AED Requirements in Montana
Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, each Montana school district and nonpublic school with an athletic department or organized athletic program must have a cardiac emergency response plan and keep a clearly marked AED easily accessible in an unlocked location at each school athletic venue and event (MCA 20-7-1339). Any entity that uses or allows use of an AED must tell the local 9-1-1 center where it is, maintain and test it with written records and make sure EMS is called each time it is used (MCA 50-6-502).
Montana AED Law Overview
Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, each Montana school district and nonpublic school with an athletic department or organized athletic program must have a cardiac emergency response plan and keep a clearly marked AED easily accessible in an unlocked location at each school athletic venue and event (MCA 20-7-1339). Any entity that uses or allows use of an AED must tell the local 9-1-1 center where it is, maintain and test it with written records and make sure EMS is called each time it is used (MCA 50-6-502).
Every year, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7-10%. Having an AED on-site and trained staff ready to use it can mean the difference between life and death.
Whether Montana mandates AED placement for your organization or not, the investment in an AED program protects your employees, customers, and community — and can significantly reduce liability exposure.
Specific Requirements
- School districts and nonpublic schools with an athletic department or organized athletic program: a venue-specific cardiac emergency response plan for school athletic practices and events, starting with the 2026-2027 school year (MCA 20-7-1339)
- Those schools: a clearly marked AED easily accessible in an unlocked location at each athletic venue and event, tested and maintained to the manufacturer's guidelines, with EMS told its type and location (MCA 20-7-1339)
- Coaches of youth athletic activities: current CPR, first aid and AED certification (MCA 20-7-1339)
- Any entity that uses or allows use of an AED: written notice of its location to the local 9-1-1 center, maintenance and testing with written records, and EMS summoned at each use (MCA 50-6-502)
- State reimbursement for school AEDs: $1 for each $1 a district spends, up to $700 per AED, from money appropriated for the biennium that began July 1, 2025; the school AED duty does not depend on it (House Bill 869 of 2025, Section 4)
Sources
These summaries were last checked against the official sources above in October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Other state or local rules may also apply; check the current law or ask an attorney about your organization.
Who Needs an AED in Montana?
Offices & Workplaces
Corporate offices, coworking spaces, and business parks
The American Heart Association reports that 10,000 cardiac arrests occur in the workplace each year. Having an AED can increase survival rates by up to 70%.
Schools & Universities
K-12 schools, colleges, and educational institutions
Student athletes and staff are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Many states now mandate AEDs in schools.
Gyms & Fitness Centers
Health clubs, yoga studios, CrossFit boxes, and recreation centers
Intense physical activity can trigger cardiac events. Most states require AEDs in fitness facilities.
Churches & Places of Worship
Churches, synagogues, mosques, and community halls
Large gatherings of all ages, often with elderly congregants, make AEDs essential for community safety.
Restaurants & Hotels
Restaurants, hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues
High foot traffic and diverse demographics make AEDs critical for guest safety and liability protection.
Construction & Industrial Sites
Construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing plants
Physical labor, heat stress, and remote locations make rapid cardiac response critical.
Sports Facilities
Stadiums, arenas, sports complexes, and athletic fields
Athletes of all ages face cardiac risks during high-intensity activity.
Medical & Dental Offices
Doctor offices, dental practices, outpatient clinics
Even in medical settings, an AED provides immediate response before advanced care arrives.
Montana AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Montana Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
Budget-friendly reliability. Clear audio/visual prompts and rugged design for any environment.
View Details →Montana AED FAQs
Is an AED required in Montana?
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Where should I place an AED in my building?
Protect Your Montana Business Today
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