TIF (Tax Increment Financing)

Thinking about a project?

Contact us before work begins.
406•545•7007 | [email protected]

How Can TIF Help Your Project?

What is TIF?

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is one of the tools available within the East Billings Urban Renewal District to help property owners and businesses invest in their properties. TIF can assist with eligible improvements that eliminate blight, improve infrastructure, enhance safety, support redevelopment, and encourage private investment throughout the district.

TIF reinvests a portion of the new property tax revenue created by growth within the district back into the area, helping fund improvements that attract investment, eliminate blight, and support revitalization.

TIF does not create a new tax. As property values increase within the district, a portion of the new tax revenue generated by that growth is reinvested back into the area to fund eligible improvements and redevelopment projects.

TIF works by encouraging private investment alongside strategic public investment. Property owners and developers fund the majority of their projects, while TIF can assist with eligible improvements that remove barriers to redevelopment, improve infrastructure, and support long-term growth. The resulting increase in property values generates new tax revenue that can be reinvested back into the district.

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is only available for eligible projects located within the
East Billings Urban Renewal District (EBURD).

Before applying, confirm that your property is located within district boundaries.

View the EBURD Boundary Map (PDF)

Not sure if your property is within the district? Contact BIRDworks and we’ll be happy to help verify your location.

Structural Amenities

Examples of
TIF Eligible Improvements

TIF improvements focus on enhancing basic needs like reliable infrastructure, clean water, safe streets, and accessible public spaces, creating a stronger foundation for community growth and well-being.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure

• Sidewalks • Curbs & Gutters • Water & Sewer • Stormwater Improvements • Alley Improvements

Redevelopment

Redevelopment

• Demolition • Environmental Cleanup • Site Preparation • Workforce Housing Improvements

Site Improvements

Site Improvements

• Landcaping • Irrigation • Lighting • Parking Improvements • Public Amenities

Safety & Security

Safety & Security

• Security Lighting • Fencing • CPTED Improvements • Public Safety Enhancements

see the difference

Past Tif projects

Since 2007, TIF has helped leverage millions of dollars in private investment throughout the East Billings Urban Renewal District, supporting business expansion, infrastructure improvements, housing development, and community revitalization.

Billings Animal Family Hospital

- 2026
- Private Investment $4,053,413
- TIF $475,000

Billings Animal Family Hospital

1889 Brewing Co.

- 2024
- Private Investment $300,644
- TIF $40,837

1889 Brewing Company

GSA Department of the Interior

- 2013
- Private Investment $29,400,000
- TIF $613,000

GSA Department of the Interior

Mazabuka LLC

- 2018 and 2019
- Private Investment $39,538 and $736,162
- TIF $15,290 and $42,417

Mazabuka LLC

Lazy KT

- 2021
- Private Investment $791,800
- TIF $98,776

Lazy KT

First Interstate Bank

- 2009
- Private Investment $18 million
- TIF $1.2 million

First Interstate Bank

How the Process Works

One

Contact BIRDworks before beginning work.

Two

Discuss project eligibility.

Three

Submit an application.

Four

Advisory Committee review.

Five

City Council approval.

Six

Complete the project.

Seven

Receive reimbursement.

FAQ

Resources & District Documents

Urban Renewal Plan

The governing document that establishes the district, identifies goals, and outlines eligible TIF activities.

Master Plan

The community’s long-term vision for growth, investment, infrastructure, and redevelopment within the district.

Form-Based Code

The development regulations that guide building design, site layout, landscaping, and land use within the district.

EBURD Boundary Map

Understanding the Law

The East Billings Urban Renewal District operates under Montana’s Urban Renewal Laws. These statutes establish how urban renewal districts are created, how Tax Increment Financing (TIF) works, and what types of projects may be eligible for funding.

While BIRDworks can help guide applicants through the process, all TIF funding decisions must comply with applicable Montana law, City policy, and district plans.

Montana Urban Renewals Laws (MCA Title 7, Chapter 15, Parts 42 & 43)

Zoning Map

Our zones include:

Rail Spur Village (RSV)

Rail Spur Village Main Street (RSVMS)

Central Works (CW)

13th Main Street (13th)

Industrial Sanctuary (IS)

Questions about TIF?

Questions about TIF?