Mont. Code § 85-2-315
Upon actual application of water to the proposed beneficial use within the time allowed, the permittee shall notify the department that the appropriation has been completed. The notification must contain a certified statement by a person with experience in the design, construction, or operation of appropriation works describing how the appropriation was completed. The department shall review the certified statement and may then inspect the appropriation, and if it determines that the appropriation has been completed in substantial accordance with the permit, it shall issue the permittee a certificate of water right. The original of the certificate shall be sent to the permittee, and a duplicate shall be kept in the office of the department in Helena.
§ 85-2-315, MCA