Fargo, North Dakota Plumbing Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Fargo, North Dakota Plumbing Permit Ordinances
In Fargo, North Dakota, plumbing work is regulated by the City of Fargo Inspections Department, which acts as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). All plumbing installations, repairs, and alterations must comply with the North Dakota State Plumbing Code, which is based on the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). The 2018 North Dakota State Plumbing Code is currently in effect.
Permits are generally required for plumbing projects, including new construction, significant alterations, and system replacements. Minor repairs like fixing leaks or replacing faucets may be exempt, but replacing fixtures, running new water or drain lines, or installing/replacing water heaters typically require a permit. Any work touching major power, plumbing, or structural elements usually necessitates a permit.
Specific Local Zoning or Fee Nuances for Fargo
Fargo has specific fee schedules for plumbing and sanitary or storm sewer permits. For example, as of January 1, 2025, a water heating permit costs $35.00, and an inside plumbing permit with up to 5 fixtures has a minimum fee of $50.00, with each additional fixture costing $10.00. An original sanitary or storm sewer line into each building is $125.00. It's important to note that fees can be updated, and the most current fee schedule should be consulted.
A licensed contractor must be used for bringing sewer and water from the street to within 5 feet of the building. All underground work must be inspected and tested before being covered. Specific installation requirements include support intervals for plastic and copper lines, and testing procedures for vent and waste lines.
Double fees are charged for any work commenced without a permit, and in emergencies, a permit must be obtained within 48 hours of starting work.
Resources to Learn More
Because Fargo is located within Cass County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
North Dakota, Cass County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Plumbing Permit Requirements in Cass County, North Dakota
In Cass County, North Dakota, plumbing permit requirements are primarily governed by the North Dakota State Plumbing Board and individual township regulations, especially for properties in unincorporated areas. Cass County itself does not operate a county-wide building permit program for municipalities. Instead, for unincorporated areas, the authority rests with the 49 individual townships, each potentially having its own zoning ordinances and permit requirements.
The State Plumbing Board is responsible for establishing minimum standards for plumbing work across North Dakota. This includes adopting a state plumbing code, which is based on the Uniform Plumbing Code. Licensed plumbers are generally required for plumbing installations, with specific provisions for master plumbers and journeyman plumbers.
Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas
For properties located in unincorporated areas of Cass County, the permitting process is decentralized. Each of the 49 townships has the authority to set its own zoning ordinances and permit requirements.
- Jurisdiction: If a property is within a city's limits or its extraterritorial area, the respective city handles permits. If it's within a participating township, the township's Zoning Administrator is the point of contact.
- Township Ordinances: Townships may adopt the North Dakota State Building Code, but this is not mandatory. Some rural townships may not have building code enforcement. It is crucial to confirm specific requirements with the individual township.
- Building Permits: Building permits, which can include mechanical, electrical, and plumbing projects, are issued by Township Zoning Administrators for properties within their jurisdiction.
- State-Level Licensing: Regardless of location, electrical and plumbing work is handled by state boards.
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within North Dakota:
North Dakota Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Plumbing Codes and Legislation in North Dakota
The state of North Dakota regulates plumbing installations, licensing, and standards through the North Dakota State Plumbing Board. The state has adopted the 2018 edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), as the basis for the North Dakota Plumbing Code. This code includes specific state-level amendments and is codified under the North Dakota Administrative Code (specifically Article 62-03.1).
Regulatory Authority
The primary agency responsible for setting and enforcing these standards is the North Dakota State Plumbing Board. Established by state law (North Dakota Century Code Chapter 43-18), the Board is empowered to:
- Formulate and circulate the state plumbing code.
- Prescribe rules and regulations for the examination, regulation, and licensing of all classifications of plumbers (including apprentices, journeymen, and master plumbers).
- Supervise and inspect plumbing, drainage, sewage, and ventilation systems in public and private buildings.
- Administer licensing for water conditioning and sewer and water installers.
Resources to Learn More