Unincorporated Dickey County

Road approach permits are required before constructing any new driveway or approach onto a county road. Utility permits are required for utility installations within the county right-of-way. Building permits for structural work depend on whether Dickey County has formally adopted and enforces the ND State Building Code. Confirm directly with the courthouse whether a structural building permit and code compliance inspection are required for your project.

Note: Agricultural structures may be exempt from certain permit and zoning requirements; consult the 2026 zoning ordinance or contact the courthouse. North Dakota does not impose a mandatory residential building code on counties or rural areas.

Building code

North Dakota does not mandate that counties enforce building codes. Dickey County has not been identified as a jurisdiction that has formally adopted and enforces the ND State Building Code for private residential construction in unincorporated areas.

Contractor requirements

Any job with a cost, value, or price exceeding $4,000 requires the contractor to hold a valid North Dakota contractor license from the Secretary of State. Electrical work requires a license from the ND State Electrical Board. Plumbing requires a license from the ND State Plumbing Board.

Source: Dickey County Courthouse — Auditor's Office / Board of County Commissioners ↗

1. 01
   Download applicable forms (Road Approach Permit, Utility Permit, Land Encroachment Notice) from dickeynd.com or pick up at the courthouse (309 2nd St N, Ellendale).
2. 02
   Submit completed application to the Auditor's Office at the courthouse in person or by mail.
3. 03
   For road approach or utility work along county roads, coordinate with the Highway Superintendent through (701) 349-3249.
4. 04
   The Board of County Commissioners reviews zoning-related matters. The Planning and Zoning Commission (nine members) holds public hearings, typically on the first and/or third Tuesday of each month.
5. 05
   Septic/onsite wastewater systems require a separate permit from Central Valley Health District before and after installation.

Typical processing time: Not published. Contact (701) 349-3249 for current timelines.

Source: Dickey County Courthouse — Auditor's Office / Board of County Commissioners ↗

Typical sequence: No county building inspection program for private residential construction has been identified. The ND State Electrical Board performs electrical inspections statewide; the ND State Plumbing Board oversees plumbing inspections. Septic system inspections are conducted by Central Valley Health District prior to backfill.