Bolthole Index

Morton County, North Dakota

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Morton County, North Dakota

54Index Score / 100
#15 of 53 in North Dakota

A building permit is required before constructing a home in unincorporated Morton County, North Dakota.1 The county also enforces zoning and the North Dakota State Building Code, while Western Plains Public Health handles onsite septic permits.234 Start with Planning and Zoning because access, addressing, septic and floodplain requirements can affect whether an application is ready.5

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a home in unincorporated areas1
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas2
Septic
Permit through Western Plains Public Health6
RV living
RV camps are regulated; private long-term occupancy is unconfirmed7
Tiny home
No special rule confirmed; ordinary zoning and code rules apply38
Owner-builder
No permit exemption confirmed; state property-tax break only if the county approved it910
Driveway access
Approach permit required for a new residence outside city limits11
Private well
Water permit required only above 12.5 acre-feet per year12

Who to call

Building permits

Morton County Building Inspector Department

Building permits, inspections, fee information and certificates of occupancy

(701) 667-3325

mortoncountytax@mortonnd.gov

210 2nd Ave NW, Mandan ND 58554

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Morton County Planning and Zoning Department

County zoning, subdivision review and floodplain administration outside incorporated cities and townships

701-667-3361

Natalie.Pierce@mortonnd.gov

2916 37th St NW, Mandan ND 58554

Septic permits

Western Plains Public Health

Onsite septic permit applications and environmental-health questions for Morton County

701.667.3370

eh@westernplainsph.org

403 Burlington St SE, Mandan, ND 58554

Online permits →

Roads & driveways

Morton County Highway Department

Approach permits and site review for access to county roads

701-667-7969

Nate.Krikorian@mortonnd.gov

2916 37th St. NW, Mandan, ND 58554

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Morton County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Morton County, North Dakota?

Yes. Morton County requires a permit for construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, occupancy changes and regulated building systems in its unincorporated jurisdiction.1 The county has adopted the current North Dakota State Building Code without local amendments; city extraterritorial areas are excluded.13

Permitted work must remain accessible and exposed for inspection until approved.9 A covered building may not be used or occupied until the building official issues a certificate of occupancy.14 Call the Building Inspector for the current building-permit fee.15

A farm or ranch building can qualify for an agricultural exemption when it serves farming or ranching on at least 150 contiguous acres under common ownership or operation.16 A residence or other building used by the public still needs building and occupancy permits regardless of farm acreage.16 Morton County has not stated a general owner-builder exemption, so self-performing the work should not be treated as a way around permits or inspections; confirm contractor and inspection requirements with the Building Inspector.17

North Dakota also lets a county exempt a person who builds their own new single-family home from property tax on the improvements, but only if the county commission passes a resolution allowing it.10 We could not confirm that Morton County has passed one, so ask the Board of County Commissioners before counting on the tax break.10

Who issues Morton County building permits, and how do you reach them?

The Morton County Building Inspector Department handles building permits, inspections and certificates of occupancy.17 Call that office for the current building-permit fee, which is not posted with the county’s published land-use fees.15

Planning and Zoning is the separate stop for zoning districts, subdivision, setbacks and floodplain questions on unincorporated land.8 The department administers county zoning and subdivision regulations and handles floodplain administration outside incorporated cities and townships.18 Dividing land can require county review, with the Planning and Zoning Commission making a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.19

Jurisdiction changes by location. Morton County zoning applies in unincorporated areas, but incorporated cities and townships may have their own authority, including city extraterritorial areas.20 Confirm the parcel’s jurisdiction with Planning and Zoning before relying on a county form or map.18 Wherever a city or township takes over building permits or zoning, septic permits for the property still come from Western Plains Public Health.21

Does Morton County have zoning?

Yes. The Morton County Land Use Code governs zoning, subdivision, setbacks, approaches, floodplains and related development in unincorporated areas, except city extraterritorial areas.22 The county zoning map establishes the regulatory districts and boundaries for certain unincorporated areas.2324

Lot size is district- and utility-specific. In the Agricultural district, the minimum is 35 acres with or without public water and sewer; most unsewered districts require 65,000 or 80,000 square feet, while the unsewered Conservation and Open Space district lists no minimum.25 Those figures do not replace septic, access, floodplain, subdivision or use-specific requirements.25 Setbacks vary by district, utility service, lot status, structure type and road class; when dimensional and roadway setbacks differ, the greater one controls.26 Roadway setbacks are measured from the road centerline: 250 feet for interstates, 135 feet for arterials, 110 feet for rural collectors and 93 feet for section-line roads.26 Building height is governed through the adopted state code plus county zoning and overlays.27

We could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling floor area or a special tiny-home category; ask Planning and Zoning how the proposed dwelling fits the parcel’s district.18 Accessory dwellings may be allowed in Agricultural and Residential districts after Zoning Administrator review, and in the Limited Industrial district with a special-use permit.28 In the Agricultural district, a lot of at least 35 acres may have one accessory dwelling and a lot of at least 70 acres may have up to three.28

How do septic permits work in Morton County?

