Montana Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act: 310 Law
Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Title 75 / Chapter 7 / Part 1
The Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act is intended to protect and preserve streams and rivers and the lands adjacent to them. The law requires any individual or business proposing work in or near a perennial stream to apply for a 310 permit through their local conservation district.
If you are planning a project in or around a stream, this law pertains to you.
The Flathead Conservation District administers 310 permits on over 600 streams within Flathead County. Because each of these streams are unique, they require their own special considerations for maintaining health and function. 310 permits are required to ensure wise use of our natural resources and prevent degradation of our streams. Any project that will physically alter or modify the stream, its bed, or immediate banks must have a a permit. Since each stream and each project is different, permits are assessed on the ground during a site visit by District Supervisors and Fish Wildlife and Parks staff.
To learn more:
- Read the FCD Adopted Rules for specific permit requirements and standards
- Visit the Frequently Asked Questions page
- View the Forms & Applications
- Read this Summary of the 310 Permitting Process
- Visit the Montana DNRC Stream Permitting website
- Read more about the history of Conservation Districts and the 310 Law
Still have questions about stream permits?
Contact our office at 406-752-4220 or streampermits@flatheadcd.org!