Short-Term Rentals
Montana State Law and the Town of Ennis Code require licensing and inspections before operating. Ensure compliance to avoid fines and ensure your rental is up to legal standards for safety and quality. For assistance with the DPHHS Public Accommodation License, contact Madison County Sanitarian’s Office
Short-Term Rental Licensing Checklist
- Obtain a Public Accommodation License.
- Access the Short-Term Rental Business License application and required forms, available at Town Hall or for download online.
- Complete all application materials in full.
- Submit the completed forms to Town Hall along with the applicable licensing fee.
Please ensure all requirements are met prior to beginning short-term rental operations. For additional information or assistance, contact Town Hall.
Related Documents
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Business Forms
- Business License Application - Renewal Required Annually July 1 ( PDF / 466 KB )
- SHORT TERM RENTAL EXAMPLE DOCS ( PDF / 544 KB )
- Short Term Rental Business License Town Code 3-4-1 – Sign Requirement ( PDF / 33 KB )
- Short Term Rental Checklist – Town of Ennis ( PDF / 247 KB )
- Town Code – Title 3 Business Licenses and Regulations ( PDF / 209 KB )
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license?
Yes. Montana State law requires all short-term rentals, including Airbnb and VRBO properties, to obtain a Public Accommodation License issued by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). In addition, the Town of Ennis requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a Town business license in order to legally operate within Town limits.
How do I apply for a business license?
County Requirements:
You must complete a Public Sleeping Accommodation Plan Review and undergo an annual health and safety inspection. Please contact the Madison County Sanitarian Office to begin this process.
Town Requirements:
Complete the Town of Ennis Short-Term Rental Checklist and Business License Application. Submit the completed checklist, application, payment, a copy of the County license, and proof of sales tax registration to Town Hall.
What lodging taxes apply?
The State of Montana imposes a total 8% lodging tax on stays of 29 days or less, consisting of a 4% Lodging Facility Use Tax and a 4% Lodging Sales Tax. This tax applies to the full listing price, including cleaning fees and additional guest fees.
Many booking platforms, such as Airbnb, automatically collect and remit these taxes on behalf of hosts; however, property owners should verify tax collection and remittance responsibilities directly with their booking platform.