| I need help with... | Contact | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Birth and death certificates | Clerk & Recorder | (406) 758-5526 |
| Budget information | Finance Department | (406) 758-5538 |
| Burn permits and information | Environmental Health | (406) 751-8130 |
| Marriage licenses | Clerk of District Court | (406) 758-5660 |
| Mosquito control | Environmental Health | (406) 751-8145 |
| Subdivisions and zoning | Planning & Zoning | (406) 751-8200 |
Commissioner Services
Some requests are handled through the Commissioners’ Office because they require board review, official approval, or coordination between departments.
| I need help with... | Where to go | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Fire district annexation | Commissioner Services | (406) 758-5503 |
| Firing range approval | Commissioner Services | (406) 758-5503 |
| Indigent burial assistance | Commissioner Services | (406) 758-5503 |
| Raffle permits | Commissioner Services | (406) 758-5503 |
State Agencies and Other Organizations
Some common questions involve state agencies or organizations outside Flathead County government. The information below explains who handles these topics and where to start.
Business Licenses
Flathead County does not issue general business licenses. Business licensing and tax identification requirements are generally administered by the State of Montana.
Property Tax Assessments
Property tax assessments are determined by the Montana Department of Revenue, not Flathead County. Questions about property values, assessments, classifications, and appraisal decisions should be directed to the Department of Revenue.
Building Codes and Trade Permits
Flathead County does not operate a County Building Department because county voters elected not to establish one. As a result, county building permits are not required in unincorporated areas of Flathead County.
Depending on your location, you may fall within the jurisdiction of a city building department. State building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, elevator, and boiler codes may also apply.
Call Montana Building Codes Bureau Visit BuildingCodes.mt.gov Opens in a new tab.
No-Wake Zones
The Board of County Commissioners may approve no-wake zones on certain lakes and waterways. However, the zones are established, signed, administered, and enforced by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Questions about existing no-wake zones, enforcement, signage, or boating regulations should be directed to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Common Questions About Local Authority
Noise Complaints
Flathead County does not have authority under Montana law to adopt a countywide noise ordinance. Because of this limitation, the County cannot investigate or enforce most noise-related complaints.
Residents experiencing ongoing noise issues should contact the appropriate local law enforcement agency or consult private legal resources regarding nuisance disputes.
Are Chambers of Commerce county departments?
No. Chambers of Commerce are separate community organizations, not Flathead County departments.
Chambers of Commerce
| Community | Phone |
|---|---|
| Bigfork | (406) 837-5888 |
| Columbia Falls | (406) 892-2072 |
| Lakeside/Somers | (406) 844-3715 |
| Kalispell | (406) 758-2800 |
| Whitefish | (406) 862-3501 |