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North Dakota Roofing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

North Dakota State Building Code and Legislation

The North Dakota State Building Code is established under North Dakota Century Code (N.D.C.C.) Chapter 54-21.3. As of January 1, 2023, the state building code consists of the 2021 editions of the 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), all as published by the International Code Council (ICC). These codes include state-specific amendments developed to meet local needs.

It is important to note that while the state mandates these codes, the adoption and enforcement of the building code are generally a local decision. Cities, townships, and counties that elect to enforce building codes must adopt the state building code, though they may further amend it to conform to local requirements. The state building code does not include the International Property Maintenance Code or the International Fire Code; these must be adopted separately by local jurisdictions if they wish to enforce them.

Primary State Agencies and Boards

The North Dakota Department of Commerce, specifically the Division of Community Services, is the state agency assigned the responsibility of adopting rules to implement, amend, and periodically update the state building code. This process is conducted in cooperation with the Building Code Advisory Committee, which consists of representatives from various professional organizations, including the North Dakota Building Officials Association, the American Institute of Architects, and other construction-related industry groups. The committee provides expertise and recommendations for code updates and amendments.

Resources to Learn More

Select a County Below to Learn More About That Jurisdiction in North Dakota

Permit rules operate within the above structure but can be nuanced at the county or municipal level. Select your local area below for specific ordinances, local codes, and direct links for your locality Building Department.