🦌 Montana Eviction Notice Laws
Complete Landlord Guide to Montana Eviction Requirements
📋 Updated for • MCA Title 70Last reviewed: January
Montana has a 3-day notice for non-payment and efficient unlawful detainer procedures. The Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act provides clear rules for both parties. This guide covers requirements under MCA Title 70, Chapter 24.
📑 Table of Contents
📝 Montana Eviction Notice Types
3-Day Notice to Pay or Quit
MCA § 70-24-422
For non-payment of rent, Montana requires a 3-day notice to pay or vacate.
Notice Requirements:
- ✅ Must be in writing
- ✅ Must specify the amount of rent due
- ✅ Must give tenant 3 days to pay or vacate
- ✅ Can be served personally or by posting and mailing
14-Day Notice (Lease Violation)
MCA § 70-24-422
For material lease violations, Montana requires a 14-day notice with an opportunity to cure.
📄 Get Free Lease Violation Notice30-Day Notice (Month-to-Month)
MCA § 70-24-441
To terminate a month-to-month tenancy, Montana requires 30 days’ written notice.
📄 Get Free 30-Day Notice Form⚖️ Montana Unlawful Detainer Process
Montana evictions are filed as “Unlawful Detainer” actions in Justice Court or District Court.
Serve Notice
Serve the appropriate notice and wait for the notice period to expire.
File Complaint
File an unlawful detainer complaint in court. Filing fees are typically $30-$100.
Service and Hearing
Tenant must be served. Hearing typically within 10-20 days of filing.
Judgment and Writ
If you win, request a Writ of Possession. Sheriff executes eviction.
Montana prohibits self-help evictions. Only law enforcement can physically remove a tenant after a court order.
⏱️ Montana Eviction Timeline
| Stage | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 📝 Notice period | 3-30 days | 3 days for non-payment |
| ⚖️ Court hearing | 10-20 days | From filing |
| 🚔 Writ execution | 5-10 days | After judgment |
Total Timeline: Montana evictions typically take 3-5 weeks for uncontested cases.
💰 Montana Security Deposit Rules
- Maximum Amount: No statutory limit
- Return Timeline: 30 days (10 days if tenant requests inspection)
- Itemized Statement: Required if deductions made
❓ Montana Eviction FAQ
🔍 Avoid Evictions with Better Tenant Screening
Comprehensive tenant screening helps prevent costly evictions.
📚 Related Montana Resources
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Montana eviction laws under MCA Title 70. Consult a qualified Montana attorney before proceeding.
