1. (1) All livestock presented to a state stock inspector or a deputy stock inspector for a brand inspection must be inspected during daylight hours.

   1. (a) Livestock may be inspected while on vehicles only when:

      1. (i) the inspector can safely read all marks and brands; and
      2. (ii) the animals are on an open truck or in a horse trailer.

2. (2) The inspection shall permit the movement of livestock from the place of inspection immediately to the destination shown on the inspection certificate.

   1. (a) Diversion or off-loading of the livestock is not allowed without further inspection:

      1. (i) except for purposes of feed or water; and
      2. (ii) only if there is no livestock at the off-loading place with which the livestock on the vehicle can mix or mingle.
3. (3) The inspection certificate shall permit the movement of livestock identified thereon for no more than 36 hours after time of issue, except that a preslaughter inspection authorizing transportation to a slaughterhouse licensed under 81-9-201, MCA, shall permit movement of livestock for up to 7 days after the time of issue.

Authorizing statute(s): 81-3-202, MCA

Implementing statute(s): 81-3-203, 81-3-211, 81-3-213, 81-3-214, MCA

History: NEW, 1977 MAR p. 263, Eff. 8/26/77; AMD, 2014 MAR p. 324, Eff. 2/14/14; AMD, 2025 MAR, Notice No. 2025-303, Eff. 9/27/25.