Bolthole Index

Stark County, North Dakota

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

55Index Score / 100
#12 of 53 in North Dakota

Unincorporated Stark County, North Dakota requires a building permit for construction, alteration or conversion of buildings and structures, although qualifying farmers have a limited exemption for farm-operation buildings12. The City of Dickinson issues building permits for all of Stark County, while Stark County Planning & Zoning administers zoning, subdivision review and floodplain management in unincorporated areas34. Septic permits come from the Southwestern District Health Unit5.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for construction, alteration or conversion in unincorporated Stark County1
Zoning
County zoning and subdivision rules apply in unincorporated areas67
Septic permit
Local permit required before work; the state licenses installers89
Agricultural buildings
Qualifying farmers have a limited exemption for farm-operation buildings, but not homes or public-use buildings2
Owner-builder exemption
Only confirmed for qualifying farmers constructing eligible farm-operation buildings10
Lot and building limits
Minimum lot size is 40 acres in Agriculture, 10 in Agricultural Residential, 5 in Rural Residential and 2 in Estate Residential11
Private well
State water permit required above 12.5 acre-feet per year; lower domestic use must be reported12
Septic soil suitability
Only 11.7% of soils avoid a severe limitation rating for conventional drain fields13

Who to call

Building permits

City of Dickinson Building Department

Building-permit applications for Stark County, through the City of Dickinson (City Hall main number)

(701) 456 7744

38 1st St W Dickinson, ND 58601

Online permits →

Zoning

Stark County Planning & Zoning Department

Zoning, subdivision review, long-range land-use planning and floodplain management in unincorporated Stark County

701-456-7672

sjosephson@starkcountynd.gov

51 3rd St East Dickinson, ND 58601

Septic permits

Southwestern District Health Unit

Local public-health permits for onsite wastewater systems in Stark County

(701)483-0171

528 21st Street West Dickinson, ND 58601

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 Stark 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 Stark County, North Dakota?

Yes. Unincorporated Stark County requires a building permit before construction, alteration or conversion of buildings and structures covered by the county zoning ordinance14. The exemption for an owner doing the work is limited to a qualifying farmer constructing a building used directly in a farm operation10. The farmer must meet the ordinance definition and qualify for the Farm Residence Property Tax Exemption; anyone who does not qualify or has not filed the required forms must obtain a permit even for an agricultural building2. A home or building used by the public requires both building and occupancy permits regardless of farm acreage15. County building applications remain valid for one year from issuance14.

Who issues building permits in Stark County, North Dakota?

The City of Dickinson serves as Stark County's building department and issues the building permits for the county, and the county directs building-permit applicants to Dickinson's online form16. Stark County publishes planning and zoning applications, directions and fee schedules, although the available material does not establish a single fee for every project17. Zoning, variance, conditional-use and building applications may also carry processing costs such as publication, attorney, mileage and copying expenses18. Stark County Planning & Zoning is the separate contact for zoning approval, subdivision and floodplain questions on unincorporated land; septic permits come from the Southwestern District Health Unit, not from either office195. Call Planning & Zoning at 701-456-7672 for county zoning questions19. Reach the City of Dickinson at (701) 456 7744 or 38 1st St W, Dickinson, ND 58601, or use its online building permit form16. Ask the building department which inspections apply to the proposed work because we could not confirm Stark County's ordinary-construction inspection schedule16.

Does Stark County, North Dakota have zoning?

Stark County administers zoning and subdivision regulations in unincorporated Stark County, and its zoning ordinance does not apply within a city's zoning jurisdiction420. Minimum lot size varies by district: 40 acres in Agriculture, 10 acres in Agricultural Residential, 5 acres in Rural Residential and 2 acres in Estate Residential, with other districts and uses set separately11. In Estate Residential, the front, side and rear setbacks are 40, 15 and 25 feet, and lot coverage tops out at 30 percent2122. Buildings must also sit at least 125 feet from section lines and county-road centerlines and 250 feet from state-highway centerlines20. Single-family homes, including manufactured and modular homes, are permitted uses in the Agriculture, Agricultural Residential, Rural Residential and Estate Residential districts2324. An accessory dwelling unit is permitted in those districts on a lot of at least 60,000 square feet, with a 600-square-foot minimum, no RVs, and one extra parking space25. Subdivision applications are regulated, and preliminary and final applications must be submitted three weeks before the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting7. Ask Planning & Zoning to verify the parcel's district and dimensional standards before choosing a site19.

