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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Grand Forks
Required for virtually all construction, alteration, or remodel work — including new construction, additions, remodeling, re-roofing/re-shingling, residing, replacing windows or doors, building a deck, pouring a new driveway or sidewalk, finishing a basement, and mechanical/plumbing/electrical work.
- Exempt Sheds 120 square feet or less in area (residential)
- Exempt Fences 6 feet and under in height
- Exempt Floor covering replacement
- Exempt Wall covering replacement
Note: The city requires permits for re-shingling, residing, replacing windows, building a deck, and pouring new driveways. Exemptions are narrower than in many jurisdictions. Confirm edge cases with the Department of Building Safety before proceeding.
- Building plans (residential and commercial)
- Site plan (commercial, must be pre-approved by Planning)
- Two sets of plans for commercial review
- Contractor license on file with city
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC) for commercial; 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) for one- and two-family residential; also 2021 IMC, IFGC, IECC, and IEBC as adopted in the North Dakota State Building Code effective January 1, 2023.
- Permit validity
- Permits are valid for 180 days, or as long as work is actively continuing.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders may estimate materials only (not labor) for valuation if doing work themselves.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must have a current North Dakota state contractor license on file with the City of Grand Forks before applying for permits online.
Source: Department of Building Safety, City of Grand Forks ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Commercial plan review approximately two weeks; residential typically faster.
- 01 Determine whether work requires a permit.
- 02 For commercial projects: submit a site plan to the City Planning Department for approval first.
- 03 Prepare two sets of plans for commercial review; residential plans per department requirements.
- 04 Apply online via Tyler Technologies NWerpSuite or in person at Room 225, City Hall, 255 N. 4th Street.
- 05 Ensure contractor has a current North Dakota state contractor license on file with the city before online portal access.
- 06 Pay permit fee at submission based on estimated construction valuation.
- 07 For commercial projects: plan review by building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, fire, and health inspectors takes approximately two weeks.
- 08 Once approved, permit is issued. Work must begin and proceed under the permit.
- 09 Schedule required inspections at each stage.
- 10 Receive final inspection and certificate of occupancy (commercial) or final approval (residential).
Typical processing time: Commercial plan review approximately two weeks; residential typically faster.
Source: Department of Building Safety, City of Grand Forks ↗
Fee schedule
Grand Forks building permit fees
Cash and checks accepted at the office. Online payment available via Tyler Technologies portal.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (701) 746-2631 (phone)
- Tyler Technologies portal (online)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, standard business hours.
Typical sequence: Residential: footing/foundation inspection; framing inspection; rough mechanical/plumbing/electrical; insulation; final inspection. Commercial: plan review by building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, fire, and health inspectors; then construction-phase inspections at required stages; final and certificate of occupancy.
Source: Department of Building Safety, City of Grand Forks ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Grand Forks permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Grand Forks, ND? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Grand Forks, ND? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Grand Forks, ND? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Grand Forks, ND? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Grand Forks, ND? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Grand Forks, ND? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Department of Building Safety, City of Grand Forks before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.