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1. Who is my County Commissioner, and what is a Commissioner District?

Stillwater County is split into three geographic commissioner districts, based on population and area. Each Commissioner is elected to a six-year term.  A person may not be elected as a member of a board of county commissioners unless the person has resided in the county and the district for at least 2 years immediately preceding the general election, MCA 7-4-2104(2). The Commissioners are partisan elected officials, and candidates are nominated in a primary election.  All voters in the County vote in the primary and general elections to select the Commissioner who will ultimately serve.

View the District Map (PDF).

Steve Riveland is the Commissioner for District 1. Jeff Ruffatto is the District 2 Commissioner. Tyrel Hamilton is the District 3 Commissioner and currently the Presiding Officer of the Board also known as the Chair.

2. What is the Board of County Commissioners Meeting schedule?

The Commissioner’s Regular Business Agenda Meeting is each Tuesday at 9 am (unless otherwise noted).  The remainder of the week is spent with individual committee assignments and constituent appointments.

3. Are Board Meetings open to the public?

All regularly scheduled Board meetings are open to the public and media, with the exception of the following:  Pursuant to 2-3-203, MCA, the presiding officer of any meeting may close the meeting during the time the discussion relates to a matter of individual privacy, and then if and only if the presiding officer determines that the demands of individual privacy clearly exceed the merits of public disclosure. These meetings are not open to the public or the media.

4. What is a Regular Business Agenda Meeting vs. Commission Discussion (work session)?

Regular Business Agenda Meetings are the time the Board takes action on items published on their agenda.  

Commission Discussions (work sessions) are held prior to the Board’s regular business agenda meetings where the  Commissioners meet with their constituents or department heads according to the schedule above. The purpose of these meetings is to provide the Board an opportunity to conduct informal communications with each other,  review documents, and identify questions they may have for staff before taking action on the agenda items in their regular business meeting. No action will be taken at these discussion sessions.

5. How do you find out what’s coming up on the agenda?

Each Thursday before 5 pm, the Regular Business Agenda is posted on the bulletin boards on the first and the second floor of the Stillwater County Courthouse.  Also a posting is made on the West Annex bulletin board.  The agenda may also be available online for your convenience. Printed copies can be obtained in the Clerk and Recorders Office. 

6. How do you have a voice in Commissioner Board meetings?

If you wish to address the Commission on an Agenda item, you will be given an opportunity to comment or ask questions before action is taken. If you wish to address the Commission on a non-agenda item, the Commissioner Presiding Officer (Chair) will allow you to briefly address the Board during the “Public Comments” portion of the meeting. Public Comments are scheduled at the beginning portion of the Board Meeting Agenda.

7. How do I make an appointment to meet with my County Commissioner?

Simply call the Commissioner’s Office at 406-322-8010 and ask to schedule a mutually convenient time for you to meet with your Commissioner. 

8. What about Public Hearings?

Public hearings are held by the Board of County Commissioners to give citizens the opportunity to comment on certain current issues involving the county. All public hearings are advertised in the Stillwater County News and placed on the agenda.

9. How can you serve on a Board or Committee?

Persons interested in serving on the Compensation Board, Planning Board, Tax Appeal Board, Health Board, or any Board appointed by the Commissioners, should complete an Application Form (PDF) and submit it to the Commissioners Office.

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1. What do I need to obtain a marriage license?

• $53.00 in cash
• some form of state or federally-issued photo identification
• proof of termination of previous marriage (final decree or death certificate)
• both parties need to appear
• proof of premarital testing for rubella immunity or signed waiver (we have waiver forms in District Court)

2. How do I file for a divorce?

• Parties must file a petition for dissolution and the fee is $200.00 in cash
• Most dissolution packets and parenting plan packets are located in our office.  However, please call in advance to make sure we have the appropriate forms on hand.  Our forms are provided by the Self-Help Law Center in Billings, Montana.  Parties may also contact the Self Help Law Center directly for the appropriate forms at 406-969-3531 or online at Self Help Forms.

3. I cannot afford to pay for an attorney–how do I get an attorney to represent me?

• For civil cases, contact Montana Legal Services Association at 1-800-666-6899 or online at Montana Law Help.
• For criminal cases, contact the Region 9 Public Defender’s Office at 406-256-6861 or online at Montana State Public Defender.

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1. Can the County Attorney advise me of my rights, legal options, interpret statute for me, or assist me, as a private citizen or entity of the County?

No, the County Attorney’s duties are outlined and limited by the Montana Statutes, and she cannot advise private parties.

2. Can the County Attorney advise how to practice law or proper procedure for filing lawsuits or what legal avenues are available to me?