How do septic permits work in Stark County, North Dakota?

Southwestern District Health Unit is the local public health unit serving Stark County, and its Dickinson office is the local contact for onsite wastewater permits2627. Septic permits do not come from the City of Dickinson or the county zoning office: North Dakota DEQ licenses onsite wastewater installers, while the local public health unit issues the permit that must be secured before work begins, and local codes also apply285. New subdivisions in the county must connect to an approved onsite sewage system29. Soil suitability deserves early attention: only 11.7% of Stark County soils avoid a severe-limitation rating for a conventional septic drain field13. That countywide soil rating does not decide a parcel's permit, but it makes an early site evaluation especially valuable139. Ask Southwestern District Health Unit about site-evaluation and inspection steps before fixing the home location because we could not confirm a general Stark County septic-inspection requirement27.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Stark County, North Dakota?

Stark County zoning applies to land uses and buildings in unincorporated areas, so RV, manufactured-home or tiny-home plans should begin with a parcel-specific zoning and floodplain check619. In a special flood hazard area, an RV must either meet manufactured-home elevation and anchoring requirements or remain for less than 180 consecutive days while fully licensed and highway ready30. Manufactured homes placed or substantially improved in special flood hazard areas also face elevation and anchoring standards31. An RV cannot qualify as an accessory dwelling unit25. Outside the floodplain provision, the county ordinance regulates RV parks and campgrounds, which need a permit, at least 5 acres and no more than 15 units per gross acre32. We could not confirm a rule for living in a single RV on a private parcel, or for tiny homes, so ask Planning & Zoning before buying or moving a unit onsite19.

What are the steps to build a home in Stark County, North Dakota?

  1. Confirm that the parcel is in unincorporated Stark County and ask Planning & Zoning for its district, allowed residential use, lot standards and floodplain status63319.
  1. If the site lies in a special flood hazard area, obtain the applicable floodplain development permit before construction or development begins34.
  1. Take the proposed site to Southwestern District Health Unit before finalizing the layout, because a local onsite wastewater permit is required before septic work begins927.
  1. Determine the water source; withdrawals above 12.5 acre-feet per year require a state water-appropriation permit, while lower domestic use must be reported12.
  1. Apply for the building permit through the City of Dickinson, which serves as Stark County's building department, and confirm inspections before obtaining the required occupancy permit1615.

What should you check before buying land in Stark County, North Dakota?

Start with jurisdiction, zoning district, subdivision status and floodplain status through Stark County Planning & Zoning6719. A special flood hazard area triggers a development permit before construction or development begins, including structural and non-building situations34. Confirm legal road access and ask the appropriate road authority whether an approach approval is needed because we could not confirm Stark County's driveway-permit threshold. Budget for septic feasibility early because only 11.7% of county soils avoid a severe-limitation rating for conventional drain fields13. A well that will draw more than 12.5 acre-feet of water per year needs a state permit; smaller domestic use does not, but well-construction rules still apply35. Setbacks from state highways are 250 feet from the centerline20. The nearest city of 100,000 or more is about 276 miles from the county center, so expect long hauls for big-city services36. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.9%, with a median annual bill of about $2,3983738.

Watch-outs

  • The owner-builder exemption is limited to qualifying farmers and eligible farm-operation buildings; it does not excuse permits for a home or public-use building102.
  • An accessory dwelling unit cannot be an RV and must satisfy the county's district, lot, setback, parking, water and sewer conditions25.
  • An RV in a special flood hazard area must meet the county's elevation and anchoring route or its temporary-placement and highway-ready conditions30.
  • General RV living on a private parcel, tiny-home occupancy, minimum principal-home size and ordinary building-inspection timing remain questions for Planning & Zoning and the building department1916.

