Understanding the Violation & Resolution Process

Receiving a notice of violation can be stressful, but the process is designed to be clear, consistent, and fair. The goal is to help licensees understand what needs to be corrected and provide an opportunity to resolve issues whenever possible.

What Happens

Step 1: A Violation Is Identified

When the Department identifies a potential violation during an inspection or investigation and issues a notice outlining its specifics.

Step 2: Submit Your Response

Licensees must respond via the TransAction Portal (TAP) and provide any relevant information or documentation.

Step 3: Reviewing Information You Provided

The Inspector Supervisor reviews the submitted information and issues a follow-up letter listing all unresolved issues. The department management then forwards the case to the resolution team for further review.

Step 4: Resolution Officer Assignment

A Resolution Officer is assigned to the case and serves as the primary point of contact throughout the resolution process.

The Resolution Officer will:

  • Review the facts of the case
  • Consider any mitigating and aggravating information provided
  • Communicate any remaining violations
  • Propose a resolution for each violation based on established civil penalty guidelines

Resolution may also come in the form of suspensions and/or revocations

Step 5: Responding to the Resolution Letter

Licensees or their authorized representatives may:

  • Accept the proposed resolution
  • Provide additional information for consideration
  • Ask questions about the proposed resolution

New TAP Feature

Compliance Verification Letters are now issued through TAP in addition to emails sent to the licensee’s email on record. Responses to resolution letters can now be submitted directly through the TAP account when logged in.

Benefits include:

  • All correspondence stays in one location
  • Easier access to documents and notices
  • Faster communication with the Department
  • Improved tracking of case information

If an Informal Resolution Cannot Be Reached

If the matter cannot be resolved informally, a licensee may request a formal review of the violation and proposed resolution.

Formal reviews are generally handled by the Office of Dispute Resolution, an independent third-party process that provides a structured, impartial review.

Our Goal

The resolution process is intended to:

  • Promote compliance
  • Provide a fair and transparent review process
  • Encourage open communication
  • Support positive outcomes for licensees and the Department

We are committed to helping licensees understand the process, resolve issues efficiently, and continue operating successful businesses in Montana.

Forms and Resources