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Public Accommodations

Licensed Establishment Sanitarians are available for calls and walk-in questions
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 8:00am – 12:00pm & 1 :00pm – 5:00pm
Closed noon – 1:00pm for lunch
No Sanitarian available on Thursdays

406.258.4755 or [email protected]

Public accommodations, such as hotels, tourist homes, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds or trailer courts provide lodging to the public. These facilities need to be licensed to operate. Before a license is issued, an application must be submitted to our department for review. Existing facilities that remodel or change ownership also require review.

Public Accommodation inspections are conducted annually by our sanitarians for compliance with state rules. These inspections are public record and can be viewed on the link below.

Guidelines for an Efficient Review Process

While most reviews are usually completed within a couple of weeks, they may take between 30-60 days depending on staff resources and the completeness of the application submitted.

To make your review process as fast and easy as possible, ensure the following:

  • Submit a completed application that is easy to read.
  • Be prepared to pay for the application when it is submitted.
  • If something asked in the application does not apply to your operation, don’t leave it blank, write N/A.
  • Plan ahead so that the project is not delayed.
  • Check-in with other agencies (if applicable) during the review process.
  • Do not start construction or remodeling prior to getting an approval letter.
  • Submit an application that reflects how you intend to operate at the time of licensing.
  • Submit the final copies of your floor plan as changes may result in delays or additional fees.
  • Respond quickly to questions from the reviewer.
Items to Submit

Items to Submit:

  • Application form completed and signed.
    • Public Accommodations (Hotels, Motels, & Extended Stays) Plan Review Application
    • Tourist Home Plan Review Applications
    • Bed and Breakfast Plan Review Application
  • Site plan showing:
    • Location and footprint of the building(s) and outdoor swimming or bathing/spa areas,
    • Roads on/adjacent to the parcel, parking area, and driveways,
    • Location of outdoor solid waste receptacle(s), and/or recycled material bins,
    • If applicable, add the following:
      • Location of well and schematic of water supply coming into the building,
      • Location and schematic of septic system and/or sanitary sewer line from the building,
      • Location of surface water (river, creek, pond, etcetera),
      • Location of boundary lines.
  • Floor plan of the Tourist Home, with all rooms labeled; including all sleeping rooms, bathrooms, storage areas (including clean bedding/linens/towels, and cleaning supplies), laundry/janitorial rooms, and kitchen. Show all sinks, beds/futons/sleeper sofas, and major appliances (laundry machines, hot-water heaters, refrigerators, etc.).
  • Septic permit if applicable.
  • Well log or other information regarding the construction and source of a private water supply, if applicable.
Other Licenses and Regulatory Agencies

Other Licenses and Regulatory Agencies

  • There are many codes that you may need to comply with including those from building, fire, wastewater treatment plant, zoning, and the department of revenue. While it is not the health department’s responsibility to enforce their codes, there may be instances where you cannot be approved to operate until you comply with their regulations.
  • A business registration is required if you operate in the City of Missoula.

All Plan Review Applications

For an emailed copy of a Plan Review Application please fill out the form below or you if you prefer you can come into our office at 301 W Alder. We are located on the 2nd floor.


Online Inspections

Inspections are conducted annually by our sanitarians for compliance with state rules. These inspections are public records and can be viewed online by clicking on the โ€œInspection Reportsโ€ button below or by coming into our office at 301 W Alder.


Trailer Courts and Campgrounds

If you own a trailer court, campground, or trailer home, you will be notified if something needs to be fixed or action needs to be taken at your property. If no action or minimal action has been taken by the follow-up inspection, a third inspection may be required which could result in fines.

Common Items to Clean Up
  • Tall Grass/Weeds – Trimming tall grass/weeds is necessary to combat pests and weeds, and ensure plant growth on the property is under control.
  • Furiture – Items like couches, armchairs, matresses, box springs, etc. are required to be properly disposed of. They cannot sit outside on the property, exposed to the elements.
  • Tires – Tires can become a breeding ground for mosquitos and other pests when they fill up with water. Please stack and cover any tires being stored outside.

If your establishment has one or multiple community clean-up days where dumpsters are brought on site and massive cleanup efforts are made, please let us know in advance!

Change in Ownership

If your establishment is sold or ownership has changed, it’s important to contact Missoula Public Health so we can accurately update the license and get in touch with new owners. Always double-check the information on your inspection report.

Questions and updates can be made by contacting Environmental Health.