Sources

  1. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026 (2026 county census)
  2. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  3. Planning & Zoning - Stark County, ND Website, quoted and re-checked
  4. Planning & Zoning - Stark County, ND, quoted and re-checked
  5. On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  6. Planning & Zoning - Stark County, ND Website, quoted and re-checked
  7. Planning & Zoning - Stark County, ND Website, quoted and re-checked
  8. On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  9. On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  10. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  11. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  12. Water Appropriation Permits (North Dakota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. 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
  14. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  15. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  16. City of Dickinson Building Department (dickinsongov.com)
  17. Planning and Zoning Applications, Directions and Fee Documents, quoted and re-checked
  18. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  19. Stark County Planning & Zoning Department (starkcountynd.gov)
  20. Stark County, North Dakota Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document, final 1/29/2026, quoted and re-checked
  21. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  22. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  23. Stark County, North Dakota Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document, final 1/29/2026, quoted and re-checked
  24. Stark County, North Dakota Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document, final 1/29/2026, quoted and re-checked
  25. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  26. Southwestern District Health Unit - County Contact Info (2026 county census)
  27. Southwestern District Health Unit (swdhu.net)
  28. On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  29. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  30. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  31. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  32. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  33. Stark County Zoning Ordinance Compilation Document 2026, quoted and re-checked
  34. Planning & Zoning - Stark County, ND Website, quoted and re-checked
  35. Private Well Owner’s Guide: Well Installation, quoted and re-checked
  36. Straight-line distance from the county center to the nearest city of 100,000+ people: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  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 all 6 of its neighbors, Stark County has countywide zoning.

RuleStark CountyHettinger CountyBillings CountyDunn CountySlope CountyAdams CountyMercer County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsSouthwestern District Health UnitSWDHUSouthwestern District Health UnitND DEQND Dept. of Env. QualitySouthwestern District Health UnitWestern Plains Public Health

County locator

Stark County in North Dakota

55
County map
Stark County highlighted among the North Dakota counties · colored by Index score

How Stark County scores

Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency2296% ev.
Admin Boringness4590% ev.
Durability64100% ev.
Property Autonomy73100% ev.
Carry Cost75100% ev.

Evidence strength: 97%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$324kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$1,651Land / acre
16.4"Annual rain
9.6% of yrsSevere drought
5.9 / yr (+5)Mid-century 100°F days
21.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.27" (+6.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.35×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,259Home insurance / yr
2.6% / yrInsurance growth
0.46%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
51,563People within 2 hr
3,497Radius comparison (15 mi)
24.7People / sq mi
0.6%Federal land
91.3%Land at 15% slope or less
11.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
99,469 acWorkable land screen
1.8%Wooded land
29.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Stark 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.

Belfield · Dickinson · Gladstone · Richardton · South Heart · Taylor

Answers from the rulebook for Stark County

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

Stark County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, or conversion of buildings and structures under the Stark County zoning ordinance.

    • Buildings or structures directly used in connection with agriculture/farm operations and constructed by qualifying farmers are exempt from this section.
    • A building permit and occupancy permit are still required for any building used for human habitation or by the public, regardless of farm acreage.
    • Persons who do not qualify for, or have not filed forms for, the Farm Residence Property Tax Exemption must obtain a permit even for agricultural buildings.
    • A building application expires one year from issuance.
    • The ordinance was amended on December 5, 2023.

    application validity: 1 year from issuance

    “first obtaining a building permit from the County”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Qualifying farmers constructing buildings or structures directly used in connection with agriculture/farm operations.

    • The farmer must be defined under Article II and qualify for the Farm Residence Property Tax Exemption under N.D.C.C. 57-02-08.
    • The exemption does not apply to buildings used for human habitation or by the public.
    • A person who does not qualify for, or has not filed forms for, the Farm Residence Property Tax Exemption must obtain a building permit, including for agricultural buildings.
    “This section does not apply to those buildings or structures directly used in connection with agriculture/farm operations and constructed by farmers as defined in Article II Rules and Definitions of this ordinance. 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.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Buildings used for human habitation or by the public, including such buildings on farms.

    • The ordinance expressly preserves the agricultural exemption for other farm-operation buildings, but requires an occupancy permit for any building used for human habitation or by the public regardless of acreage.
    “building permit and occupancy permit shall be required”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning regulation in Stark County's unincorporated territorial jurisdiction.

