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Montana committee hears clash over bill to declare short‑term rentals 'residential'
Summary
Supporters told the Senate Local Government Committee SB 336 would clarify that most short‑term rentals are residential and protect longstanding owners; opponents warned it could undercut local zoning, weaken safety inspections and worsen housing supply. The sponsor said he will work on amendments.
The Senate Local Government Committee on Wednesday heard hours of testimony on Senate Bill 336, which would define short‑term rentals (STRs) as a residential use unless a local government or covenant expressly prohibits them and would grandfather existing rentals.
Senator Greg Hertz, sponsor of SB 336, told the committee the bill is intended to resolve legal uncertainty after recent court rulings and to protect Montanans who rely on rental income. “If we don’t [define them], the courts are gonna make definitions for us,” he said, arguing the measure would preserve owners’ ability to rent portions of primary residences and nearby accessory units.
Proponents — a mix of attorneys, property owners and industry groups — said the bill offers needed clarity. Attorney Stephanie Baucus cited recent Montana Supreme Court decisions and said the law is “in…
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