Montana § 77-4-128 - Permission For And Disposition Of Improvements
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 77-4-128 — Permission For And Disposition Of Improvements, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 77-4-128. Permission For And Disposition Of Improvements
Permission for and disposition of improvements. (1) A geothermal lessee of state lands has the right to place upon the leased lands a reasonable amount of improvements, provided that the improvements are directly related to the purpose of the lease. (2) Whenever another person becomes the geothermal lessee, the person shall pay the former lessee the reasonable value of the improvements at the time the new lessee takes possession of the improvements. (3) In determining the value of these improvements, the original cost, the present condition, and the suitability of the improvements for the uses ordinarily made of geothermal resources must be considered. (4) The former lessee may remove or dispose of the movable improvements from the land within 60 days from the expiration of the former lessee's lease except for the well casing and other equipment necessary for the preservation of any geothermal well. If not removed within 60 days, improvements become the property of the state unless the board grants additional time for the removal of the improvements. Before a lease is issued to the new lessee, the new lessee shall show that the new lessee has paid the former lessee the value of the improvements as agreed upon by them or as fixed and determined under 77-4-129 , that the new lessee has offered to pay the value of the improvements as fixed and determined, or that the former lessee elects to remove the improvements.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 77-4-128
What does Montana Code Annotated § 77-4-128 cover?
Section 77-4-128 ("Permission For And Disposition Of Improvements") is part of the Montana Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Montana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Montana § 77-4-128?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 77-4-128" (Montana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Montana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Montana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Montana attorney.
How does Montana § 77-4-128 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Montana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Montana.