Event Planning Permit Requirements in Great Falls, 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. Great Falls General Business License

   An event planning business with a commercial location in Great Falls needs a Business License (Safety Inspection Certificate) processed by Great Falls Fire Rescue; the fee is based on the premises' square footage. Home-based event planners instead obtain a Home Occupation Certificate from Planning & Community Development, and businesses based outside city limits need a Non-Resident Vendor Certificate.

   Official government source

   Commercial location: $300 new / $80 renewal (up to 2,000 sq ft; larger premises up to $895 new). Home-based: Home Occupation Certificate for a nominal fee.·1–2 weeks

   Commercial location: $300 new / $80 renewal (up to 2,000 sq ft; larger premises up to $895 new). Home-based: Home Occupation Certificate for a nominal fee.

   1–2 weeks

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

   Events using Great Falls parks, streets, or other public property require a special event permit from the city. Applications for temporary closure of park land must be submitted to the Park and Recreation Director at least 14 days before the event; parades require a Parade Request Application at least 4 weeks ahead (Park and Recreation, 406-771-1265). Insurance and other requirements depend on the event.

   Official government source

   Varies by event — contact Great Falls Park and Recreation (406-771-1265) for current permit fees and insurance requirements·2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

   Varies by event — contact Great Falls Park and Recreation (406-771-1265) for current permit fees and insurance requirements

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

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

   Large outdoor events on unincorporated Cascade County land may be subject to county requirements (zoning, sanitation for large gatherings). Contact Cascade County Planning to confirm whether your event needs a permit — a standing county special-event permit program could not be verified.

   Official government source

   Unverified — contact Cascade County Planning for any applicable fees·2–4 weeks

   Unverified — contact Cascade County Planning for any applicable fees

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

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

Related Guides