Located in Butte, Montana
Friday through Tuesday
Rules and Safety
Butte Silver Bow County is updating the zoning ordinance which will impact the Silver Bow Drive-In Theatre.
In this zoning draft proposal, outdoor entertainment venues are not permitted in an industrial zone. That omission in the draft places the drive-in as non-conforming use.
The draft is a 311-page document, but in chapter 13 (nonconformities), we find the following statement:
"It is the intent of this ordinance to permit these nonconformities to continue until they are removed, but not to encourage their survival.”
We will offer comments requesting that outdoor entertainment venues be permitted in the industrial zone and that chapters 5: uses and specific conditions, chapter 6: general regulations, and chapter 13: nonconformities, contain provisions to protect the legacy use of the drive-in whether it is permitted or non-conforming.
Given this language, without dedicated provisions, the long-term viability of the Silver Bow Drive-In Theatre is at stake. Many drive-in theaters have been forced to close due to development, let’s create a zoning ordinance that protects local landmarks.
You can help us by sending your comments to the planning department or attending the public hearing on Thursday, July 31st at 5:30pm, BSB Courthouse.
Public comments can also be emailed to planning@bsb.mt.gov.
The zoning draft can be read here: BSB - Updated Zoning Ordinance Draft and more information can be found at the Zoning Ordinance Update homepage.
We appreciate everyone's continued support!
Family Owned and Operated
Updates
Open for the 2025 Drive-in Season
The Silver Bow Drive-In is committed to the safety of everyone, please help us by observing and obeying the following rules:
Speed Limit is 5 mph, Always Drive with Caution
Keep Headlights on While driving and off When Parked
No Sitting/Lying on the Ground without a chair. Sitting in the bed of a truck & inside the back of a SUV is allowed.
You Must Stay Clear of the Driving Lane and be Aware of Your Surroundings
No Refunds
No Admission After Ticket Booth Closes
The purchase of a food permit is required if outside food and beverages (non-alcoholic) are brought onto the premises
No Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, Fireworks, or Firearms
Shoes are Required
Do Not Switch Sides; Ticket is Valid for One Side Only
Children Must be Accompanied by a Guardian at all Times
No Running or Roughhousing, Do Not Climb on Fences or Structures
Please Keep All Pets Inside Vehicle Cab
Do Not Create Hazards for Others; ie Digging Holes, Throwing Objects
Smoking is Prohibited within 30ft of any Building, Do Not Discard Tobacco Products on the Ground
Entry without Payment is Theft of Services, Violators will be Charged a Re-Admission Fee
Disruptive Activities will Result in Removal from Premises Without a Refund