Montana Eviction Timeline
Step-by-step legal timeline from notice to lockout.
The eviction process in Montana follows a strict statutory timeline. Landlords must provide proper notice, wait for the notice period to expire, file with the court, and obtain a judgment before a lockout can occur. The timeline below outlines each step in chronological order based on current state law.
Eviction Process Timeline
Notice Period (Nonpayment)
3 days
Notice Period (Lease Violation)
14 days (3 days for unauthorized pet/person or verbal abuse)
Landlord Can File
Landlord may file after the notice period expires without cure or payment.
Tenant Answer Deadline
10 days
Hearing Timeline
Typically 2–4 weeks after filing, depending on court schedule.
Lockout / Physical Eviction
Only the sheriff may remove the tenant after a court judgment and writ.
Related Resources
Explore statutes, detailed rules, and calculators for this state.