Billings, MT Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Storage cap
- 3 inoperable vehicles per property
- Time limit
- 5 consecutive days
- First notice period
- 10 days to abate
- First violation fine
- $300 civil penalty
- Repeat violation fine
- $500 civil penalty
Summary
Billings caps open storage of inoperable vehicles at three per property, and only for up to five straight days, under its public nuisance ordinance.
Inoperable vehicle means any discarded, ruined, wrecked, or dismantled motor vehicle or motor vehicle parts or components. Any vehicle not capable of immediate and legal operation on public roads shall be considered an inoperable vehicle... Public nuisances include but are not limited to... The open storage of more than three (3) inoperable vehicles on any premises for more than five (5) consecutive days.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 66 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
City code treats more than three inoperable vehicles left in open storage on any premises for over five consecutive days as a public nuisance. "Inoperable vehicle" covers any discarded, ruined, wrecked, or dismantled vehicle, or one not capable of immediate legal operation on public roads. Code enforcement or police issue a written notice giving at least 10 days to abate; if it's still not resolved after a second 10-day notice, the city can pursue municipal court action and abatement, billing the owner and placing a lien on the property if unpaid.
Violations & Fines
Municipal infraction: $300 civil penalty for a first violation, $500 for each repeat within 24 months; unabated cases can lead to city abatement with costs assessed as a property lien.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many junk vehicles can I keep on my property in Billings?
What counts as an inoperable vehicle under Billings code?
What happens if I don't move the vehicles after notice?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Billings
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