Frequently Asked Questions

Items left behind during the clean-up process will be removed.  The City will store a few items that are left behind in public spaces: working bicycles, survival and camping gear in working condition, identifiable personal items such as documents, cell phones, computers and labeled medications.  You can retrieve stored belongings at the Police Department, without being asked about your criminal background or outstanding warrants.  The City will store items for 30 days.  Items that are clearly discarded or are valueless, hazardous, soiled, or subject to rotting or spoiling will be discarded.  

You can report online to the City using this form. You can also report by phone at 406-552-6006. City staff investigate every complaint, though the response may not be immediate. If you feel you are in danger or a crime is being committed, please call 911.

You can see details on our Vehicle Permitting webpage or download the brochure (PDF).

Violations are treated as municipal infractions, not criminal offenses, so they do not result in jail time.

Here’s what to expect if you violate regulations:

• Written Warning: You will first receive a written warning.
• Infraction Notice: You might get a formal infraction 24 hours or more after the warning.

For Unsafe or Unsanitary Conditions:

• City staff will post a 120-hour notice at the site for cleanup.
• If property is not removed within 120 hours, it will be considered abandoned.

For Other Violations:

• A 24-hour notice will be posted.
• Any personal items left behind will be considered abandoned.

The City works with the community and state agencies to support people experiencing homelessness in the community. Missoula’s own Community Development Division includes policies and resources to address housing and affordability. The strategy is a guiding document on the path to ensuring everyone in Missoula has a safe place to call home.

The City has programs to improve housing affordability, provide a single point of entry for those experiencing houselessness, and coordinate with community partners to provide shelter services.  See the Poverello Center's website for the Homeless Outreach Team and shelter support donation needs.