Montana Mobile Home Park Closure: Renters’ Relocation Rights

If you rent a lot in a Montana mobile home park facing closure, it's normal to feel anxious. Knowing your relocation rights can help you plan your next steps and seek support. This article explains what Montana law requires park owners to do, what assistance may be available to renters, and how to protect your housing stability during a park closure.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Closures in Montana

According to Montana law, a park owner may decide to close a mobile home or manufactured housing park for reasons like redevelopment or sale. When this happens, certain responsibilities must be met, and affected renters have legal protections.

• Montana law requires advance closure notice to tenants
• Possible relocation assistance sources and eligibility
• Official forms and steps to take if you need to dispute the closure process or find support

Your Rights as a Renter When a Park Closes

Under the Montana Mobile Home Park Lot Rental Act, park owners must:

• Provide at least 12 months’ written notice to every affected tenant before park closure or sale that requires you to move your home^[1]
• Inform tenants of their rights and available relocation resources

This gives tenants time to plan and explore options. If you did not receive at least 12 months’ notice, you may be able to challenge the closure or request additional time.

What is Relocation Assistance?

As of 2024, Montana law does not require landlords to pay direct financial relocation assistance to renters. However, some municipalities or counties may offer local programs, and special assistance may be available for low-income residents.

• Check with your local Montana Housing Authority for resources
• Non-profit legal services can provide guidance on your options

Even without mandated relocation funds, the law does require clear notification and fair treatment during the process.

Important Forms for Park Closure Situations

• Official Notice of Termination of Tenancy (No Form Number)
  When used: Park owners use this written notice to inform you that your lot rental agreement will end due to park closure.
  How it’s used: The owner must deliver or mail this notice at least 12 months before the proposed closure date.
  Read the legal requirements for park closure notice
• Request for Relief or Hearing Form (No Form Number)
  When used: If you believe you didn’t receive sufficient notice or were otherwise treated unfairly, you may petition for relief.
  How it’s used: Requests are filed with the court in your county or directly to the Justice Court (Montana Justice of the Peace Court). There is no set statewide form, but you will need to contact the court clerk.
  Find your local Montana Justice Court

Action Steps for Tenants Facing Park Closure

• Read the notice carefully – confirm the closure date and if at least 12 months’ notice was given
• Contact Montana Housing Authority for possible relocation help
• If you believe your rights were violated (e.g., insufficient notice), consider filing a petition with your local Justice Court
• Document all communications and keep copies of the notice and any responses

FAQ: Montana Mobile Home Park Closures

1. How much notice must my landlord give before closing my mobile home park?
   Montana requires at least 12 months' written notice before closing a park or permanently changing its use.
2. Does the park owner have to pay me relocation money?
   Montana law does not require direct financial relocation payments; however, local or non-profit resources may be available.
3. What can I do if I didn’t get enough notice?
   You can file a petition with your local Justice Court to seek relief if proper notice wasn’t provided.
4. Where do I get the official forms to object or appeal a park closure?
   There is no state-issued form; you must contact your county’s Justice Court for filing requirements.
5. Where can I find relocation assistance or moving help in Montana?
   You can contact Montana Housing Authority, local housing resources, or legal aid organizations for assistance and referrals.

Key Takeaways

• Montana renters must get at least 12 months’ written notice before a mobile home park is closed
• Relocation assistance from the landlord is not guaranteed, but resources exist through state and local agencies
• If you have concerns about your rights or notice received, you can seek remedy through your local Justice Court

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Montana Housing Authority – Guidance and links to local housing resources
• Montana Justice Court – Handles tenancy disputes and park closure cases
• Montana Legal Services Association – Free renter legal advice and help with court filings
• Montana Mobile Home Park Lot Rental Act – Full text of state law on park closures and tenant rights

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1. Montana Mobile Home Park Lot Rental Act, Section 70-33-427: Notice of Park Conversion
2. Montana Housing Authority: Manufactured Home Park Closures
3. Montana Justice Court Information

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