    • The ordinance regulates land and structures within the county and unincorporated territorial jurisdiction.
    • The ordinance was amended July 1, 2025 and states it becomes effective thirty days following adoption by the County Commission.
    “The purpose of these regulations is to promote public health, safety, and the general welfare of the citizens of Stark County; to promote the orderly development of the county and to prevent conflict among land uses and structures; to regulate the use and division of land within the county and unincorporated territorial jurisdiction”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present — Zoning administered by Stark County in unincorporated Stark County.
      “administration and enforcement of Stark County zoning and subdivision regulations”
    • Present — County zoning administered in unincorporated Stark County.
      “The Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for administration and enforcement of Stark County zoning and subdivision regulations, provide support to the Stark County Planning and Zoning Commission, long-range planning for land use and development, and floodplain management in unincorporated Stark County.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning districts established by the Stark County Zoning Ordinance for areas outside municipalities and their applicable zoning jurisdictions.

    • The zoning district map is on file in the County Auditor's office and/or with the County Zoning Administrator.
    • The County Zoning Administrator regularly updates the map to show changes resulting from amendments.
    • The ordinance excludes persons and property within a city's zoning jurisdiction under chapter 40–47, N.D.C.C.
    “The following zoning districts are hereby established to carry out the purposes of this ordinance:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning districts and the zoning map for unincorporated Stark County.
      “The location and boundaries of the zoning districts are hereby established as shown on the map entitled “Zoning District Map" on file in the office of the County Auditor and/or the County Zoning Administrator. The County Zoning Administrator shall regularly update the map to show any changes in the zoning district boundary line resulting from amendments.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in Stark County zoning districts, varying by district and use.

    • Examples include 40 acres in Agriculture, 10 acres in Agricultural Residential, five acres in Rural Residential, and two acres in Estate Residential; other districts and uses have separate standards.

    agriculture minimum lot size: 40 acres · agricultural-residential minimum lot size: 10 acres · rural-residential minimum lot size: 5 acres · estate-residential minimum lot size: 2 acres

    “Development Standards 1) Minimum lot size: 2 acres 2) Minimum lot width: 100 feet 3) Minimum front yard setbacks: 40 feet 4) Minimum side yard setbacks: 15 feet 5) Minimum rear yard setbacks: 25 feet 6) Maximum lot coverage: 30 percent 7) Maximum height: 35 feet for residential structures”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings and tree plantings relative to section lines, county roads, and state highways in unincorporated Stark County.

    • The county zoning ordinance does not apply within a city's zoning jurisdiction under chapter 40–47, N.D.C.C.
    • These are minimum setbacks; other district-specific or use-specific setbacks may also apply.

    building setback from section lines and county-road centerlines: 125 feet · building setback from state-highway centerlines: 250 feet · tree-planting setback from section lines and county-road centerlines: 125 feet

    “The minimum setback for buildings from the centerline of all state highways shall be two hundred fifty (250) feet.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Development in Stark County zoning districts, varying by district and use.
      “Development Standards 1) Minimum lot size: 2 acres 2) Minimum lot width: 100 feet 3) Minimum front yard setbacks: 40 feet 4) Minimum side yard setbacks: 15 feet 5) Minimum rear yard setbacks: 25 feet 6) Maximum lot coverage: 30 percent 7) Maximum height: 35 feet for residential structures”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Estate Residential zoning district development.

    • The cited 30-percent limit is for the Estate Residential district; other districts may differ.

    maximum lot coverage: <= 30 percent

    “Development Standards 1) Minimum lot size: 2 acres 2) Minimum lot width: 100 feet 3) Minimum front yard setbacks: 40 feet 4) Minimum side yard setbacks: 15 feet 5) Minimum rear yard setbacks: 25 feet 6) Maximum lot coverage: 30 percent 7) Maximum height: 35 feet for residential structures”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Zoning districts and uses with lot-coverage standards in the Stark County ordinance.
      “Development Standards 1) Minimum lot size: 2 acres 2) Minimum lot width: 100 feet 3) Minimum front yard setbacks: 40 feet 4) Minimum side yard setbacks: 15 feet 5) Minimum rear yard setbacks: 25 feet 6) Maximum lot coverage: 30 percent”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Zoning districts and uses with height standards in the Stark County ordinance.

    • Height varies by district and use; one cited residential standard limits residential structures to 35 feet.
    • Wind turbines have a separate maximum height of 500 feet.

    example maximum residential structure height: <= 35 feet (Applies to the cited district/use standard.)