Western Plains Public Health handles onsite septic permits for Morton County.4 A rural-home applicant needs an assigned emergency address before applying for septic approval, and the septic permit must be in hand before the county will accept the building-permit application.5

A structure with plumbing must discharge to a community, in-ground or mound septic system permitted by the local health district.6 A store-and-pump-only system is allowed only when health-district staff recommend it as the best or only alternative, so off-grid ownership does not create a sanitation exemption.29 Morton County’s materials do not separately confirm the inspection sequence; ask Western Plains Public Health about site evaluation, design review and inspections before fixing the house site.30

Only about 14.6% of mapped county soils avoid a “very limited” rating for a conventional septic drain field.31 That countywide soil measure does not decide an individual parcel, but it makes early site evaluation particularly useful.31

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Morton County?

We could not confirm a blanket rule for long-term occupancy of one RV on private land in Morton County, so ask Planning and Zoning about the parcel and proposed duration.18 The county regulates RV camps through special-use permits in eligible districts.7 Primitive campgrounds are subject to district limits and site-plan review, while temporary-use applications must be filed at least 10 days before the use begins.32 Those campground standards do not answer whether one owner may live in an RV indefinitely.7

We could not confirm a distinct Morton County tiny-home rule, so ask the Building Inspector and Planning and Zoning how ordinary zoning, building, sanitation and occupancy requirements apply.1718 Manufactured housing has additional limits: no mobile or modular home made before 1980 may be placed, and a manufactured-home park needs at least 20 acres plus central utilities.33

Building a home in Morton County: what are the steps?

Morton County’s rural-development sequence links zoning, utilities, access, addressing, septic and the building permit.5

  1. Ask Planning and Zoning to confirm jurisdiction, district, lot entitlement, setbacks and any subdivision or floodplain approval.81934
  2. Ask utility providers whether service can be extended and what extension will cost.35
  3. Obtain the approach permit and emergency address; a new residential project needs access meeting Highway Department engineering standards.36
  4. Apply to Western Plains Public Health for the septic permit using the assigned emergency address.5
  5. Apply to the Building Inspector for the building permit and current fee; separate county land-use fees may apply, including $200 for a floodplain development permit, $50 for a temporary-use permit and $200 for a variance.137
  6. Keep permitted work accessible for inspection and obtain the certificate of occupancy before use.914

What should you check before buying land in Morton County?

Start with jurisdiction and zoning: Morton County regulates unincorporated land, while cities, townships and city extraterritorial areas may follow different authorities.20 Check the county GIS for the zoning district and flood information, then confirm the applicable lot size, setbacks and use with Planning and Zoning.2318

Verify legal access before treating an existing driveway as build-ready, and confirm utility availability and extension cost directly with providers.3635 Arrange septic evaluation early because only about 14.6% of mapped soils avoid severe conventional drain-field limitations.31 A special flood-hazard site needs a floodplain development permit before work begins.34

A North Dakota water-appropriation permit is required when a private well will draw more than 12.5 acre-feet, or 4,073,000 gallons, per year; a well below that annual threshold does not need the permit.12 Well construction and pump installation still fall under state rules and contractor licensing.12 The county’s median property-tax bill is about $2,562 per year, but a parcel-specific estimate should come from the assessed value and applicable levies.38

Watch-outs

  • A driveway already on the land does not eliminate access review for a new residential project; obtain the approach permit and emergency address before the septic and building applications.365
  • Development in a county-administered special flood-hazard area needs a floodplain permit before work begins.34
  • Long-term occupancy of a single RV, a special tiny-home rule and an owner-builder exemption could not be confirmed; ask Planning and Zoning and the Building Inspector before relying on any of them.1817

