How much does a building permit cost in Alexander, ND?

Fees are calculated as: Fees based on project valuation; consult McKenzie County Building Department for specific amounts.

How do I apply for a building permit in Alexander, ND?

1. Download the appropriate permit application packet from the McKenzie County Building Department. 2. Complete all required application forms with project details and documentation. 3. Submit the completed packet via email to building@co.mckenzie.nd.us or through the online portal. 4. County staff reviews the application for completeness. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. 5. Upon receiving all required documents, the permit process takes approximately 10-15 business days. 6. Do not submit payment until staff review is complete. 7. Once approved, obtain the permit and pay all required fees. 8. Permit must be kept on-site at all times and available for inspection.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Alexander, ND?

Typical processing time is 10-15 business days.

What work is exempt from building permits in Alexander, ND?

The following work is generally exempt: Minor exemptions may exist for small accessory structures; confirm with Building Department. Note: All new construction is generally required to obtain a permit. Confirm exemption status with the McKenzie County Building Department before proceeding.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Alexander, ND?

Inspections can be scheduled via: building@co.mckenzie.nd.us, (701) 444-2533.

City Building Permits

Alexander, ND - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Alexander, North Dakota. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

North Dakota McKenzie County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All properties within the City of Alexander and surrounding Alexander jurisdiction.

Department: McKenzie County Building Department (Alexander Administration)
Address: 1300 12th St. SE, Suite 214, Watford City, ND 58854
Phone: (701) 444-2533
Email: building@co.mckenzie.nd.us
Website: https://mckenziecountynd.gov/departments/building-department/

Online Permit Portal

Open McKenzie County Online Portal

Platform: County Online Portal • Account required: No • Submission: In-person only

Additional resources:

Application Process

Download the appropriate permit application packet from the McKenzie County Building Department.
Complete all required application forms with project details and documentation.
Submit the completed packet via email to building@co.mckenzie.nd.us or through the online portal.
County staff reviews the application for completeness. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Upon receiving all required documents, the permit process takes approximately 10-15 business days.
Do not submit payment until staff review is complete.
Once approved, obtain the permit and pay all required fees.
Permit must be kept on-site at all times and available for inspection.

Typical processing time: 10-15 business days

Source: McKenzie County Building Department (Alexander Administration)

General Requirements

A building permit is required for all new construction, additions, alterations, and changes of occupancy in Alexander.

Required Documents

Completed permit application packet
Site plan and property survey
Construction plans and specifications
Project scope and cost estimate
Proof of property ownership or authorization

Permit validity: Permit validity period should be confirmed with the Building Department at (701) 444-2533.
Building code: North Dakota State Building Code (2024 version effective January 1, 2026), including International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), and International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
Owner-builder: Owner-builders must provide appropriate documentation and meet all code compliance requirements.
Contractor requirements: Contractors must comply with North Dakota state licensing requirements. For jobs exceeding $4,000, a State of North Dakota contractor license is required.

Fees

Permit fee formula: Fees based on project valuation; consult McKenzie County Building Department for specific amounts
Payment note: Fees are payable upon permit approval. Contact building@co.mckenzie.nd.us for the current fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the McKenzie County Building Department (Alexander Administration) to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

building@co.mckenzie.nd.us (email)
(701) 444-2533 (phone)

Inspection hours: Contact Building Department for office hours and inspection availability

Typical inspection sequence: Mandatory inspections include: (1) Footings after dug/formed with rebar placed, (2) Foundation after forms set and rebar placed, (3) Framing after complete but before siding/insulation/MEP, (4) Sheetrock after nailed/screwed but before taping, (5) Final inspection before occupancy.

Additional Resources

Building code: North Dakota State Building Code (2024 version effective January 1, 2026), including International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), and International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
Verify contractor license: North Dakota State Electrical Board License Lookup
North Dakota State Plumbing Board
North Dakota State Building Code
License lookup guide: North Dakota Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: North Dakota Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
North Dakota hub: North Dakota Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the McKenzie County Building Department (Alexander Administration) before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alexander Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Alexander, ND?: A building permit is required for all new construction, additions, alterations, and changes of occupancy in Alexander.
How much does a building permit cost in Alexander, ND?: Fees are calculated as: Fees based on project valuation; consult McKenzie County Building Department for specific amounts.
How do I apply for a building permit in Alexander, ND?: 1. Download the appropriate permit application packet from the McKenzie County Building Department. 2. Complete all required application forms with project details and documentation. 3. Submit the completed packet via email to building@co.mckenzie.nd.us or through the online portal. 4. County staff reviews the application for completeness. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. 5. Upon receiving all required documents, the permit process takes approximately 10-15 business days. 6. Do not submit payment until staff review is complete. 7. Once approved, obtain the permit and pay all required fees. 8. Permit must be kept on-site at all times and available for inspection.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Alexander, ND?: Typical processing time is 10-15 business days.
What work is exempt from building permits in Alexander, ND?: The following work is generally exempt: Minor exemptions may exist for small accessory structures; confirm with Building Department. Note: All new construction is generally required to obtain a permit. Confirm exemption status with the McKenzie County Building Department before proceeding.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Alexander, ND?: Inspections can be scheduled via: building@co.mckenzie.nd.us, (701) 444-2533.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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