Looking to pull a building permit in North Dakota? Whether you're scaling into Fargo, Bismarck, or smaller towns, this guide gives construction professionals a foundational understanding of North Dakota building permits — what requires one, who issues them, cost structures, and process expectations. 

Permitting is largely local here, so we’re focusing on helping you navigate the variations across different cities and counties.

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Who issues building permits in North Dakota?

North Dakota does not have a centralized state permitting office. Instead, permits are handled at the city or county level.

Common local AHJs include:

• City of Fargo Inspections Department
• City of Bismarck Building Inspections Division
• Grand Forks Building Inspections
• McKenzie County Building Department
• Burleigh County (for unincorporated areas – check with county offices)

Some smaller municipalities may contract with third-party inspection services or share resources with nearby jurisdictions.

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North Dakota building permit requirements

Most structural and mechanical work in North Dakota requires a permit. 

Projects that typically need a permit include:

• New residential or commercial construction
• Additions or major renovations
• Electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work
• Demolition of structures
• Installation of accessory structures, like garages or decks
• Roofing and siding replacements (in some jurisdictions)

Some minor cosmetic improvements may be exempt, but always check with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for confirmation.

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North Dakota building permit costs

Permit costs depend on project scope and jurisdiction. Here are sample costs from key cities:

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Additional fees may include plan review, inspection, impact, or utility connection charges, especially for new developments.

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Unique considerations when permitting in North Dakota

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Energy efficiency compliance‍

Most cities in North Dakota require IECC 2021 compliance for new residential builds.

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Oil and gas regions‍

Counties like McKenzie may have specific development standards for temporary housing, infrastructure, or modular units due to oilfield-related construction.

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Floodplain or snow load zones‍

Projects in certain regions may need special foundation designs or site plans that address high snow loads or flood risk.

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Rural vs. urban permitting‍

Outside city limits, county-level permitting often has fewer layers of review but may require coordination with state health or water boards for septic or well systems.

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Tribal jurisdictions‍

Projects on reservation land may require permits through tribal governments, not cities or counties.

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How to get a building permit in North Dakota

While the exact steps vary slightly, here’s the typical process:

1. Confirm jurisdiction
   
   • Determine whether your project falls under city, county, or tribal authority.
2. Schedule a pre-application meeting 
   
   • This is only needed for expansive, complex projects.
3. Prepare documentation 
   
   • Construction plans, site plans, structural calculations, energy forms.
4. Submit application 
   
   • Many cities now accept digital submissions.
5. Undergo plan review 
   
   • Departments check zoning, code compliance, and engineering.
6. Receive permit and post on site 
   
   • Once fees are paid and review is complete.
7. Schedule inspections 
   
   • Inspections are required at major construction milestones (e.g., foundation, framing, MEP rough-ins, final).