    “6) Maximum lot coverage: 30 percent 7) Maximum height: 35 feet for residential structures”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Residential structures in the Estate Residential zoning district.
      “Development Standards 1) Minimum lot size: 2 acres 2) Minimum lot width: 100 feet 3) Minimum front yard setbacks: 40 feet 4) Minimum side yard setbacks: 15 feet 5) Minimum rear yard setbacks: 25 feet 6) Maximum lot coverage: 30 percent 7) Maximum height: 35 feet for residential structures”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicle parks, tourist camps, and trailer camps in applicable Stark County zoning districts.

    • A permit is required.
    • Campgrounds must be at least five acres.
    • Maximum density is fifteen recreational trailers per gross acre.
    • A site plan, proof of compliance with North Dakota State Health Department and State Laboratories Department requirements, and County Commission ingress/egress approval are required.

    minimum campground area: >= 5 acres · maximum recreational-trailer density: <= 15 units per gross acre

    “In addition to the mobile home park standards listed in this chapter, the applicant shall meet the following requirements to obtain a permit: 1) The minimum area for campground shall be five (5) acres and maximum number of recreational trailers shall be fifteen (15) units per gross acre. 2) A site plan showing the boundary of property, topographic information with contour intervals of no more than five (5) feet; arrangement of streets, drives and access roads; location of service buildings; location and dimension of camp sites; location of sanitary facilities; and location of water supply. 3) Proof of compliance with the requirements of North Dakota State Health Department and North Dakota State Laboratories Department must be submitted. 4) Approval of the County Commission for ingress and egress to the property.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational vehicles placed in Stark County special flood hazard areas, including A1-30, AH, and AE zones.
      “In the SFHA, including A1-30, AH, and AE Zones, all recreational vehicles to be placed on a site must (i) be elevated and anchored to meet the requirements for manufactured homes as found above; or (ii) be on the site for less than 180 consecutive days; and (iii) be fully licensed and highway ready.”
  • Camping on your landProhibited

    Temporary overnight accommodations associated with a conditional-use reception hall.

    • The prohibition is specific to the reception-hall provisions and should not be generalized to every parcel or zoning district.
    “No temporary overnight accommodations such as tents and/or camping units shall be allowed.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed

    Single-family residential occupancy, including manufactured homes, in the Agricultural District in unincorporated Stark County.

    • The county zoning ordinance does not apply within a city's zoning jurisdiction under chapter 40–47, N.D.C.C.
    • The use remains subject to the Agricultural District regulations and other applicable county requirements.
    “11) Single-family residences (including manufactured homes and modular homes as defined in this ordinance) and accessory structures.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured homes placed or substantially improved in Stark County special flood hazard areas.
      “All manufactured homes placed or substantially improved within the SFHA, including Zones A 1-30, AH, or AE [...] be elevated on a permanent foundation so the lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated one foot above the base flood elevation and be securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist floatation, collapse, and lateral movement.”
    • Allowed — Single-family residential occupancy, including manufactured homes, in the Agricultural Residential District in unincorporated Stark County.
      “11) Single-family residences (including manufactured homes and modular homes as defined in this ordinance) and accessory structures.”
    • Allowed — Single-family residential occupancy, including manufactured homes, in the Rural Residential District in unincorporated Stark County.
      “10) Single-family residences (including manufactured homes and modular homes as defined in this ordinance) and accessory structures.”
    • Allowed — Single-family residential occupancy, including manufactured homes, in the Estate Residential District in unincorporated Stark County.
      “1) Single-family detached residences (including manufactured homes and modular homes as defined in this ordinance) and accessory structures.”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Manufactured homes in the Stark County Estate Residential zoning district and manufactured-home parks.
      “Single-family detached residences (including manufactured homes and modular homes as defined in this ordinance) and accessory structures. [...] The applicant shall meet the following requirements for obtaining a permit for construction and operation of a mobile home park. [...] The park shall contain a minimum of ten (10) acres of land. [...] The maximum number of mobile homes in a park shall be five (5) units per gross acre.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units in Agriculture, Agricultural Residential, Rural Residential, and Estate Residential zoning districts.