Sources

  1. Building Inspector, quoted and re-checked
  2. Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  3. Morton County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  4. Onsite Septic System Program, quoted and re-checked
  5. Building a Home in Morton County, quoted and re-checked
  6. mortonnd.govoffice.com, quoted and re-checked
  7. Morton County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  8. Land Use Code - Morton County, North Dakota, quoted and re-checked
  9. Building Permits and Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  10. Property Tax Exemption for Builders of Certain New Single Family Residential Properties, quoted and re-checked
  11. Morton County Rural Development Guide, quoted and re-checked
  12. Private Well Owner’s Guide: Well Installation, quoted and re-checked
  13. Morton County Land Use Code, amended September 10, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Permits and Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  15. Morton County Land Use Code, amended September 10, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  16. Morton County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  17. Morton County Building Inspector Department (mortonnd.gov)
  18. Morton County Planning and Zoning Department (mortonnd.gov)
  19. Planning and Zoning Forms, quoted and re-checked
  20. Morton County Planning and Zoning Department, quoted and re-checked
  21. Building a Home in Morton County, quoted and re-checked
  22. Land Use Code - Morton County, North Dakota, quoted and re-checked
  23. Morton County Land Use Code, amended September 10, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  24. Morton County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  25. Morton County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  26. Morton County Land Use Code, amended September 10, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  27. Morton County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  28. Morton County Land Use Code, amended September 10, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  29. mortonnd.govoffice.com, quoted and re-checked
  30. Western Plains Public Health (westernplainsph.org)
  31. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Morton County Land Use Code, amended September 10, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  33. Morton County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  34. Morton County Land Use Code, amended September 10, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  35. Building a Home in Morton County, quoted and re-checked
  36. Building a Home in Morton County, quoted and re-checked
  37. Building Inspector, quoted and re-checked
  38. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 5 of its 6 neighbors, Morton County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleMorton CountyGrant CountyOliver CountySioux CountyBurleigh CountyEmmons CountyMercer County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredNot requiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesNoYesYesYes
Septic permitsWestern Plains Public HealthWestern Plains Public HealthWestern Plains Public HealthCounty local public health unitCounty Building/Planning/Zoning Dept.ND DEQWestern Plains Public Health

County locator

Morton County in North Dakota

54
County map
Morton County highlighted among the North Dakota counties · colored by Index score

How Morton County scores

Seclusion83100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency24100% ev.
Admin Boringness4390% ev.
Durability56100% ev.
Property Autonomy73100% ev.
Carry Cost75100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$327kTypical home
1%Property tax
$1,865Land / acre
18"Annual rain
7.2% of yrsSevere drought
7.1 / yr (+5.9)Mid-century 100°F days
21 daysMid-century dry spell
1.21" (+6.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.46×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,175Home insurance / yr
1.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.96%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
385People within 30 min
185,314People within 2 hr
2,547Radius comparison (15 mi)
17.6People / sq mi
0.9%Federal land
83.8%Land at 15% slope or less
14.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
177,805 acWorkable land screen
4.5%Wooded land
47.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Morton County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Not yet researched: Almont · Captain's Landing Township · Flasher · Glen Ullin · Hebron · New Salem

Answers from the rulebook for Morton County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Morton County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated systems in unincorporated areas.

    • A permit is not required for qualifying farm or ranch buildings under the agricultural exemption, but buildings used for human habitation or by the public require permits regardless of farm acreage.
    • Extraterritorial city areas are excluded.
    “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolished, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the Building Inspector and obtain the required permit (IBC 105.1).”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Buildings and structures in unincorporated Morton County outside city extraterritorial areas.

    • The county adopts the current North Dakota State Building Code without county amendments.
    • The state code includes the IBC, IRC, IMC, and IFGC.
    • Agricultural buildings may qualify for the separate agricultural permit exemption, but human-habitation and public-use buildings do not.
    “The North Dakota State Building Code is not amended for application within Morton County in any way by this article.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — North Dakota State Building Code in unincorporated Morton County.
      “The North Dakota State Building Code, in its most current version, is adopted by the Board of County Commissioners and enforced in Morton County.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction or work for which a building permit is required.

    • The work must remain accessible and exposed for inspection until approved.
    • Agricultural-exempt buildings may be outside the permit regime unless used for human habitation or by the public.
    “Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the Building Inspector and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purpose until approved (IBC 110.1).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction or work for which a county building permit is required.
      “Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the Building Inspector”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use, occupancy, or change of occupancy of buildings or structures subject to the county building code.

    • The agricultural exemption expressly requires a building permit and occupancy permit for buildings used for human habitation or by the public regardless of farm acreage.
    • The certificate does not approve violations of the code or other ordinances.
    “A building or structure shall not be used or occupied, and a change of occupancy of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefore as provided herein.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Use or occupancy of a building and changes of occupancy under county building-code jurisdiction.
      “A building or structure shall not be used or occupied, and a change of occupancy of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefore as provided herein.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning in unincorporated areas of Morton County.

    • The code does not apply in extraterritorial areas of cities as defined in Section 2-010(d).
    • The Land Use Code was amended September 10, 2026.
    “The Morton County Land Use Code governs zoning [...] in the unincorporated areas of the county.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning regulation in unincorporated areas of Morton County.
      “land use and development in the unincorporated areas of the county.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Morton County zoning in unincorporated areas.
      “The Morton County Land Use Code governs zoning, subdivision, setbacks and approaches, area regulations, floodplains, stormwater management, automobile parking, and other matters relating to land use and development in the unincorporated areas of the county.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of county zoning and incorporated-city/township jurisdiction within Morton County; the county does not administer every local ordinance.

    • County zoning applies in unincorporated areas; incorporated cities and townships may have separate jurisdiction, including extraterritorial areas.
    “For incorporated cities—Flasher, Hebron, and New Salem—permits are handled by each city individually; please contact the city auditor for assistance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning, subdivision, setbacks, and related land-use regulation in unincorporated areas of Morton County.
      “The Morton County Land Use Code governs zoning, subdivision, setbacks and approaches, area regulations”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning districts and boundaries in unincorporated Morton County.

