Montana § 85-2-131 - Application For Change Of Watercourse Name
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 85-2-131 — Application For Change Of Watercourse Name, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 85-2-131. Application For Change Of Watercourse Name
Application for change of watercourse name. (1) All applications for the change of name of any watercourse or natural source of water supply, including natural streams, dry coulees, springs, lakes, rivers, or creeks which lie wholly within the limits of one county must be made to the district court of the county where the watercourse or other natural source of water supply, the name of which is proposed to be changed, or some part thereof is situated. The petition must state in ordinary and concise language: (a) a description of the watercourse or other natural source of water supply, the name of which is proposed to be changed, identifying the same as near as may be by natural monuments; (b) the present name of the stream or other natural source of water supply and the name to which the petitioners desire the same to be changed, together with the reasons for the desired change of name; (c) the names of all persons or corporations owning real estate abutting upon or water rights upon the same whose titles appear of record in the office of the county clerk and recorder in the county in which the watercourse or other natural source of water supply, or some part thereof, is situated. (2) The petition must be signed by not less than 10 owners of real property abutting upon said watercourse or other natural source of water supply or owning water rights upon the same. (3) The insufficiency of the petition in any of the above respects shall not be held to defeat the jurisdiction of the court.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 85-2-131
What does Montana Code Annotated § 85-2-131 cover?
Section 85-2-131 ("Application For Change Of Watercourse Name") 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 § 85-2-131?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 85-2-131" (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 § 85-2-131 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.