North Dakota, Billings County Electrician Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Billings County Building & Safety Divisions

Billings County issues building permits exclusively for properties located in its unincorporated areas. For properties within incorporated cities, the respective city's building department handles permit applications. The county's Building Department and Inspections can be reached at 701-260-5373 for general inquiries. The inspection scheduling line is 701-842-2120. Applications and inquiries can also be directed to the Zoning office at 495 4th Street, Medora, ND, or by mail to PO Box 247, Medora, ND 58645.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

In unincorporated Billings County, a Zoning Certificate and Building Permit are required for any new construction, relocation of structures, alteration of external building dimensions, change in property use, or land subdivision. The application process involves obtaining and completing a Building Permit Application and a Submittal Checklist. These should be submitted to the Billings County Zoning office. Plan reviews are conducted for code compliance, and the county has adopted the North Dakota State Building Code, which incorporates the 2012 International Building Code. Applications are generally valid for one year and may be renewed. It is advised to submit applications well in advance, as final review and approval can take up to six weeks or more, depending on whether a Zoning Board Public Hearing is required.

For electrical work specifically, nearly all projects beyond simple fixture replacement necessitate a permit to ensure code compliance and prevent fire hazards. To apply for an electrical permit, one can typically use the official Billings County online portal. Required documentation may include a single-line electrical diagram for panel upgrades or new service work, solar system designs for solar installations, and full electrical plans stamped by a licensed electrical engineer for commercial projects. Permit fees are usually based on the total amperage of the work or the number of new circuits.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within North Dakota, including Billings County.

North Dakota Electrician Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

North Dakota Electrician Building Codes and Legislation

North Dakota's building codes and legislation for electricians are primarily governed by the North Dakota State Electrical Board and are detailed within the North Dakota Administrative Code, Title 24.1, and the North Dakota Century Code, Title 43.

State Statutes and Codes Adopted

The North Dakota State Building Code, as of January 1, 2023, incorporates the 2021 International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), International Energy Conservation Code, and the International Existing Building Code.
Electrical wiring standards in North Dakota are based on the National Electrical Code (NEC). Specifically, the 2017 edition of the NEC and the 2015 edition of the Life Safety Code were in effect through December 31, 2020. Subsequently, the 2020 edition of the NEC and the 2018 edition of the Life Safety Code are used.
North Dakota Administrative Code, Article 24.1-06, specifically addresses Electrical Wiring Standards.
The North Dakota Century Code, Section 43-09-21, refers to the electrical code standards that must be maintained.

Primary State Board or Agencies

The State Electrical Board is the primary state agency responsible for setting and enforcing electrical codes and licensing electricians in North Dakota.
The Board consists of six members appointed by the governor, including representatives from various sectors of the electrical industry and a public member.
The Board is responsible for issuing licenses, establishing rules and regulations, and ensuring compliance with electrical codes.
The Department of Commerce, Division of Community Services, also plays a role in the administration of the State Building Code.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Billings County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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