    • The code establishes A, E, R, RM, C, CR, I, IL, PI, PR, and O districts.
    • The regulatory zoning map is maintained in the county GIS and made publicly available through Planning and Zoning.
    • Extraterritorial areas of cities are not assigned a county zoning district on the county zoning map.
    “established for certain unincorporated areas of Morton County”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning districts established by the Morton County Land Use Code for certain unincorporated areas.
      “The location and boundaries of the zoning districts hereby established under the authority of this Morton County Land Use Code are shown on the Morton County Zoning Map, which is made a part of this section.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Certain unincorporated areas of Morton County.
      “The following zoning districts are hereby established for certain unincorporated areas of Morton County:”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Minimum lot or tract area in the zoning districts established by the Morton County Land Use Code for unincorporated areas.

    • The required area depends on zoning district.
    • The table has separate standards for lots or tracts served by public water and sanitary sewer and those not served by public water and sanitary sewer.
    • For lots not served by public water and sanitary sewer, the Conservation and Open Space (O) District is listed as having no minimum lot/tract area.
    • Other subdivision, septic, floodplain, access, and applicable use-specific requirements may also apply.

    minimum lot/tract area for lots served by public water and sanitary sewer by district: A: 35 acres; E: NA; R & RM: 7,200 sq ft; C: 7,200 sq ft; CR: NA; I: 65,000 sq ft; IL: 65,000 sq ft; PI: 7,200 sq ft; PR: 7,200 sq ft; O: NA · minimum lot/tract area for lots not served by public water and sanitary sewer by district: A: 35 acres; E: 65,000 sq ft; R & RM: 65,000 sq ft; C: 80,000 sq ft; CR: 65,000 sq ft; I: 80,000 sq ft; IL: 65,000 sq ft; PI: 65,000 sq ft; PR: 65,000 sq ft; O: no minimum

    “Minimum Lot/Tract Area (Sq Ft) 35 acre 65,000 65,000 80,000 65,000 80,000 65,000 65,000 65,000 No minimum”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings and structures in county zoning districts and along county roadways.

    • The greater of the Section 2-210 dimensional setback and roadway setback applies.
    • Roadway setbacks vary by road classification.

    interstate setback from centerline: 250 ft · arterial setback from centerline: 135 ft · rural collector setback from centerline: 110 ft · internal subdivision road setback from centerline: 80 ft

    “Where the setbacks required by the Section 2-210 Dimensional Table and the Section 2-210(i) Roadway Setback Table differ, whichever setback is greater applies.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Building, structure, and roadway setbacks in Morton County zoning districts.
      “Where the setbacks required by the Section 2-210 Dimensional Table and the Section 2-210(i) Roadway Setback Table differ, whichever setback is greater applies.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Building height regulated through the adopted North Dakota State Building Code and county zoning provisions.

    • The county code adopts the state building code for building height and applies zoning-district rules and any applicable overlays.
    “The erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, removal, demolition, conversion, occupancy, equipment, uses, height, area and maintenance of buildings or structures in Morton County shall meet with the provisions of the rules and regulations of the North Dakota State Building Code”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational-vehicle occupancy in a county-regulated recreational vehicle camp.

    • A recreational vehicle camp may be permitted only in A, C, PR, or I districts with a special use permit.
    • Minimum premises area is 90,000 square feet; each trailer area is at least 2,000 square feet; each trailer lane is at least 20 feet wide and all-weather surfaced.
    • Additional separation, lighting, fencing, and water, sewage, laundry, and fire-protection approvals apply.

    minimum camp area: >= 90000 sq ft · minimum area per trailer: >= 2000 sq ft · minimum trailer lane width: >= 20 ft

    “Permitted Districts: A recreational vehicle camp may be permitted in an Agricultural (A) District with a special use permit, in a Commercial (C) District with a special use permit, in a Parks and Recreation (PR) District with a special use permit, and in an Industrial (I) District with a special use permit, subject to additional standards in this section.”
  • Camping on your landAllowed (with conditions)

    Primitive campgrounds and temporary camping uses in unincorporated Morton County.

    • Primitive campgrounds are subject to district limitations and site-plan review by the Zoning Administrator.
    • Water, sewage, and fire-protection provisions require approval by the appropriate authorities.
    • Temporary-use permits require application at least 10 days before initiation, payment of the required fee, and remediation by the specified date.

    temporary-use application lead time: >= 10 days · temporary-use permit fee: 50 USD

    “Any party wishing to develop a primitive campsite must submit a site plan to the Zoning Administrator for review.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Primitive campground use in unincorporated Morton County.
      “Standards: a primitive campground shall abide by the following standards:”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured-home parks and manufactured residential structures in unincorporated Morton County.