No, the County Attorney cannot advise private parties in any legal capacity whatsoever.  It is a commonly preconceived myth that the “County Attorney” is the attorney for all citizens of the county. This is not the case. The County Attorney is the attorney for Stillwater County, as a whole, representing the interests of the County, but cannot represent the individuals within the County. To do so would put the County Attorney in situations of conflict, and is not allowed by law.

3. Where can I go then, as a private citizen, for legal help, guidance, or advice?

You may inquire upon a private attorney. Many will give a free initial consultation. Another option is to contact Montana Legal Services Association at 800-666-6899. Additionally, the County Attorney cannot recommend an attorney for you.

4. What do I do if I get a “No Proof of Insurance” ticket if I have insurance?

View the information sheet for a violation of “No Proof Of Insurance (PDF)”.

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1. Are there business licenses in Stillwater County or the City of Columbus?

No, but please check to see if your profession or service requires a Professional License issued by the State of Montana.

2. Are there grants available for my business?

Possibly.  It all depends on what you intend to use the funds for.  Generally, with any business grants, you are required to be in business for at least 1 year.   Microgrants (+/- $1K) for businesses are very hard to come by.  State and Federal grants that may be available tend to cater to businesses looking to make major investments between $25K to over $1M+.   For more information please contact our office.

3. What business/organizational assistance and resources are available?

Stillwater Economic Development offers business consulting, and resource connections to State and Federal programs which include but aren’t limited to the Business Expansion And Retention (BEAR) Program,  Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Small Business Administration (SBA), Beartooth Resource Conservation and Development, and the Department of Labor and Industry – Billings Job Service. We are resource directors and welcome your inquiries.

4. We’re interested in moving our business and our family to Stillwater. What is the economy like in Stillwater?

Download Stillwater County Overall Economic Department Plan (PDF) which was updated in 2015. This Plan details the County’s demographics and its growth over the years but it’s also a strategic planning document with goals and objectives for Stillwater County, its community, and economic development plans for the future.

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1. How do I get a Septic Permit?

View the Septic Permitting Process (PDF).

2. Does this home have a septic system permit and where is the system located?

Please contact this office. Septic permits are generally filed by the original owner’s name of the house/lot that installed the septic. If there has been more than one owner of the house/lot, please have that information ready when you call our office.

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1. Where do I apply for public assistance?

If you need information regarding welfare, food stamps, energy assistance, etc.

You need to contact the Office of Public Assistance, located at
PO Box 202925
Helena MT 59620-2925
Phone number 1-888-706-1535

2. Where do I go to pay my traffic fine?

Justice Court

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1. When do I need a permit?

A burn permit is needed year-round if you intend on conducting a slash-burning fire, land-clearing fire, debris-burning fire, or any other type of open fire greater than 48 inches in diameter.

2. Fire Warden, does my fire have to be out by dark?

Daylight Hours Only.

No fire shall be set between sunset and sunrise. If it appears that a fire will continue to burn after sunset, the permit holder or designee must notify the Stillwater County Open Burning Number.

3. Can I burn my garbage?

Natural vegetation is the ONLY thing that your burn permit allows you to burn. You are not allowed to burn prohibited materials as outlined in the Montana Department of Environmental Quality’s air quality regulations found at ARM 17.8.604. This includes but is not limited to

• Buildings
• Asphalt shingles
• Campers
• Garbage
• Railroad ties
• Plastic products
• Paper products
• Cardboard
• Manure
• Dead animals, etc.

4. Are there times when Stillwater County can close the burn permit system?

Yes, the Stillwater County Fire Warden may close the burn permit system to effectuate a burn ban at any time that the National Weather Service (NOAA) issues a critical Fire Hazard Warning, Red Flag Warning, High Winds, Hazardous weather outlook, Fire Danger Statement, or Fire Weather Watch in accordance with State 1 or 2 Fire Restrictions.

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

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2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

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3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

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5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

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6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

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1. What agency handles Minor In Possession (MIP) offenses?

You will need to contact Columbus City Court and Justice Court.

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1. Do you offer computer classes?

Yes! Please contact us for a one-on-one instruction session!

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1. What is Extension and what can Extension offer? What do Extension Agents do?

Visit MSU Extension’s official website for all the answers you are looking for.

2. What is 4-H and how do I enroll?

The 4-H and Youth Development program consists of school enrichment programs and youth-related community boards and events. 4-H in our county remains close to 200 youth members and 50 volunteer leaders in 12 organized clubs. There is a wide variety of projects available to members. Whether you are interested in livestock, foods, crafting, sewing, building, shooting sports, or the other 50+ projects and activities, 4-H has something for you! If you are not a member already, we would love to make you part of our 4-H family in Stillwater County. Learn about enrolling in 4-H and the cost involved with enrollment.

3. What 4-H Clubs are available in Stillwater?

View Stillwater’s Clubs.

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1. Is there zoning in Stillwater County?

The County recently adopted new Development Regulations and a new Development Permitting Process. View Stillwater County Final Zoning and Development Regulations (PDF).

