What is the security deposit limit in Montana?

Montana has no statutory cap on security deposits (MCA §70-25-201/-202; §70-24-312; verified June 2026).

How much notice must a Montana landlord give before entering?

Montana requires 24 hours advance notice before entry except in emergencies.

Does Montana have rent control?

No. Montana has no rent control.

What is unusual about Montana's eviction law?

Montana is one of the few states requiring 'just cause' for eviction after a tenant has lived in a unit for 6 months. Landlords must have a legitimate reason (non-payment, lease violation) to evict long-term tenants.

How long does a Montana landlord have to return a security deposit?

10 days if there are no deductions; 30 days with an itemized list if deductions are taken.

Montana Tenant Rights & Lease Laws

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit No statutory cap

Return Deadline 30 days (with itemized list) or 10 days (if no deductions) days after move-out

Interest Required No

Notice Requirements

Landlord Entry Notice 24 hours

Lease Termination Notice (Month-to-Month) 30 days

Rent Increase Notice 30 days

Rent Control

Rent Control: No statewide rent control

Habitability & Repair Requirements

Montana landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition.

Market Conditions & Lease-Risk Notes for Montana

Bozeman has seen some of the fastest rent appreciation in the country due to remote work migration and proximity to ski resorts. 1BR rents average $1,800–2,400/month — extraordinary for a city its size. Billings is Montana's largest city with a more stable energy-industry driven market. Missoula benefits from University of Montana demand.

Montana is landlord-favorable with no statutory cap on security deposits for residential leases and only basic habitability requirements (MCA §70-25-201/-202; §70-24-312; verified June 2026). Bozeman's rapid price appreciation and tight vacancy have given landlords significant leverage despite thin statutory protections.

Bozeman leases where auto-renewal provisions lock tenants into another year at market rates that may increase 10–15%. Personal guaranty requirements in commercial leases that have intensified with the market's growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security deposit limit in Montana?: Montana has no statutory cap on security deposits (MCA §70-25-201/-202; §70-24-312; verified June 2026).
How much notice must a Montana landlord give before entering?: Montana requires 24 hours advance notice before entry except in emergencies.
Does Montana have rent control?: No. Montana has no rent control.
What is unusual about Montana's eviction law?: Montana is one of the few states requiring 'just cause' for eviction after a tenant has lived in a unit for 6 months. Landlords must have a legitimate reason (non-payment, lease violation) to evict long-term tenants.
How long does a Montana landlord have to return a security deposit?: 10 days if there are no deductions; 30 days with an itemized list if deductions are taken.

Cities in Montana

Find city-specific lease guides for major markets in Montana: