Permit Requirements for Keene, North Dakota

For Plumbing projects in Keene, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of McKenzie County.

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Most jurisdictions require permits for Plumbing work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:

Within City Limits: The Keene Building Department typically oversees all local building, trade, and safety permits.
Unincorporated Areas: Properties located outside of official city boundaries are generally governed by the McKenzie County Building & Safety Division.
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General Plumbing Guidelines

Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.

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Because Keene is located within Mckenzie County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:

North Dakota, McKenzie County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

McKenzie County Plumbing Permit Requirements

McKenzie County, North Dakota, handles building permits for properties located in unincorporated areas of the county through its Building Department. A building permit is required for all new construction, additions, alterations, and changes of occupancy in unincorporated McKenzie County since July 9, 2012. The county's Building Department reviews building permit plans and conducts necessary inspections during construction.

For properties in unincorporated areas, the application process involves downloading the appropriate permit application packet from the county website or contacting the Building Department. Completed applications, along with required documentation, can be submitted via email to [email protected] or through the online portal. The county staff will review the application for completeness, and the permit process typically takes 10-15 business days upon receiving all required documents. Payment is not due until after the staff review is complete. Once approved, the permit must be kept on-site and available for inspection. A 4 ft x 8 ft sign with the project name and address is also required.

Plumbing work in North Dakota is regulated by the State Plumbing Board. While McKenzie County issues building permits for construction within its unincorporated areas, plumbing installations are subject to state licensing requirements. In cities with a population of less than one thousand and in all rural areas, a licensed journeyman plumber may engage in the business of installing plumbing. However, in locations with a public waterworks or sewerage system, a registered and licensed master plumber must be in charge of plumbing installation work. Inspections for ground plumbing and rough plumbing are conducted by the ND State Plumbing Inspector.

Resources to Learn More

McKenzie County Building Department: https://mckenziecountynd.gov/departments/building-department/
McKenzie County Online Permit Portal: https://county.mckenziecounty.net/
McKenzie County Building Permits and Applications: https://mckenziecountynd.gov/departments/building-department/building-permits-and-applications/

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

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