North Dakota, Barnes County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Barnes County Building & Safety Division
In Barnes County, North Dakota, building permits and development code permits are handled by the Planning & Zoning Administrator, who reports to the Board of County Commissioners. This office is responsible for preparing these permits according to the Barnes County Planning & Zoning Development Code.
Unincorporated Areas
The Barnes County Development Code applies to all areas within Barnes County, North Dakota, except for areas within the civil and extraterritorial zoning boundaries of organized cities and townships that have chosen to enact their own zoning authority.
Demolition Work During Remodels
Demolition work during a remodel may require a permit. In Valley City, an application for a demolition permit is required, which includes details about the building to be removed and adherence to city ordinances and codes. Specific conditions may apply, such as asbestos inspections and proper disconnection of utilities. North Dakota generally requires permits for demolition of structures.
Converting Non-Living Spaces to Habitable Areas
A building permit is required to convert attics, basements, or garages into habitable living spaces. Depending on the scope of work, additional electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits may also be necessary.
- Ceiling Height: Living spaces in basements must have a minimum ceiling height of 6'8".
- Egress: Basements with living space and all sleeping rooms must have at least one egress window or exterior door for emergency escape.
- Door Size: Doors leading into converted spaces must be at least 6'2" high and 30 inches wide.
- Garage Conversions: If converting a garage, you may need to demonstrate how a required on-site parking space will be provided. Detached garages may also need to meet setback requirements or require a fire wall if close to a property line.
- Attic Conversions: The existing attic floor structure must be strong enough to support the weight of occupants and furniture. Raising the roof may be subject to height regulations.
Resources to Learn More
Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within North Dakota, including Barnes County.
North Dakota Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
North Dakota Building Codes for Remodelers and Residential Renovations
North Dakota has adopted the 2021 International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) as the foundation for its state building code. These codes were effective as of January 1, 2023. Updates to the 2024 versions of these codes have been adopted and will go into effect on January 1, 2026.
It's important to note that while the state establishes the building code, enforcement is primarily handled by local city and county jurisdictions. These local authorities, known as Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), may adopt additional regulations or amendments to the state code to suit local needs.
1. Adopted State Statutes and Codes
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC)
- 2021 International Residential Code (IRC)
- 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
- 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
- 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
- 2021 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
- 2020 National Electric Code (NEC) - effective January 1, 2021
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101 Life Safety Code 2018
The state building code does not automatically include the International Property Maintenance Code or the International Fire Code; these must be adopted separately by local jurisdictions.
2. Primary State Board or Agencies
The North Dakota Department of Commerce, Division of Community Services, is responsible for updating and amending the North Dakota State Building Code. This is done in cooperation with the State Building Code Advisory Committee, which consists of representatives from various building industry organizations and state agencies. The State Fire Marshal's office also plays a role in fire code adoption and enforcement.
3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines
The distinction between cosmetic remodels and structural alterations is generally determined by the scope of work and its impact on the building's structural integrity, safety, and occupancy. Cosmetic remodels, such as interior finishes, cabinet work, or replacing doors and windows without altering rough openings, typically do not require a building permit. However, projects involving the creation or elimination of rooms by adding or removing walls, finishing basements or lower levels, installing or removing doors/windows requiring structural work, replacing structural sheathing, re-siding, or any work altering structural components are considered significant renovations and usually require permits.
Converting attics or basements to habitable living spaces, or any work that alters structural components, would fall under structural alterations and necessitate adherence to the relevant sections of the IBC and IRC. Demolition guidelines are typically addressed at the local level, with specific requirements for permits, bonds, and site cleanup. For instance, a dangerous building that is significantly damaged (50% or more) or poses a fire hazard may be subject to demolition orders.
Resources to Learn More