Event Planning Permit Requirements in Billings, MT

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if operating as a business entity (LLC or corporation) or if you have employees. Free from the IRS. You will need an EIN to open a business bank account and sign vendor contracts professionally.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Montana Business Registration

   Event planning businesses structured as an LLC, corporation, or partnership must register with the Montana Secretary of State (online via sosmt.gov). Sole proprietors operating under a business name file an assumed business name registration with the Secretary of State. An LLC provides personal liability protection, especially important when coordinating large events.

   Official government source

   $35 LLC Articles of Organization (online); $20 assumed business name·1–7 business days (online)

   $35 LLC Articles of Organization (online); $20 assumed business name

   1–7 business days (online)

1. Billings General Business License

   Event planning businesses operating in Billings must obtain a general business license from the city. The application requires your business entity information, primary business address, and description of services. If you work primarily from home coordinating events elsewhere, a home occupation permit may also be required. Renewed annually.

   Official government source

   Varies by business classification (annual business-license tax). The city does not publish its fee schedule online — contact City of Billings Finance, 406-657-8433, for current amounts.·1–2 weeks

   Varies by business classification (annual business-license tax). The city does not publish its fee schedule online — contact City of Billings Finance, 406-657-8433, for current amounts.

   1–2 weeks

2. Billings Special Event Permit (for events in public spaces)

   When coordinating events that use Billings public parks, streets, plazas, or other public venues, a Special Event Permit is required from the city. As the event planner, you may be responsible for obtaining this permit on behalf of your client. Permit requirements typically include event details, expected attendance, proof of general liability insurance ($1M minimum), and sometimes a site plan or traffic management plan.

   Official government source

   Varies by event size and venue — see the Billings Parks & Recreation policies and permits page or contact the department for the current special-use fee schedule and insurance requirements·2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

   Varies by event size and venue — see the Billings Parks & Recreation policies and permits page or contact the department for the current special-use fee schedule and insurance requirements

   2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

3. Yellowstone County Temporary Use / Special Event Permit (if applicable)

   Large outdoor events on private property or on land in the county zoning jurisdiction may require a Temporary Use Permit reviewed by the joint Billings City/County Planning Division (which serves both the city and Yellowstone County's zoning area). Requirements typically include a site plan and sanitation provisions. Contact the Planning Division (406-657-8247) to confirm whether your event needs a permit.

   Official government source

   Varies — contact the City/County Planning Division for current temporary-use permit fees·2–4 weeks

   Varies — contact the City/County Planning Division for current temporary-use permit fees

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

• Billings Business Licensing
• Montana Secretary of State — Business Registration
• IRS EIN Application

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