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§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Ward County
Building permits required for all new structures and significant alterations in unincorporated Ward County.
Temporary structures (sheds, etc.)
Minor cosmetic improvements (subject to verification)
- Exempt Temporary structures (sheds, etc.)
- Exempt Minor cosmetic improvements (subject to verification)
Note: Verify specific projects with Aaron Rust (701-857-6429) before proceeding.
- Building code
- International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) as adopted by North Dakota (effective January 1, 2023). Local amendments per Ward County Zoning Ordinance (September 2019).
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold valid state license for jobs over $2,000. State-licensed contractors required for electrical and plumbing work.
§ 03
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Obtain Building Permit Application and Building Permit Check List from the Tax Equalization Office
- 02 Complete all required documentation
- 03 Submit application to Aaron Rust at the Tax Equalization Office or by mail
- 04 Contact Aaron Rust to schedule inspections by appointment
§ 04
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- 701-857-6429 (phone)
- aaron.rust@wardnd.com (email)
§ 05
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Ward County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Ward County, ND? ▸
Building permits required for all new structures and significant alterations in unincorporated Ward County.
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Ward County, ND? ▸
To apply for a building permit in unincorporated Ward County, ND, follow these steps: 1. Obtain Building Permit Application and Building Permit Check List from the Tax Equalization Office 2. Complete all required documentation 3. Submit application to Aaron Rust at the Tax Equalization Office or by mail 4. Contact Aaron Rust to schedule inspections by appointment
03 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Ward County, ND? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in unincorporated Ward County, ND. The following work is generally exempt: Temporary structures (sheds, etc.); Minor cosmetic improvements (subject to verification). Note: Verify specific projects with Aaron Rust (701-857-6429) before proceeding. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Ward County, ND? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Ward County, ND via: 701-857-6429, aaron.rust@wardnd.com.
last verified April 2026
source Tax Equalization Office, Building Inspector ↗
entry id permits/north-dakota/ward/unincorporated
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Tax Equalization Office, Building Inspector before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.