On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for West Fargo
Additions, decks, porches, finishing basements, replacing doors and windows of different sizes, interior renovations with structural modifications, demolition, accessory structures, swimming pools, residing, all HVAC systems, all gas appliances and equipment, wood stoves, use changes. Separate plumbing and electrical permits required for those trades.
- Exempt Painting (interior and exterior)
- Exempt Wallpaper installation
- Exempt Cabinet replacement and similar finish work
- Exempt Accessory buildings with floor area of 120 sq ft or less
- Exempt Concrete sidewalks and patios entirely on the property
- Exempt Insulation of an existing building where no structural changes are made
- Permit application form
- Project plans and drawings
- Stormwater management permit for new construction
- Asbestos information for applicable projects
- Gas meter clearance documentation as required
- Building code
- ICC (International Code Council) standards adopted. Per state mandate, adopts IBC, IRC, IMC, IFGC. State update to 2024 editions effective January 1, 2026.
- Permit validity
- Not specified on public pages; contact department
- Owner-builder
- Not specified; contact department
- Contractor requirements
- State contractor license required for jobs over $4,000 (ND Secretary of State). Electrical: ND State Electrical Board. Plumbing: ND State Plumbing Board.
Application process
Typical processing: Mechanical, reroofing, residing permits may issue same-day if time allows. Most building permits: up to 2 business days for complete applications. Incomplete applications take longer. Allow extra time during summer construction season.
- 01 Review project guidelines (deck, garage, addition, etc.) available on city website
- 02 Complete permit application (downloadable from city website or available at City Hall)
- 03 Submit application online via iWorQ portal or in person at City Hall (2515 6th Street E)
- 04 Plan review by Building and Inspections Division
- 05 Pay permit fee
- 06 Permit issued; post at job site
- 07 Contact Building Department to schedule required inspections (call 701-515-5380)
- 08 Work proceeds between inspections; do not cover work before inspection sign-off
- 09 Final inspection and project closeout
Typical processing time: Mechanical, reroofing, residing permits may issue same-day if time allows. Most building permits: up to 2 business days for complete applications. Incomplete applications take longer. Allow extra time during summer construction season.
Source: Building and Inspections Division, City of West Fargo ↗
Fee schedule
West Fargo building permit fees
In person at City Hall or online through iWorQ portal; fire permit fees (separate) are $70-$140/year for operational permits and $100 + percentage of project cost for construction fire permits
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 701-515-5380 (7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon-Fri) (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Typical sequence: Footing, framing, insulation, rough-in mechanical/plumbing/electrical, final inspection. Framing and final inspection checklists available on city website.
Frequently asked
Common questions about West Fargo permits
01 Do I need a building permit in West Fargo, ND? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in West Fargo, ND? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in West Fargo, ND? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in West Fargo, ND? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in West Fargo, ND? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in West Fargo, ND? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building and Inspections Division, City of West Fargo before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.