2. What do I need for a septic permit?

Septic information can be obtained by calling the Environmental Health Department at 406-322-8055

3. Are there any permits needed for development in Stillwater County?

A Conditional Use Permit (PDF) is required for all new multi-family, planned unit developments, and commercial or industrial development.  The Planning Office will then route the submitted form(s) to the internal permitting departments for comment and instructions to follow up if necessary with the County Sanitarian, Floodplain Administrator in Environmental Health, GIS/ Rural Addressing, and Road and Bridge Department.  Please contact the State Building Code Bureau for all other building questions (electrical, plumbing, snow loads, etc.) at 406-841-2056.

4. What is the Work Camp Plan Review Process in Stillwater County?

Work Camps are facilities that are for the exclusive use of the employees and the employee’s family members of the person or company that owns or operates the facilities. Please fill out the DPHHS Work Camp Review Plan (PDF). Please also submit a completed Conditional Use Permit (PDF) to the Planning Office. If the proposed facility will be serving other individuals, you must complete a plan review for trailer courts, campgrounds, hotels, motels, and/or boarding houses.

5. What are the stages to subdivide?

Please refer to the Stillwater County 2022 Subdivision Regulations (PDF).

6. What are the setbacks for Stillwater County?

There are no setback regulations in Stillwater County for residential properties however, it is always in the property owner’s best interest to provide a setback, even if only minimal, from the property line to any structure.  There is a minimum 10-foot setback for a Conditional Use Permit (PDF) for all new multi-family, planned unit developments, commercial or industrial development. View Stillwater County Final Zoning and Development Regulations (PDF).

7. I want to subdivide my property, how do I do that?

First, you’ll need to contact an engineer or surveyor. By contacting the Planning department you can request a list of consultants who typically do work in the area. Once you’ve contacted them you will need to develop a concept. Once a concept has been finalized, contact the Planning Office to schedule a pre-application meeting. At that time all details, forms applications, and processes will be identified based on the proposed concept.

8. Is a Certificate of Survey a subdivision?

No, typically COS’s are reviewed as exempt subdivisions. This means only staff review is required for filing.

9. What are family transfers, mortgage surveys, boundary relocations, and other types of surveys?

These are what are called exempt subdivisions. These require only staff review. There is a $200 review fee for all surveys submitted.

10. Are there permits needed to build on a lot that is already subdivided?

Please contact the necessary permitting offices in Stillwater County to see what permits are required:

• County Sanitarian and Floodplain Administrator in Environmental Health
• GIS/ Rural Addressing
• Road and Bridge Department

11. My subdivision has preliminary plat approval, can I sell lots?

No. Lots are not conveyable until a subdivision has reached Final Plat. In order to achieve Final Plat, all conditions of approval and improvements must be installed.

12. My neighbor is doing something that isn’t allowed in the subdivision by covenants and restrictions, can the county help me enforce these issues?

No. The County does not have the authority to enforce Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. These are private restrictions between the subdivision and its property owners.

13. Is my home in the floodplain?

Please contact the Stillwater County Certified Floodplain Manager at 406-322-8055 for more information or visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center online.

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1. I’m located outside of the City of Columbus and I want to close down a road for an event. What do I need to do?

You will need to file an Application for Temporary Street/Road Closure with the Road and Bridge Department.

2. When will my road get plowed?

Please refer to the Stillwater County Road and Bridge Snow Removal Plan (PDF).

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1. What are the laws regarding concealed carry in Montana?

 Here are the links to the Montana Code Annotated that discuss the laws in Montana regarding concealed carry. MCA 45-8-321 Permit to carry a concealed weapon and MCA 45-8-329 Concealed weapon permits from other states recognized and Constitutional Carry HB 102.

2. How do I obtain copies of reports?

A citizen may request a copy of a “call-for-service” for a fee of $2.00 per page.  A call-for-service contains the basic information collected by our office when an incident is first reported.  Any further information contained in the official incident or arrest reports contains criminal justice information that, by law, may not be released to the public.

3. How do I obtain fingerprints?

Our office will take fingerprints for purposes such as employment.  There is a fee of $5.00 per card and is taken during the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM on Tuesdays, based on deputy availability.

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1. How do I dispose of cans of paint or other similar items?

Click here to view how to dispose of Household Hazardous Waste (PDF).

2. What items do you accept at the solid waste sites?

Select the desired Solid Waste disposal location to view what materials are accepted at that particular site on the Solid Waste Site Locations and Hours page.

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1. New teachers in Stillwater County, do we need to register or renew our teaching certificates with the County Superintendent of Schools?

Yes, please contact our office.

2. Do I need to notify the County Superintendent of Schools of my intent to home school?

Yes, please contact our office or notify The County Superintendent of Schools by completing the Home School Notification Form online.