Business Licensing and Home Occupations

Business Licenses/Safety Inspection Certificates

As of December 1, 2017, the Great Falls Fire Department processes Safety Inspection Certificates (SIC’s). If you need information or have questions, please contact 406-727-8070. The Safety Inspection Certificate fees were established to recover the costs of providing special services (fire and building inspections) to every business within the City. These services ensure that business locations are safe for customers, neighbors, and employees.

Certificates, Contractor Licenses and More

Please be informed that the City of Great Falls has updated its business license process to reflect code changes by the State of Montana. Effective January 1, 2025, all current development or trades license holders in the City of Great Falls must reapply using the new application forms. The Planning and Community Development Department (PCD) receives and processes these applications, including; Contractor License Verifications, Home Occupation Certificates, Non-Resident Vendor Certificates, Gas Fitter Individual Licenses, Telecommunications, Alcoholic Beverage Licenses, and Mobile Home Parks.

Applications for these licenses are attached below as Supporting Documents.

• Contractor License Verification: All Contractors will need to complete the Contractor License Verification Form providing Planning and Community Development with copies of their State Licensing. This includes professionals that currently hold a safety inspection certificate, home business zoning certificate, or non-resident vendor certificate. In addition, you will need to submit insurance and bond information prior to issuance. For more information, please see the Contractor License Verification Form below.

• Home Occupation Certificate: The City of Great Falls allows many people to conduct business out of their home for a nominal fee, as long as certain zoning requirements are met. Home Businesses must meet location and size requirements, as well as adhere to employee and vehicle limitations. Full zoning requirements are detailed in the application under the Home Occupations Certificate checklist for your reference. The following uses do not qualify as a home occupation: veterinary services, medical offices, animal boarding or grooming, barber, hair care, restaurant, vehicle repair, or any other similar high traffic generation activity. Reach out to PCD for more information.

• Non-Resident Vendor Certificate: Business professionals and contractors located outside of City limits are required to obtain a non-resident vendor certificate to conduct business within City limits. This certificate can be renewed weekly or yearly. For more information, please see the Non-Resident Vendor Application.

• Gas Fitter Individual License: The City of Great Falls only licenses individuals for gas fitter licenses. For this license a test is required to be completed at PCD prior to issuance. Reach out to PCD for more information and next steps.

• Telecommunication Towers: Telecommunication Towers must obtain a Telecommunications License and a building permit. This license is required for all providers and contractors providing telecommunication services. Building and Zoning reviews occur concurrently during the review process. Building plans need to be engineered with a registered Montana State design professional. Reach out to PCD for more information.