    • The unit must be on a conforming residential lot of at least 60,000 square feet.
    • The owner must reside in either the principal residence or accessory dwelling.
    • Detached units must be in the side or rear yard and within 150 feet of the principal residence, unless converting an existing detached structure.
    • Minimum unit size is 600 square feet.
    • Unit area may not exceed 80 percent of the primary residence habitable area or 1,500 square feet, whichever is smaller.
    • The unit must meet district setbacks and applicable building, water, and sewer regulations.
    • No recreational vehicle may be used as an accessory dwelling unit.
    • One unit is allowed on residential property under 40 acres; two units on property of 40 acres or more.
    • An additional off-street parking space and title notice are required.

    minimum lot area: >= 60000 square feet · minimum unit area: >= 600 square feet · maximum unit area: <= 80 percent of primary residence habitable area (or 1,500 square feet, whichever is smaller) · detached-unit distance: <= 150 feet (unless converting an existing detached structure) · maximum units under 40 acres: <= 1 unit · maximum units on 40 acres or more: <= 2 units

    “The accessory dwelling unit shall be a permitted use”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units in Agriculture, Agricultural Residential, Rural Residential, and Estate Residential zoning districts.
      “The accessory dwelling unit shall be a permitted use”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    New subdivision development in Stark County.

    • The required connection is to an approved onsite sewage system; this claim does not establish municipal sewer or water-main connection requirements.
    “all new subdivision development within the county shall be connected to an approved on-site sewage system.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Building-permit exemption for qualifying farmers and buildings directly used in agriculture/farm operations.

    • The farmer must meet the ordinance's Article II definition and qualify for the Farm Residence Property Tax Exemption under N.D.C.C. 57-02-08.
    • The exemption does not apply to buildings used for human habitation or by the public.
    • Nonqualifying persons or persons who have not filed the required forms must obtain permits, including for agricultural buildings.
    “This section does not apply to those buildings or structures directly used in connection with agriculture/farm operations and constructed by farmers as defined in Article II Rules and Definitions of this ordinance. 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)

    Subdivision applications and subdivision regulation in unincorporated Stark County.

    • Preliminary and final subdivision applications must be submitted three weeks before the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.
    • Floodplain subdivision proposals must minimize flood damage, provide utilities and facilities located and constructed to minimize flood damage, provide adequate drainage, and provide base-flood-elevation data for proposals containing at least 50 lots or 5 acres, whichever is less.

    submission deadline before commission meeting: 3 weeks · floodplain threshold: 50 lots or 5 acres, whichever is less

    “The deadline for submitting rezoning applications, conditional use permit applications, and preliminary and final subdivision applications shall be three weeks prior to the Stark County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats and improvements in unincorporated Stark County.
      “The Planning and Zoning Commission shall review the preliminary plat and may request additional information before it takes action.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development within special flood hazard areas in unincorporated Stark County.

    • The requirements apply to persons and property within Stark County except persons and property within a city's zoning jurisdiction under chapter 40–47, N.D.C.C.
    • The FEMA special flood hazard areas and the Flood Insurance Study for Stark County and Incorporated Areas dated August 28, 2024, with accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Map, are adopted by reference and the study is on file at the Stark County Courthouse.
    • No structure or land may be constructed, located, extended, converted, or altered without full compliance with these requirements and other applicable regulations.
    • A development permit must be obtained before construction or development begins in a special flood hazard area; applications use forms furnished by the Stark County Floodplain Manager and may require scaled plans, elevations, structures, fill, storage, drainage facilities, and other listed information.
    • Where base-flood-elevation data are provided, new construction and substantial improvement of residential structures must have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated at least one foot above base-flood elevation.
    • Nonresidential construction must either elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above base-flood elevation or satisfy the stated floodproofing, structural, and professional-certification requirements.

    residential lowest-floor elevation above base-flood elevation: >= 1 foot (where base flood elevation data have been provided) · nonresidential floodproofing elevation: >= 2 feet (alternative to elevating the lowest floor one foot above base flood elevation; structural and professional-certification requirements also apply)

    “A development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any special flood hazard area established in Section 3.10.3 General Provisions.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Structural development and non-building situations in Stark County floodplain areas.
      “A development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any special flood hazard area established in Section 3.10.3 General Provisions.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Stark County planning and zoning application fees and fee schedules.

