrastructure - specifically for workforce housing. The bill amends tax code sections to explicitly permit this new allocation, alongside existing infrastructure uses, for communities that qualify under the defined criteria. It does not create new taxes but changes how existing resort tax revenue may be spent, directly affecting designated resort districts and communities. The policy shift aims to address housing needs for local workers in tourism-dependent areas.