Environment (Local Government)

This bill amends Montana law to prevent counties from including certain "sensitive lands" requirements in growth policies for areas outside city boundaries. It directly affects counties, cities, and landowners in rural areas by restricting how local governments can regulate land use outside incorporated cities. The key change prohibits counties from imposing specific land use rules (like those for natural resources or fire safety) on rural lands within their zoning policies. The bill also revises county zoning requirements and includes a funding appropriation, amending sections 76-1-601, 76-2-203, and 76-2-212 of Montana Code Annotated.

HB 889 aimed to revise laws governing local government land use regulations and county zoning. The bill proposed that certain requirements related to "sensitive lands" could not be included in growth policies for areas located outside of city limits. It also detailed the required contents for local growth policies, affecting how counties and cities plan for future development and manage resources. This legislation would have impacted local governments' authority over land use planning in unincorporated areas.