    • Manufactured-home parks require a special-use permit in A, R, or RM districts and substantial compliance with long-form subdivision standards.
    • A manufactured-home park must cover at least 20 acres.
    • Homes in parks require central water and sewer and central electricity.
    • No mobile or modular home manufactured before January 1, 1980 may be placed on a lot or tract.

    minimum manufactured-home-park area: >= 20 acres · manufactured-home construction cutoff: >= 1980-01-01 (No mobile or modular home manufactured prior to this date may be placed on a lot or tract.)

    “A manufactured home park may be permitted in an Agricultural (A) District with a special use permit or in a Residential (R) District or Residential Multifamily (RM) District with a special use permit, subject to additional standards in this section.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured-home occupancy, especially manufactured-home parks, in unincorporated Morton County.
      “No mobile or modular home manufactured prior to January 1, 1980 shall be allowed to be placed on any lot or tract in Morton County.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units in A, R, and IL districts.

    • ADUs may be permitted in A and R districts after Zoning Administrator review and approval.
    • ADUs in IL require a special-use permit.
    • A-district lots of at least 35 acres may have one ADU; lots of at least 70 acres may have up to three ADUs.
    • R-district lots must have been created through short- or long-form subdivision and conform to the dimensional table.
    • R-district ADUs are not allowed where significant flood risk exists.
    • No more than one ADU is allowed per lot or tract in the R district.

    A-district minimum area for one ADU: >= 35 acres · A-district minimum area for up to three ADUs: >= 70 acres

    “An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) may be permitted in an Agricultural (A) District and the Residential (R) District, upon review and approval of the Zoning Administrator and in a Limited Industrial (IL) District with a special use permit, subject to the additional standards to be applied within each district.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units in county zoning districts.
      “No more than one (1) accessory dwelling unit is allowed per lot or tract.”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Onsite septic systems serving structures with plumbing in Morton County.

    • The county code requires permission by the local health district and compliance with current health-district standards.
    • The county rural-home page directs applicants to Western Plains Public Health.
    “Services Provided In Grant, Mercer, Morton, Oliver and Sioux Counties”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Onsite septic systems serving Morton County through Western Plains Public Health, with state licensing and regulatory requirements.
      “Services Provided In Grant, Mercer, Morton, Oliver and Sioux Counties”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Structures containing plumbing facilities in county land-use jurisdiction.

    • The system must be a community septic, in-ground septic, or mound septic system permitted by the local health district.
    • Store-and-pump-only systems are not allowed except when local health-district staff recommend them as the best or only alternative.
    “all structures that contain plumbing facilities must discharge into a community septic system, an in-ground septic system, or a mound septic system, permitted by the local health district and compliant with current health district standards.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New rural-home development requiring onsite septic service.
      “Obtain a septic permit from Western Plains Public Health. (701) 667-3370. You will need the 911 address of the property in order to apply for a septic permit.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid sanitation for structures containing plumbing facilities.

    • A community septic, in-ground septic, or mound septic system permitted by the local health district is required.
    • A store-and-pump-only system is allowed only upon local-health-district staff recommendation that it is the best or only alternative.
    “Store-and-pump tank-only systems are not allowed, except upon the recommendation of local health district staff as being the best, or only, alternative for the subject property.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Sanitation systems for structures with plumbing facilities.
      “Store-and-pump tank-only systems are not allowed, except upon the recommendation of local health district staff as being the best, or only, alternative for the subject property.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Structures containing plumbing facilities in unincorporated Morton County.

    • Plumbing structures must use community septic, in-ground septic, or mound septic permitted by the local health district.
    • Store-and-pump tank-only systems are not allowed except when local health-district staff recommend them as the best or only alternative.
    • The county rural-home guidance directs applicants to check utility companies for service availability and extension costs.
    “In-ground Septic Requirement: all structures that contain plumbing facilities must discharge into a community septic system, an in-ground septic system, or a mound septic system”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Water, sewer, and utility arrangements for rural development.
      “Check with the utility companies to determine if your property lies in an area where service can be extended. In addition, ask for a summary of all the costs involved to extend services to the proposed property before you purchase the property or start developing building plans.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Building permits for farm or ranch buildings in Morton County.

    • The building must be located on a farm and used for farming or ranching.
    • The farm must contain at least 150 acres of contiguous agricultural land under common ownership or operation.
    • A building permit and occupancy permit are still required for human habitation or public use regardless of acreage.

    minimum contiguous agricultural land: >= 150 acres (Human-habitation and public-use buildings remain subject to permit requirements.)

    “no building permit shall be required for any building or structure located on a farm and used for farming or ranching purposes, as defined by this code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Farm or ranch buildings used for farming or ranching purposes.
      “For the purposes of this section, no farm shall be less than 150 acres of contiguous agricultural land under common ownership or operation. However, a building permit and occupancy permit shall be required for any building used for human habitation or by the public, regardless of the acreage of the farm.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Long-form, short-form, and other subdivision activity in unincorporated Morton County.

