New to Belgrade and not sure what to tackle first? The first week can feel like a whirlwind, especially when you are juggling utilities, licenses, and daily life setup. You want a smooth landing so you can explore your new neighborhood with confidence. This guide walks you through what to do on day one and what to line up by week’s end, with local contacts and simple checklists. Let’s dive in.
Move-in day basics
Safety checks to do first
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Find the main water shutoff, gas shutoff, and circuit breaker panel.
- Turn on and test heat, cooling, and hot water.
- If your home uses a well or septic system, note that setup and maintenance differ from city services. Review your lease or closing documents to confirm your water and sewer type.
Document your starting point
- Take clear photos of the property’s condition.
- Record meter readings for water, gas, and electricity.
- Secure garage codes, gate remotes, and HOA info if applicable.
Admin essentials in week one
Set up water and sewer
Open or transfer your City of Belgrade water and wastewater account. You can start online or at City Hall. Have your lease or deed and a photo ID ready. For details, visit the City’s Utility Billing page on the City of Belgrade website.
Start electric and natural gas service
NorthWestern Energy serves Belgrade for electricity and natural gas. Start, stop, or move service online, or call Montana customer service at 888-467-2669. Be ready to provide ID and your new address. Learn more on NorthWestern Energy’s Start-Stop-Move page.
Update your mail
Submit a USPS change of address online and consider a temporary Hold Mail or PO Box while you settle in. The Belgrade Post Office is at 96 N Weaver St and offers passports and PO Boxes. See local details on the Belgrade Post Office information page.
Handle titles and vehicle registration
Gallatin County operates a Motor Vehicle satellite office in Belgrade at 312 W Main St, Ste B-8 for titles and registrations. Driver licenses and Real ID are handled at state driver license stations in Bozeman. Call ahead to confirm required documents for out-of-state transfers. Start with the Gallatin County Motor Vehicle Department page.
Check voter registration
If you want to vote locally, check your status and registration options with Gallatin County Elections. Deadlines and late registration rules can vary by election, so review the current schedule on the Gallatin County Elections page.
Travel-ready IDs
If you fly, review Real ID guidance and timing before your next trip. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) shares traveler info and contacts on the airport authority site.
Home basics: trash, internet, daily comfort
Trash and recycling
Private haulers handle most curbside pickup, so ask your seller or landlord for the provider and pickup day. For items not collected curbside, the Gallatin Solid Waste Management District operates free community recycling drop-off sites, including a Belgrade location. Check accepted materials and sites on the GSWMD drop-off page.
Internet and TV
Service varies by street. Order installation as soon as possible if you need wired internet since appointments can book out. If you work from home, consider a temporary mobile hotspot until installation is complete.
Health and safety you can count on
Police and non-emergency help
For emergencies, dial 911. For non-urgent matters, find the Belgrade Police Department’s public contacts and hours on the City’s Police Contact page.
Fire and EMS
Dial 911 for emergencies. For station locations and non-emergency numbers, refer to City resources and confirm current contact details before you go.
Urgent care and hospital
Bozeman Health operates B2 UrgentCare in Belgrade. Check hours and plan where you will go before you need care. See the B2 UrgentCare Belgrade page. The nearest full hospital with an emergency department is Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center in Bozeman.
Pharmacies
If you take prescriptions, transfer them during week one. Albertsons at 6999 Jackrabbit Ln offers a pharmacy and extended hours.
Family and community setup
School enrollment
Belgrade Public Schools (BSD44) lists forms and proof-of-residency requirements online. If you moved within the district or are enrolling for the first time, contact the registrar and gather documents such as proof of address, birth certificate, and immunization records. Start with the district’s enrollment and change-of-address page.
Library and community resources
The Belgrade Community Library offers public computers, printing, meeting rooms, and programs for all ages. It is also a great place to find local events and volunteer opportunities. Explore services on the City’s Belgrade Community Library page.
Pets and local rules
Plan to license your dog with the City and keep proof of current rabies vaccination on hand. Review animal regulations, including leash rules and penalties, in the Belgrade municipal code. Heart of the Valley is a helpful resource for microchipping and lost-pet guidance.
Travel and taxes
Airport and regional travel
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is in Belgrade and serves as the region’s primary airport with multiple rental car options. Review traveler guidance, parking, and contacts on the airport authority page. Rideshares and shuttles are available in the valley but can be limited, so plan ahead for early flights.
Property tax quick facts
Montana property taxes are billed in two installments each year, with half typically due on November 30 and the other half on May 31. New homeowners should locate their latest tax notice, confirm whether their mortgage includes escrow, and set reminders for due dates. For an overview, see this Montana property tax explainer.
What to bring for local offices
- Utilities and City Hall: photo ID, lease or deed, service address, last four of SSN, contact phone and email.
- NorthWestern Energy: photo ID, service address, desired start date, contact info.
- Motor Vehicle: photo ID, out-of-state title and registration, proof of insurance, proof of residence, payment method. Call first for exact requirements.
- Voter registration: photo ID and proof of residence per current county guidance.
- School enrollment: proof of residency, birth certificate, immunization records, prior school records if available.
Your 7-day Belgrade checklist
- Day 0: Test smoke and CO detectors, find shutoffs and breakers, test HVAC and hot water, record meter readings, take move-in photos.
- Day 1: Start electric and gas with NorthWestern Energy. Confirm water and sewer with the City of Belgrade Utility Billing office. Submit USPS change of address and confirm trash service or nearby recycling.
- Days 2 to 3: Handle vehicle title and registration at the Gallatin County Motor Vehicle office. If needed, schedule a driver license or Real ID appointment in Bozeman.
- Days 3 to 5: Enroll kids or update records with Belgrade Public Schools. Choose a primary care option, and transfer prescriptions.
- End of week: Review voter registration at Gallatin County Elections. License your dog, confirm internet installation, and introduce yourself to neighbors.
Before you go, confirm current hours and requirements. Offices, clinics, and programs can update schedules or document lists seasonally.
If you want a smoother landing in Belgrade, from move-in logistics to local contractor referrals, reach out to Clint Struble for concierge relocation support.
FAQs
What utilities should I set up first in Belgrade?
- Start electric and gas with NorthWestern Energy, then confirm your City of Belgrade water and sewer account and your trash service or recycling plan.
Where do I register my vehicle after moving to Belgrade?
- Use the Gallatin County Motor Vehicle satellite office in Belgrade for titles and registration and handle driver licenses at the state station in Bozeman.
How do I enroll my child in Belgrade Public Schools?
- Contact BSD44 and gather proof of residency, birth certificate, and immunization records, then follow the district’s enrollment or change-of-address instructions.
What are my options for urgent medical care in Belgrade?
- B2 UrgentCare Belgrade is available for non-life-threatening needs, and Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center in Bozeman provides hospital emergency services.
How does trash and recycling work in Belgrade?
- Private haulers manage most curbside trash, and Gallatin Solid Waste offers free community recycling drop-off sites for items not collected curbside.
