Squatters
MCA 45-6-206 — entering and living on another's premises without consent, removed at once by police, with rent owed back
A person commits unlawful squatting by knowingly entering another's premises and residing there for any period of time without the consent of the owner, the rightful occupant or the owner's representative.
Who handles this in Montana: legal aid programs, lawyer referral and the state offices, listed in the Montana directory.
- It is a misdemeanor, and the court also orders restitution equal to the fair market rent for the whole stay.
- Showing a false document claiming permission to be there is forgery.
- Intentionally damaging the property is criminal mischief.
Law enforcement may immediately remove a person committing unlawful squatting from the premises.
Sources for this section (1)
- MCA 45-6-206 — Unlawful squatting
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Montana attorney.