    • Subdivision applications use the county application and review procedures.
    • The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends and the Board of County Commissioners decides final subdivision approval.
    • Short-form subdivision fee is $200; long-form fees vary by lot count.

    short-form subdivision fee: 200 USD · long-form subdivision fee for 2-10 lots: 400 USD · long-form subdivision fee for 11-20 lots: 600 USD · long-form subdivision fee for 21 or more lots: 800 USD

    “make a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Long-form, short-form, and other subdivision processes in unincorporated Morton County.
      “The Department of Planning and Zoning is responsible for administration of the Morton County zoning and subdivision regulations, staff support to the Morton County Planning and Zoning Commission, floodplain administration (outside of incorporated cities and townships), and long-range planning for land use and development in Morton County.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Any new residence in Morton County outside city limits.

    • An approach permit is required even when an existing approach to a county road will be used.
    • The County Engineer inspects the proposed location for safety standards.
    • Upon approval, the Highway Department forwards information for generation of a 911 address.
    “Any new residence in Morton County, outside of city limits, requires an approach permit, even if it will be using an existing approach to a county road.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New residential construction and lots accessing county roads.
      “No building permit or occupancy permit for new construction of a principal use may be issued for any property prior to approval of an approach permit to that property.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development within areas of special flood hazard and other county-administered floodplain areas.

    • A floodplain development permit is required before construction or development begins in an area of special flood hazard.
    • The permit is issued in two phases: provisional issuance after eligibility review and final approval after all code provisions are satisfied.
    • The Zoning Administrator may require elevation, engineering, hydrologic, fill, floodway, and other supporting information.

    floodplain development permit fee: 200 USD

    “A floodplain development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard established in Section 3-010(d)(2).”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Development in county-administered floodplain areas outside incorporated cities and townships.
      “A floodplain development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard established in Section 3-010(d)(2).”
    • Required — Construction or development within a special flood hazard area administered by Morton County.
      “shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Land-use permits and approvals under the Morton County Land Use Code.

    • Fees are in addition to other license or regulatory charges, are generally non-refundable, and are cumulative for multiple approvals.
    • Building-permit fee information is not posted on the building page; applicants are directed to call the Building Inspector.

    floodplain development permit: 200 USD · temporary use permit: 50 USD · variance: 200 USD · administrative variance: 50 USD · special use permit: 0.001 x Total Project Cost or $300, whichever is greater USD

    “No permit or approval as required by this code shall be issued until the fee prescribed in the Section 10-100 Table shall have been paid in full, unless a particular action is explicitly exempted from this fee schedule under a different section of this code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Land-use permits and approvals administered under Morton County Land Use Code.
      “No permit or approval as required by this code shall be issued until the fee prescribed in the Section 10-100 Table shall have been paid in full, unless a particular action is explicitly exempted from this fee schedule under a different section of this code.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Residential construction and land-use approvals in unincorporated Morton County.

    • For a rural home, confirm construction entitlement, obtain an approach permit and 911 address, obtain a septic permit, then apply for the building permit.
    • Subdivision, rezoning, variance, floodplain, and temporary-use applications use county forms and may require additional review, hearings, fees, or approvals.
    “You must have the approach permit and septic permit in hand before you will be eligible to apply for a building permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County planning, zoning, subdivision, special-use, temporary-use, variance, and floodplain permit processes.
      “approach permit and septic permit in hand”

North Dakota rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An individual who builds that individual's own single-family residence and seeks the North Dakota property-tax exemption for builders of certain new single-family residential properties, including property outside incorporated cities in Morton County if Morton County has approved the exemption by resolution.

    • The exemption is discretionary and is available only if the applicable city or county governing body passes a resolution allowing it.
    • The county governing body has jurisdiction over property outside an incorporated city; each city has jurisdiction over property within that city.
    • The property must remain owned by the builder and remain unoccupied.
    • The exemption applies for the taxable year in which construction began and the next two taxable years, subject to the statute and resolution.
    • The governing body may limit or impose conditions, including limits on the time and dollar value, and may rescind or amend the resolution.
    • A governing body need pass only one resolution; after approval, it may not exercise discretion over qualifying recipients who meet the statute and resolution requirements.
    • A builder may claim the exemption for no more than ten properties in a taxable year within each approving jurisdiction; each property must be a single unit intended for occupancy by one family.
    • The guideline defines builder to include an individual who builds that individual's own residence.
    • All new single-family residential property constructed after passage of the resolution is eligible; condominiums and townhouses are included in the guideline's single-family residential property definition.
    • Outbuildings and improvements normally associated with residential living are included only when the residence qualifies; modular and other off-site-built residences are eligible, with the construction year determined by commencement of foundation construction.
    • General taxes and special-assessment installments may not be delinquent. If the current year's tax has not been paid, the assessor or county auditor may file an abatement application under N.D.C.C. § 57-23-05; an applicant may file under N.D.C.C. chapter 57-23 when an abatement would result in a refund or compromise.
    • The reviewed state source does not establish that Morton County has currently adopted the required resolution for unincorporated property.

