MT SB381

Department of Natural Resources and Conservation must identify all state-owned lands under 100 contiguous acres suitable for homesteading within 1 year of the act's effective date

Qualified homesteaders must have been continuous Montana residents for the past 10 years and may purchase parcels up to 5 acres at full market value before January 1, 2037

Eligible state lands must have legal access, be undeveloped, not be state parks or fishing access sites, and have no physical or legal barriers to development

Homesteaders must build a home with permanent foundation within 5 years of purchase that serves as their primary residence

Failure to meet the 5-year building requirement results in property and improvements reverting to state ownership, with the purchase price refunded to the homesteader