Montana Dog Poop Laws by County: What Dog Owners Need to Know
Montana is known for its beautiful landscapes, open trails, and pet-friendly communities. Whether you’re hiking in Bozeman or walking your pup in downtown Missoula, one rule of responsible ownership stays the same—cleaning up after your dog. While Montana doesn’t enforce a statewide dog poop law, many counties and cities have their own local ordinances that require pet waste removal.
This county-by-county guide will help you understand Montana’s dog poop laws so you can stay compliant, avoid fines, and help keep the Treasure State clean and community-friendly.
Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in Montana?
No, Montana does not have a statewide dog poop law. However, local governments—including cities, counties, and park departments—can and do adopt ordinances that make cleaning up after your dog mandatory. In most areas, leaving pet waste behind is considered a public nuisance or health violation.
Dog Poop Laws by Major Montana Counties
Gallatin County (Bozeman)
Bozeman enforces pet waste cleanup through its municipal code. According to Section 4.04.220, all pet owners must remove dog feces from public or private property that is not their own. Fines for violations start at $50 and may increase for repeated offenses.
- Applies to trails, sidewalks, parks, and downtown streets
- Pet waste stations are available in areas like Lindley Park and the Gallagator Trail
- Bag dispensers are maintained by the city and local dog groups
Want to know how old your dog is in human years? Use this dog age calculator for quick and personalized insights.
Missoula County (Missoula)
Missoula City Code requires that dog owners clean up pet waste on any public or private property not owned by them. This includes parks, sidewalks, and residential neighborhoods. Violators can be fined $100 for the first offense, with higher penalties for additional violations.
The city encourages responsible pet ownership through its “Scoop the Poop” campaign, and most dog-friendly parks include cleanup reminders and waste disposal stations.
Yellowstone County (Billings)
Billings enforces dog poop laws under its nuisance code. According to city ordinance, leaving dog feces on someone else’s property or in public spaces is prohibited. Fines typically start at $50 and can go up depending on the severity and frequency of violations.
Areas like Swords Park and Riverfront Park are monitored by park staff, and waste bags are often provided at trailheads and entrances.
Flathead County (Kalispell, Whitefish)
Kalispell and Whitefish both require dog waste cleanup in public areas. Local ordinances make it illegal to leave pet waste behind on trails, sidewalks, or private lawns. Fines start around $40 and may include citations from animal control or city enforcement officers.
Whitefish Trail and Depot Park are popular dog-walking spots with posted signs reminding owners to clean up after their pets.
Lewis and Clark County (Helena)
Helena requires dog poop cleanup through its city code. Pet waste left in public spaces, on sidewalks, or in parks is considered a violation. First-time offenders may face a $50 fine, which increases with additional offenses or complaints.
Parks such as Centennial Park and Spring Meadow Lake include dog waste stations and encourage self-enforcement through community reminders.
Not sure if your dog is considered a senior yet? Try this dog age checker to better understand their life stage and needs.
Montana County-by-County Summary Table
| County | Cleanup Required? | Typical Fine | Enforcement Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gallatin (Bozeman) | Yes | $50+ | Bozeman Animal Control |
| Missoula | Yes | $100+ | Missoula City Enforcement |
| Yellowstone (Billings) | Yes | $50–$100 | Billings Animal Control |
| Flathead (Kalispell/Whitefish) | Yes | $40–$100 | City Code Enforcement |
| Lewis and Clark (Helena) | Yes | $50+ | Helena Animal Services |
Do Rural Montana Counties Enforce Dog Poop Laws?
In more rural areas of Montana, dog poop laws may not be written into specific ordinances, but general nuisance or sanitation rules usually apply. While enforcement may be more relaxed, property owners can report ongoing issues, and township officers can intervene if pet waste becomes a health or community problem.
Even in unincorporated areas, it’s expected that dog owners clean up after their pets in:
- Community parks and fairgrounds
- Fishing spots and campgrounds
- Shared trails and sidewalks in small towns
How Are These Laws Enforced?
Montana’s dog poop laws are enforced at the local level by:
- City or county animal control officers
- Park staff and rangers
- HOAs and community associations
- Code enforcement divisions
Most cities rely on citizen reports or direct observation to issue citations. Some cities also have online reporting tools or hotlines to file pet-related complaints.
Tips to Avoid Fines and Stay Respectful
- Carry poop bags at all times during walks or hikes
- Dispose of waste in public trash bins or at home
- Use pet waste stations when provided
- Teach children and dog walkers the importance of cleanup
Need guidance on your dog’s activity level based on their age? Use this free dog age calculator to tailor your dog’s routine and wellness plan.
Are There Any Legal Exceptions?
Only under limited circumstances. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals with physical disabilities may be exempt from picking up after their service dogs. However, many still choose to comply or arrange assistance to respect public cleanliness standards.
Outside of that, all dog owners are legally and socially expected to clean up after their pets in shared or public areas.
Conclusion
Dog poop laws in Montana may differ by city or county, but the message is consistent—cleaning up after your dog is a must. Whether you’re hiking through Bozeman’s trails, exploring Missoula’s parks, or living in a small mountain town, taking responsibility for your dog’s waste is part of being a respectful and law-abiding pet owner.
Want to better understand your dog’s age and behavior? Use this dog age calculator to give your dog the care they deserve at every stage of life.