    exemption duration: taxable year in which construction began and next two taxable years taxable years (subject to governing-body resolution and statutory conditions) · maximum properties per builder per taxable year: <= 10 properties (within each jurisdiction that has approved the exemption)

    “Whether or not to offer the exemption is at the discretion of the governing body. [...] “Builder” includes an individual who builds that individual’s own residence.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — North Dakota's discretionary property-tax exemption for certain new single-family residential properties, including property in unincorporated Morton County if Morton County has approved it by resolution.
      “The city or county governing body must pass a resolution indicating that the exemption will be allowed for the property located within its jurisdiction.”
    • Conditional — An individual who builds that individual’s own single-family residence and seeks the North Dakota builder property-tax exemption.
      “Whether or not to offer the exemption is at the discretion of the governing body. [...] “Builder” includes an individual who builds that individual’s own residence.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    City zoning regulations governing the size of residential buildings in North Dakota; the actual minimum, if any, is established by the applicable local zoning ordinance.

    • The authority is permissive and applies to governing bodies of cities that adopt zoning regulations.
    • The regulation is subject to North Dakota Century Code chapter 54-21.3.
    • A local board of adjustment may determine and vary application of the regulations under the local regulations.
    “For the purpose of promoting health, safety, morals, or the general welfare of the community, the governing body of any city may, subject to the provisions of chapter 54-21.3, regulate and restrict the height, number of stories, and the size of buildings and other structures, the percentage of lot that may be occupied, the size of yards, courts, and other open spaces, the density of population, and the location and use of buildings, structures, and land for trade, industry, residence, or other purposes.”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Local city zoning regulations governing the percentage of a lot that may be occupied.

    • The actual lot-coverage percentage is established by the applicable local zoning regulation.
    • The authority is permissive and applies to city zoning regulations.
    • The regulation is subject to chapter 54-21.3.
    “the percentage of lot that may be occupied”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation of an onsite wastewater treatment system anywhere in North Dakota

    • The inspection is conducted by the permitting authority or its authorized representative.
    • The inspection must occur within one business day after the request for inspection.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension requires a permit before work begins; regular system maintenance does not require a permit.
    • The permitting authority is a local public health unit, other political subdivision, or designee.

    inspection deadline: 1 business day (After receiving the request for inspection) · permit validity: <= 12 months (From date of issuance)

    “Inspection of the installation of a system must be conducted by the permitting authority or an authorized representative of the permitting authority in accordance with paragraph 3 of subdivision c of subsection 2 of North Dakota Century Code section 23-35-02, which requires the inspection to be conducted within one business day of receiving the request for inspection.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Private water-supply wells statewide in North Dakota.

    • A water appropriation permit from the North Dakota Department of Water Resources is required when annual withdrawal exceeds 12.5 acre-feet.
    • A permit is not needed for wells drawing less than 12.5 acre-feet per year, according to the official private-well guide.
    • For domestic, livestock, fish and wildlife, and recreational uses below 12.5 acre-feet per year, the location and capacity of constructed works must be reported to the Department of Water Resources.
    • Anyone hired to construct, install, or repair a well, pump, or pitless unit must be licensed; individuals may install or repair wells on their own property without a license.

    annual water withdrawal threshold: > 12.5 acre-feet per year (Domestic, livestock, fish and wildlife, and recreational uses below this threshold do not require a water appropriation permit but must be reported.) · annual water withdrawal threshold: > 4073137 gallons per year (Equivalent threshold stated by the Department of Water Resources.)

    “Domestic, municipal, public, livestock, fish and wildlife, and recreational water use exceeding 12.5 acre-feet (4,073,137 gallons or 96,979 barrels) per year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Water-supply wells serving property in Morton County.
      “If your well will draw over 12.5 acre-feet (4,073,000 gallons) of water per year, it needs to be permitted by the North Dakota Department of Water Resources”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Transient lodging rentals held out to the public for a charge in North Dakota.

    • A lodging license applies to buildings or structures held out to the public where sleeping accommodations are furnished to transient guests for a charge.
    • The lodging license does not apply to a single structure with five or fewer guest rooms and ten or fewer total occupants.
    • The lodging license also does not apply to a series or group of buildings or structures containing five or fewer guest rooms and ten or fewer total occupants.
    • License applications must be submitted at least 30 days before beginning construction or acquiring new ownership; new construction, renovation, or remodeling also requires the Section 3 Plan Review Checklist; after payment, review may take up to 30 calendar days.

    guest-room exemption threshold: <= 5 guest rooms or fewer (Only when total occupants are ten or fewer.) · occupant exemption threshold: <= 10 occupants or fewer (Only when the structure has five or fewer guest rooms.)