    • The county publishes a dedicated applications, fee schedules, and directions document page.
    • The current fee amounts were not extracted from the accessible page.
    “Applications, Fee Schedules and Direction Document's”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — County zoning, variance, conditional-use, and building-application fees.
      “The County Zoning Administrator shall charge and collect a fee according to the resolution of fees and schedules established by the Commission. The applicant for a conditional use permit, variance, or building application, shall be liable for and pay to the County Zoning Administrator sufficient sums of money to pay for and cover costs incurred by the County for the processing of such application, including, but not limited to: publication costs, attorney’s fees, mileage, copying expense, etc.”
    • Variable (with conditions) — County conditional-use, variance, and building applications.
      “The County Zoning Administrator shall charge and collect a fee according to the resolution of fees and schedules established by the Commission. The applicant for a conditional use permit, variance, or building application, shall be liable for and pay to the County Zoning Administrator sufficient sums of money to pay for and cover costs incurred by the County for the processing of such application, including, but not limited to: publication costs, attorney’s fees, mileage, copying expense, etc. No permit shall be issued until such costs have been paid by the applicant, unless the County Zoning Administrator has otherwise provided for good cause shown.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building, conditional-use, rezoning, subdivision, and floodplain permit/application processes administered for Stark County.

    • All building permits in Stark County are handled by the City of Dickinson, which serves as Stark County's Building Department.
    • The county publishes or links applications for conditional-use permits, planned-unit-development rezoning, standard rezoning, subdivision, non-building floodplain situations, and structural floodplain development.
    • The county page directs applicants to the City of Dickinson's building-permit application.
    “The City of Dickinson serves as Stark County's Building Department.”

North Dakota rules that apply here

  • Building code adoptedPartial

    North Dakota's state building code and its adoption and enforcement by cities, townships, and counties statewide; state and local government buildings and schools are also addressed by the administrative code.

    • The state building code is administered and updated by North Dakota Commerce, but enforcement is the responsibility of jurisdictions that elect to adopt and enforce building codes.
    • A city, county, or township that elects to adopt and enforce a building code must adopt and enforce the State Building Code.
    • Cities, townships, and counties may amend the State Building Code to conform to local needs.
    • Fully chartered home rule cities may adopt something other than the State Building Code; the official Commerce page states that, at present, all jurisdictions enforcing a building code have adopted the same individual codes comprising the State Building Code.
    • The State Building Code consists of the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code, and International Fuel Gas Code; Commerce also states that the 2024 updates and proposed amendments were adopted on September 11, 2025 and that the new State Building Code went into effect January 1, 2026.
    • The state statute separately exempts buildings that are neither heated nor cooled, certain low-energy-use buildings, qualifying restored or reconstructed historic buildings, and agricultural buildings unless used for human habitation or by the public.
    • The administrative code states that its chapter applies to cities, townships, and counties that elect to adopt and enforce building codes within their jurisdictional boundaries, and to all state and local government buildings and public and private schools.

    new state building code effective date: 2026-01-01 · state code components: IBC, IRC, IMC, and IFGC

    “If a city, county, or township elects to adopt and enforce building codes, it must adopt and enforce the State Building Code.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — The North Dakota State Building Code, consisting of the IBC, IRC, IMC, and IFGC, with the 2024 updates and stated amendments effective statewide as the state code framework.
      “adopted the 2024 updates to the IBC, IRC, IMC, and IFGC and the proposed amendments.”
    • Adopted — The North Dakota State Building Code, including residential construction covered by the state residential code.
      “The new North Dakota State Building Code will go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Factory-built modular residential or commercial structures manufactured in North Dakota or intended for placement in North Dakota, where the manufacturer produces two or more modular residential or commercial structures per year.

    • The manufacturer must contract with a third party for inspection during the manufacturing process in the factory.
    • The third-party inspector must be approved as a certified third-party inspector by the Division of Community Services.
    • The inspection covers applicable building, electrical, fire, and plumbing codes and standards.
    • When a certified third-party inspector monitors compliance during factory manufacturing, no further inspection by state or local building, electrical, fire, or plumbing inspectors may be required for that structure during the manufacturing process in the factory.
    • The statutory provision does not apply to a factory manufacturing fewer than two residential or commercial structures per year; the Commerce program page states that manufacturers producing less than two modular structures per year are exempt but must submit a yearly certification of exemption.

    annual modular structures produced: >= 2 structures/year (Factories producing fewer than two residential or commercial structures per year are exempt from the statutory provision; the Commerce program page requires a yearly certification of exemption.)

    “shall contract with a third party for the inspection of the structure for compliance with all applicable building, electrical, fire, and plumbing codes and standards”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Factory-built modular residential or commercial structures manufactured in North Dakota.
      “The manufacturer of a modular residential or commercial structure that is built in a factory shall contract with a third party for the inspection [...]”
  • 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.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    On-site wastewater systems in Stark County under North Dakota's state licensing framework and local public-health permitting.

