The 411 on Alcohol in Bozeman  --  What you need to know as a resident of your community

Special Security Service Charges at Loud or Unruly Gatherings

(City of Bozeman Ordinance 1656)


When a police officer responds to a loud or unruly gathering in the city with a given address, the officer shall warn the responsible person (renter and/or owner) that they will be charged the costs of special security services for any subsequent police calls to the scene over the next 12 months*. Charges include the cost of responders’ time and the cost of any emergency or other equipment used or damaged in connection with the c all.

    • In addition to the special security charges:
    • First violation = $100 fine
    • Second violation = $250 fine
    • Third violation = $500 fine


*In addition to a formal warning, police officers called to a loud or unruly party may also cite the host with a “public nuisance” violation, which entails fines up to $500. Additional sanctions and fines, such as those associated with providing alcohol to a minor may also be imposed at the officer’s discretion.

Minor In Possession—MIP

(MCA 45-5-624)

In the state of Montana, it is illegal for an individual under the age of 21 to consume or possess an intoxicating substance. This does not apply if the individual is handling alcohol in the course of legitimate employment.

As of 2005, individuals violating this law will face:

    • First offense—$100—$300 fine, plus fees associated with 20 hours of community service, a community based substance abuse informational course, and any other court mandated sanctions.
    • Second offense—$200—$600 fine, plus fees associated with 40 hours of community service, a community based substance abuse informational course, and possible drug or alcohol treatment.
    • Three or more offenses— #300—$900 fine, plus fees associated with 60 hours of community service, a community based substance abuse informational course, and possible drug or alcohol treatment.


A first MIP offense typically costs between $350—$530

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs—DUI

(MCA 61-8-714)


It is illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Content of .08 or higher.
illegal at .02 if under 21

As of 2005, individuals violating this law will face:

First offense—imprisonment*, anywhere from 24 hours to 6 months, mandatory education program, and a fine of $300—$1,000.

Second offense—imprisonment*, anywhere from 7 days to 6 months, mandatory education and treatment program, and a fine of $600—$1,000.

Third offense—imprisonment*, anywhere from 30 days to 1 year, mandatory education and treatment program, and a fine of $1,000—$5,000.

Four or more offenses—It becomes a felony. Offender will be sentenced to the department of correction for placement in an appropriate correctional facility or program for a term up to 13 months, and a fine of $1,000- $10,000.

* Portions of the imprisonment sentence may be suspended for a period of up to one year pending completion of a court ordered chemical dependency assessment, education, or treatment.

Open Container

(MCA 61-8-460)

 
It is illegal to have an open alcoholic beverage container in a motor vehicle passenger area. An offender will be fined up to $100.

Keg Registration

(MCA 16-3-321)

 
State law requires that all beer kegs have a registration tag. This law gives police the tools to locate the adult purchaser of the keg, thus discouraging people from providing alcohol to underage drinkers.

Endangering Welfare of Children/Unlawful Transactions with Children

(MCA 45-5-622 & 623)


It is illegal to supply or encourage the use on an intoxicating substance to anyone under the age of 18. A person convicted of unlawful transactions with children could be fined up to $1000 or sentenced up to 6 months in jail or both.

Who to call


CALL 911 if your safety is at risk, a person is injured or non-responsive, or you suspect someone is being hurt.

  •