MSP seeks comment on fee rule

From Montana State Parks

HELENA — Montana State Parks announced that it is seeking public comment on the 2017 Biennial Fee Rule, an assemblage of user fees and associated rules for the Montana State Park system.

Public comments will be accepted through Wednesday, May 31, at 5 p.m.

The proposed user fees include adjustments to premium site and backcountry camping fees, and establishes a pet fee for yurt, cabin and tipi rentals. The proposed fee rule also clarifies language regarding peak season dates at individual parks.

Specific highlights include: • Modifies premium site camping fees — peak season only — from a 20 percent increase to a $5 increase.

• $1-2 increase on backcountry campsites per camping unit, per night to better align with industry standards.

• New $10 Pet Fee — where allowed — for cabin, yurt or tipi rentals.

User fees are the second-largest source of revenue for Montana State Parks and are critical to sustaining a quality state park system. Montana State Parks does not receive revenue generated through hunting or fishing licenses. The last state parks user fee increase for residents and nonresidents occurred in 2014 when fees were changed to reflect market pricing.

To review the proposed 2018/19 Montana State Parks Biennial Fee Rule and a reference to both current and proposed fees, visit http://stateparks.mt.gov click on “Public Notices/Submit Comments” on the right-hand task bar.

The public is invited to comment on the proposed user fee changes. Public comment will be open for 30 days. Comments must be received by Wednesday, May 31, at 5 p m. 

To comment online, visit direct link: http://stateparks.mt.gov/news/publicNotices/biennial-commission-rule/pn_0006.html.

Or go to http://stateparks.mt.gov click on “Public Notices/Submit Comments.”

The public can also email comments to [email protected].

Or send comments by regular mail to: Montana State Parks, 2018/19 Biennial Fee Rule, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701.