Billings Chamber Supports Building Fee Reductions

Dan Brooks with the Billings Chamber testified on Monday night in support of the reductions. City Council proceeded to vote unanimously to cut building permit fees by up to 31%, potentially saving the local building industry between $750,000 and $1,000,000 annually. The proposal covers building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire system permits, with customers benefiting from reductions of 23–31%.

Council approval delivered on a commitment Council had signaled to the building community in recent years. The resolution simplifies fee schedules, eliminates plan revision and deferred submittal fees, and reduces commercial plan review costs from 65% to 60% of the permit fee. The new rates take effect on or after March 2, coinciding with the rollout of new permitting software.