Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in Montana
How local government works in Montana, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse Montana’s Local Wiki pages below.
The great majority of Montana's 56 counties (53 of them) operate under general state law with a small elected Board of County Commissioners, typically three members, holding both legislative and executive power. A few counties have adopted local self-government charters; two of those — Butte-Silver Bow and Anaconda-Deer Lodge — are also consolidated city-county governments, a feature specific to those two places rather than a statewide pattern. For most Montana residents, the county commissioners are the right point of contact for a public meeting or records request.
Local government in Montana
- County governments54
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages127
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - School districts309
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts734
Single-purpose governments — fire, water, library, parks, housing, transit, and more.
Counts: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Census of Governments — Government Units listing. A consolidated city-county is counted once.
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