    “The lodging license does not apply to: Single structures with five or fewer guest rooms and ten or fewer total occupants.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Campsite occupancy in North Dakota state parks.

    • The limit applies to campsite and cabin occupancy in state parks.
    • All vehicles entering a state park must have a valid daily or annual vehicle entrance permit, including overnight stays and day visits.
    • Campers must check in at 4:00 p.m. on the first reservation day and check out by 3:00 p.m. on the last day.

    maximum campsite or cabin occupancy: <= 14 nights in any 30-day period

    “Campsite and cabin occupancy is limited to no more than 14 nights in any 30-day period.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    North Dakota counties adopting zoning regulations for land and buildings within the county, including unincorporated areas.

    • The authority is exercised by the board of county commissioners.
    • Regulation is subject to North Dakota Century Code chapter 54-21.3.
    • The authority covers the location and use of buildings and structures and the use, condition of use, or occupancy of lands for residence, recreation, and other purposes.
    • County zoning regulations must be made in accordance with a comprehensive plan.
    • A county may divide all or any parts of the county into districts, and regulations must be uniform within each district but may differ between districts.
    • County zoning regulations must account for the statutory limitations governing farming, ranching, and animal feeding operations in section 11-33-02.1.
    • The board must state the grounds for approving or disapproving zoning amendments or variances, and written findings must be included in the records.
    • The board must establish zoning requirements for solid waste disposal and incineration facilities before July 1, 1994.
    • The board may impose tipping or other fees on solid waste management and incineration facilities, but may not impose a fee under this section on an energy conversion facility or coal mining operation that disposes of its waste onsite.
    • The board may establish institutional controls addressing environmental concerns with the department of environmental quality under section 23.1-10-16.
    “For the purpose of promoting health, safety, morals, public convenience, general prosperity, and public welfare, the board of county commissioners of any county may regulate and restrict within the county, subject to chapter 54-21.3, the location and the use of buildings and structures and the use, condition of use, or occupancy of lands for residence, recreation, and other purposes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — North Dakota county boards of commissioners adopting zoning regulations, including regulation of unincorporated county land.
      “the board of county commissioners of any county may regulate and restrict within the county”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    County authority to administer and enforce the state building code, including the residential code, and to provide for building permits for buildings or structures subject to county zoning in unincorporated areas of North Dakota.

    • A county that elects to administer and enforce a building code must adopt and enforce the state building code; it may amend that code to conform to local needs.
    • A county may administer and enforce the state building code only in areas where a city or township does not administer it. A city or township may relinquish that authority to its county under N.D.C.C. § 54-40.5-03; local governments may also agree to joint administration and enforcement or contract for private enforcement.
    • County permit authority under N.D.C.C. § 11-33-18 applies to a building or structure otherwise subject to the County Zoning chapter.
    • If the county provides for permits, it must require the applicant to state whether the structure is reasonably anticipated to have a significant transportation-system impact. A structure has such impact if it will average at least twenty-five motor vehicles per day during one year with gross weight exceeding sixty thousand pounds [27215.54 kilograms].
    • For a structure with significant transportation-system impact, the county must notify the director of the department of transportation and allow an opportunity to comment; director approval is not required.
    • The county may establish and collect reasonable permit fees, which must be credited to the county general fund.
    • A county-adopted building code may not require fire sprinklers in a single-family dwelling or a residential building containing no more than two dwelling units.

    significant transportation-system impact threshold: >= 25 motor vehicles per day (Over a period of one year; vehicles must have gross weight exceeding sixty thousand pounds [27215.54 kilograms].) · fire-sprinkler requirement: false (A county building code may not require sprinklers in a single-family dwelling or residential building with no more than two dwelling units.)

    “The governing body of a city, township, or county that elects to administer and enforce a building code shall adopt and enforce the state building code. However, the state building code may be amended by cities, townships, and counties to conform to local needs.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In North Dakota, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Morton County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Tiny homes

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Morton County, North Dakota

Is Morton County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Morton County scores 54/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 385 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (18″/yr rainfall).

Do you need a building permit in Morton County, North Dakota?

Morton County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Western Plains Public Health. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Morton County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Morton County is limited to specific cases: Recreational-vehicle occupancy in a county-regulated recreational vehicle camp. A recreational vehicle camp may be permitted only in A, C, PR, or I districts with a special use permit. Minimum premises area is 90,000 square feet; each trailer area is at least 2,000 square feet; each trailer lane is at least 20 feet wide and all-weather surfaced. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Morton County, North Dakota?

Land in Morton County runs about $1,865 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Morton County?

Morton County gets about 18" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 7.2% of years.

How remote is Morton County?

A representative private-land location has about 385 people within a 30-minute drive and 185,314 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Morton compares in North Dakota

Compare side-by-side →See all 53 North Dakota counties ranked →