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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Dickinson
A building permit is required for all construction within the City of Dickinson.
- Exempt Single-family residential dwellings exempt from sprinkler requirements.
- Exempt Additions/alterations to existing structures have specific code compliance requirements.
Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and planning requirements. Verify with Development Services before proceeding.
- Completed Building Permit Application Form
- Architectural/engineering plans for commercial and multi-family residential
- Site plans for new development or major alterations
- Project and property information
- Licensed contractor documentation for electrical and plumbing work
- Stormwater management plan for projects disturbing 1 acre or more
- Onsite wastewater permit from North Dakota DEQ (if applicable)
- Building code
- North Dakota State Building Code (2023 version, updated January 1, 2026); Chapter 39 Zoning Ordinance
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder exemptions available for certain residential projects (verify with city).
- Contractor requirements
- Licensed contractors required for electrical and plumbing work per North Dakota State licensing.
Source: City of Dickinson Development Services - Buildings & Codes Division ↗
Application process
Typical processing: 2-5 business days typical for plan review.
- 01 Access online Application Portal or obtain paper application from Development Services.
- 02 Complete Building Permit Application Form with project details.
- 03 Prepare site plans and building specifications.
- 04 Submit to City of Dickinson Development Services.
- 05 Plan review conducted (2-5 business days typical).
- 06 Building permit issued upon approval.
- 07 Inspections conducted at required phases.
- 08 Final inspection and approval for occupancy.
Typical processing time: 2-5 business days typical for plan review.
Source: City of Dickinson Development Services - Buildings & Codes Division ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (701) 456-7815 (phone)
- Application Portal (online)
- Inspection hours
- Standard business hours. Contact for specific times.
Typical sequence: Footing/foundation, framing, mechanical/electrical/plumbing, final inspection, and special inspections as needed (structural, fire-rated assemblies).
Source: City of Dickinson Development Services - Buildings & Codes Division ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Dickinson permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Dickinson, ND? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Dickinson, ND? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Dickinson, ND? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Dickinson, ND? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Dickinson, ND? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Dickinson Development Services - Buildings & Codes Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.