Public Accommodations
Licensed Establishment Sanitarians are available for calls and walk-in questions
Monday – Thursday 8:00am – 12:00pm & 1 :00pm – 5:00pm
Closed noon – 1:00pm for lunch
406.258.4755 or [email protected]
Public accommodations, such as hotels, tourist homes, and bed and breakfasts 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.
Inspections are conducted annually by our sanitarians for compliance with state rules. These inspections are public record and can be viewed here or at our office.
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.
- 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.