Is Flatbed Tarps Legal in Montana? (2026)
Yes. In Montana, flatbed tarps is legal. Flatbed tarps are legal in Montana, but they must be properly secured to prevent cargo from shifting, falling, or becoming a hazard on the roadway..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Montana
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-22
Flatbed Tarps laws in Montana
Montana law, specifically in the context of load securement, mandates that all loads transported on public highways must be contained, covered, or secured to prevent any part of the load from becoming loose, detached, or a hazard to other users of the highway. While there are no specific statutes explicitly regulating 'tarps' alone, a flatbed tarp, when used as a cargo protection cover, falls under the general regulations for load securement. Failure to properly secure a tarp, leading to it flapping excessively, tearing, or becoming unsecured, could be considered a violation of load securement laws. The Montana Code Annotated (MCA) relevantly addresses cargo securement. For instance, MCA 61-9-408, 'Load covering requirements,' generally prohibits loads that are not entirely contained within the vehicle's body or are not covered sufficiently to prevent spillage, loss, or escape of the material transported. Furthermore, MCA 61-9-407, 'Securing loads on vehicles,' states that a load must be secured to prevent shifting, spilling, or otherwise creating a hazard. This applies directly to how flatbed tarps must be utilized.
Frequently asked questions
Is flatbed tarps legal in Montana for travelers?
For travelers visiting Montana, flatbed tarps is currently legal. Montana law, specifically in the context of load securement, mandates that all loads transported on public highways must be contained, covered, or secured to prevent any part of the load from becoming loose, detached, or a hazard to other users of the highway. While there are no specific statutes explicitly regulating 'tarps' alone, a flatbed tarp, when used as a cargo protection cover, falls under the general regulations for load securement. Failure to properly secure a tarp, leading to it flapping excessively, tearing, or becoming unsecured, could be considered a violation of load securement laws. The Montana Code Annotated (MCA) relevantly addresses cargo securement. For instance, MCA 61-9-408, 'Load covering requirements,' generally prohibits loads that are not entirely contained within the vehicle's body or are not covered sufficiently to prevent spillage, loss, or escape of the material transported. Furthermore, MCA 61-9-407, 'Securing loads on vehicles,' states that a load must be secured to prevent shifting, spilling, or otherwise creating a hazard. This applies directly to how flatbed tarps must be utilized.
Do I need a permit for flatbed tarps in Montana?
Montana does not specifically require a permit for flatbed tarps, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport flatbed tarps through Montana?
Transport laws for flatbed tarps in Montana depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for flatbed tarps violations in Montana?
Penalties for flatbed tarps violations in Montana vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.