    • NDDEQ licenses installers.
    • A permit must be obtained from the local public health unit before work begins.
    • Installers must follow local codes.
    “The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality oversees the licensing of onsite wastewater treatment system installers under the authority of NDCC 23.1-07.1. All installers must obtain a license from the department, which is issued at no cost, and secure a permit from their local public health unit before beginning work on a system.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — On-site wastewater systems in Stark County under North Dakota's statewide program.
      “secure a permit from their local public health unit before beginning work on a system”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — State and local administration of onsite wastewater systems applicable in Stark County.
      “All installers must obtain a license from the department, which is issued at no cost, and secure a permit from their local public health unit”
    • Mixed — On-site wastewater treatment systems statewide in North Dakota.
      “The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality oversees the licensing of onsite wastewater treatment system installers”
  • Septic permitRequired

    On-site wastewater system installation in Stark County.

    • The installer must obtain a no-cost state license and a permit from the local public health unit before beginning work.
    • Local codes also apply.

    state installer-license fee: 0 USD

    “All installers must obtain a license from the department, which is issued at no cost, and secure a permit from their local public health unit before beginning work on a system.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — On-site wastewater systems in Stark County.
      “All installers must obtain a license from the department, which is issued at no cost, and secure a permit from their local public health unit before beginning work on a system.”
    • Required — Installation of an onsite wastewater treatment system anywhere in North Dakota.
      “Installers must obtain both a state license and a local public health permit before beginning work.”
  • 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.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid or alternative domestic sewage collection, treatment, and disposal systems in North Dakota

    • Domestic wastewater from bathrooms, kitchens, laundry fixtures, and other household plumbing must pass through a septic tank or higher level of treatment before discharge into soil.
    • If underground dispersal is not feasible, the permitting authority may review alternative collection and disposal methods; approval is not automatic.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a system requires a permit before work begins, subject to the regular-maintenance exception.
    • Wastewater may not be disposed of in a manner that creates a nuisance or causes a system to malfunction or fail.
    • The applicable permitting authority is a local public health unit, other political subdivision, or designee.

    minimum lot size for a new system: >= 1 acre (A variance may be available under Section 33.1-21-01-15)

    “Water carried from bathrooms, kitchens, laundry fixtures, and other household plumbing must pass through a septic tank or higher level of treatment prior to its discharge into the soil. If underground dispersal for treatment is not feasible, the permitting authority may review alternative methods of collection and disposal.”
  • 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 — Private water wells in North Dakota, including Stark County.
      “If your well will draw over 12.5 acre-feet (4,073,000 gallons) of water per year, it needs to be permitted”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway and other access connections involving the North Dakota State Highway System, including controlled-access facilities and driveways within state highway right-of-way.

    • The North Dakota statute applies specifically to controlled-access facilities; access is available only at designated points and on terms and conditions specified from time to time.
    • NDDOT maintains access control on the State Highway System, and proposed changes to access require contact with the District Engineer for coordination.
    • For a driveway on state highway right-of-way, the NDDOT driveway permit must be granted before the permitted work proceeds; failure to construct the drive approach as permitted may result in cancellation and removal or correction at the landowner's expense.
    • A driveway is not complete until checked and approved by NDDOT; surfacing may be omitted on field entrances if specified in the application.
    • The driveway may be used only to provide entrance to and exit from the landowner's property.
    • A driveway or improvement on the highway right-of-way may not be altered or relocated without permission of the NDDOT District Engineer.
    • NDDOT supervises the location, construction, and maintenance of driveways and may direct future removal, relocation, or maintenance; NDDOT may diminish or expand use as required for highway-traffic safety.
    “No driveway, or improvement constructed on the highway right-of-way shall be altered or relocated without permission of the District Engineer of NDDOT.”
  • 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 Stark 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 Stark County, North Dakota

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

Stark County scores 55/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 3,497 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (16.4″/yr rainfall).

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

Stark County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Southwestern District Health Unit. 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.

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

Land in Stark County runs about $1,651 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Stark County?

Stark County gets about 16.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9.6% of years.

How remote is Stark County?

A typical private-land location has about 3,497 people within 15 miles and 241,447 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Stark compares in North Dakota

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