North Dakota building departments

How permitting works in North Dakota

State code enforced only where locally adopted. North Dakota updates the State Building Code but does not enforce it. Each city, county, or township chooses whether to adopt it, so some rural areas have no building code enforcement, though contractors still need a state license for jobs over $4,000.

A county name is only a geographic starting point. Depending on the address, a city, town, borough, township, or county office may issue your permit. How to check who issues your permit.

North Dakota building codes and licensing

Residential code

2026 North Dakota State Building Code, based on the 2024 IRC with state amendments; effective January 1, 2026

Commercial code

2026 North Dakota State Building Code, based on the 2024 IBC with state amendments; effective January 1, 2026

Adopted by

North Dakota Department of Commerce, Community Services (opens in a new tab)

Outside city limits

The state does not enforce the building code. Each city, county or township chooses whether to adopt and enforce it, so where none has, there is no building code enforcement.

Contractor licensing

Anyone doing a job worth more than $4,000 needs a state contractor license. The license class depends on the largest job allowed: Class D up to $100,000, C up to $300,000, B up to $500,000, and A above that. Electricians are licensed by the State Electrical Board and plumbers by the State Plumbing Board. North Dakota Secretary of State – Contractor Licensing (opens in a new tab)

What is different in North Dakota

• Any city, county or township that enforces a building code must use the State Building Code, though it may amend it for local needs.
• The State Electrical Board has jurisdiction over all electrical installations statewide and runs electrical inspections through wiring certificates.
• A Secretary of State contractor license does not replace separate trade licenses. Electrical, plumbing and asbestos abatement work each need their own license.

North Dakota department guides

Browse North Dakota counties

Bold counties have at least one researched department guide.

Planning a project in North Dakota?

Start with what the model codes say, then confirm local rules with the department that serves your address.

• Do I Need a Permit for a Deck
• Do I Need a Permit for a Fence
• Do I Need a Permit for a Shed
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Roof
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Water Heater
• Do I Need a Permit for a Kitchen Remodel
• How Much Does a Building Permit Cost
• Building Inspection Stages Explained

Sources

1. North Dakota Department of Commerce, Community Services
2. ND Secretary of State – Contractors
3. North Dakota State Electrical Board

State facts checked October 21, 2026. Local amendments can change these rules; the department serving your address has the final word.