Event Planning Permit Requirements in Missoula, 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. Missoula General Business License

   Event planning businesses operating in Missoula 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

   $60 per FTE for a commercial location (minimum $240) or $40/FTE home-based (minimum $160); renewal $27/FTE (minimum $108) — CY2026 fee schedule·1–2 weeks

   $60 per FTE for a commercial location (minimum $240) or $40/FTE home-based (minimum $160); renewal $27/FTE (minimum $108) — CY2026 fee schedule

   1–2 weeks

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

   When coordinating events that use Missoula 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 venue and event size — see the Missoula Parks & Recreation park reservation/special-event process or contact Parks & Recreation for current fees and insurance requirements·2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

   Varies by venue and event size — see the Missoula Parks & Recreation park reservation/special-event process or contact Parks & Recreation for current fees and insurance requirements

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

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

   Events on Missoula County park or trail land (outside city limits) require a special-event permit from Missoula County Parks, Trails & Recreation. Large events on private county land may trigger zoning or health requirements (sanitation for large gatherings) — confirm with Missoula County. City permits do not cover county venues.

   Official government source

   Varies — contact Missoula County Parks, Trails & Recreation for current special-event fees·2–4 weeks

   Varies — contact Missoula County Parks, Trails & Recreation for current special-event fees

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

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

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