Frequently Asked Questions

What is a nuisance weed?
All weeds and uncared for vegetation creating potential fire hazards, physical obstructions for pedestrians and motor vehicles, or potential for spread of said vegetation.

What would be considered a nuisance weed?
A nuisance weed would be any vegetation that creates a potential fire hazard, visual or physical obstruction for pedestrians or motor vehicles, or has the potential to spread.  An example of what a nuisance weed is vegetation that has not been watered regularly to keep it green and alive, thus increasing its potential to become a fire hazard.  Height is not a factor.  

Another example is of a vacant lot.  During the spring when it rains the grass and weeds grow really tall, but they are green still, would not be considered a nuisance weeds.  When it gets hot and the grass and weeds begin to dry out that is when they would be considered nuisance weeds.

What is a noxious weed?
Noxious Weeds are any exotic plant species established or that may be introduced in the state that may render land unfit for agriculture, forestry, livestock, wildlife, or other beneficial uses or that may harm native plant communities. (Montana Code Annotated  7-22-2101)  Currently, there are 32 plants listed as noxious weeds for the state of Montana.  Individual counties can have their own noxious in addition to the states.  

Where can I find a list of noxious weeds?

To find what plants are considered noxious, we have created a document that lists the noxious weeds for both the State of Montana and Lewis and Clark County.

I live in the city limits and my neighbor has spotted knapweed on his lot.  Who do I contact to take care of this problem, city or county?
Contact the city's code enforcement office and give a description of the problem and the location, preferably a street address or closest cross streets. The more detail that is provided assists in locating the problem area. After inspection, it can be determined that the area needs to be sent to the county weed district for noxious weed enforcement.

What is each property owner responsible for?
Each property owner is responsible to control all weeds on his/her property and from his/her property line out to the center of the street or alley right of way. 

Who do I contact about weed issues?
Call the city’s Code Enforcement Officer at 406-447-8458 or email.