Billings's Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles sidewalk & pedestrian rules a little differently. In Billings, Montana, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Sidewalk Repair

Billings property owners must repair defective abutting sidewalks; after 30 days' notice, the city repairs and assesses the cost to the owner.

Key details: Repair duty: Owner or agent. Notice period: 30 days before city acts. City repair cost: Assessed to owner. Lien trigger: 60+ days unpaid.

Cost of city repair assessed and collected against the property under BMCC Art. 13-1200; amounts $500+ may be paid in installments over 5 years, unpaid balances become a lien with accruing interest.

Obstruction Rules

Billings bans obstructing sidewalks, streets, or alleys, plus blocking business entrances by standing, sitting, or lying in the doorway.

Key details: Governing section: City Code § 22-408. Curb obstructions: Also barred under § 22-403. Permit path: Encroachment permit, § 22-407. First-offense penalty: Up to $300 civil fine. Repeat penalty: Up to $500 per day.

Municipal infraction, civil penalty up to $300 for a first violation and up to $500 per repeat, with each day of continued obstruction a separate offense.

Encroachment Permits

Billings requires an encroachment permit from the city administrator before anyone builds, places, or maintains any structure on public right-of-way, including small cell wireless facilities; permits are fee-based and denials can be appealed to city council within ten days.

Key details: Permit issuer: City administrator or designee. First-offense penalty: Up to $300 civil fine. Repeat-offense penalty: Up to $500 per day. Appeal window: 10 days to city clerk. Governing section: Municipal Code Sec. 22-407.

Encroaching without a permit is a municipal infraction: up to $300 for a first offense, up to $500 for each repeat, with each day counted separately (Sec. 18-1304).

This is one of the stricter rules in Billings's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Billings's sidewalk & pedestrian rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Billings is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Billings's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.