Bolthole Index

Williams County, North Dakota

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

51Index Score / 100
#22 of 53 in North Dakota

Unincorporated Williams County, North Dakota requires building permits for construction, many alterations, and grading or drainage work in county jurisdiction1. Williams County administers zoning where county jurisdiction applies; Ray has its own building-permit and zoning-conformance process234. The Upper Missouri District Health Unit handles septic permits throughout Williams County, including individual systems where public or noncommunity sewage treatment is unavailable56.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for construction, many alterations, and grading or drainage work in county jurisdiction1
Zoning
County zoning applies where county jurisdiction governs; Ray has its own zoning-conformance process24
Septic permit
Required before installing an individual system; handled and inspected by the Upper Missouri District Health Unit567
RV living
Not a permanent residence; occasional occupancy on a residential lot requires approval8
Tiny home
No tiny-home-specific rule confirmed; manufactured homes classed as single-family dwellings must be at least 1,000 square feet9
Owner-builder
An owner-occupant may be listed as contractor for a residential project, but is not exempt from permits or code compliance1011
Domestic well
State appropriation permit applies above 12.5 acre-feet per year12
Agricultural building
A state-code exemption applies only to agricultural buildings not used as homes or by the public; other approvals may remain13

Who to call

Building permits

Williams County Development Services – Building Division

Building-permit applications, plan review and permit fees for county jurisdiction

(701) 577-4567

Williams County Administration Building, 2nd Floor, 206 East Broadway, Williston, ND 58801

Zoning

Williams County Development Services – Planning and Zoning Division

Land-use and subdivision questions for unincorporated Williams County

(701) 577-4565

Williams County Administration Building, 2nd Floor, 206 East Broadway, Williston, ND 58801

Septic permits

Upper Missouri District Health Unit – Environmental Health

Septic-system permits and installer licensing in Williams County

701-774-6400

110 W. Bdwy, Suite 101, Williston, ND 58801

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

Yes. Williams County requires a building permit before constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving or demolishing a building or structure, changing its occupancy, or doing grading or drainage work in county jurisdiction1. The county issues the permit only after fees are paid and review confirms compliance with county ordinances and the North Dakota State Building Code1. Williams County has adopted the North Dakota State Building Code, and the state framework allows local amendments1415.

The state-code exemption for an agricultural building applies only when the building serves an agricultural purpose and is not used for human habitation or by the public13. Zoning, subdivision, septic, floodplain and access requirements may still apply, so ask the Building Division about a proposed barn, shop or grading project before work starts1316.

Who issues building permits in Williams County, North Dakota?

Williams County Development Services’ Building Division issues building permits in county jurisdiction and is based at the Williams County Administration Building in Williston16. The county’s minimum building-permit fee is $75, and a building permit is issued only after review and payment16. Statewide, building-permit and plan-review fees are set by the enforcing jurisdiction rather than by one uniform North Dakota fee schedule17.

Inside Ray, the city handles its building permits and determines zoning conformance before acting on a building permit3. Individual-septic permitting remains with the Upper Missouri District Health Unit throughout Williams County5. Elsewhere, confirm county, city or township building jurisdiction before submitting plans18. For a residential project that the property owner will occupy, Williams County allows the owner to be listed as the contractor, but that is not an exemption from building permits, fees, inspections or code compliance1011.

Does Williams County, North Dakota have zoning?

Williams County administers zoning districts where county jurisdiction applies on unincorporated land; municipal or township zoning authority may apply within their respective jurisdictions2. Inside Ray, the city requires zoning conformance for routine building activity4. Ray’s zoning authority does not replace UMDHU’s countywide individual-septic permitting role5. District-specific rules can govern lot size, setbacks, lot coverage and building height, so check the current map and ordinance for the parcel19.

A building permit does not establish that a proposed use fits the parcel. Confirm the zoning district, allowed use and parcel-specific conditions with Planning and Zoning before designing a house2021. Dividing land also requires county subdivision review; major or minor applications receive a completeness review, and major subdivisions may require hearings, commission action or a development agreement22. A manufactured or mobile home treated as a single-family dwelling must have at least 1,000 square feet and meet the county’s other construction, foundation, utility and design conditions9.

How do septic permits work in Williams County?

The Upper Missouri District Health Unit issues septic permits and licenses installers throughout Williams County5. When public or noncommunity sewage treatment is unavailable, obtain a written UMDHU septic permit before constructing an individual system for a building used for human occupancy; the application must include complete plans and specifications6. The septic construction permit is valid for 12 months; if installation has not started by then, a new application is required6. UMDHU may require supervised percolation or other site tests6. If UMDHU deems a public or noncommunity sewer available within 200 feet, sewage must discharge to it instead2324. Where water under pressure is unavailable, human wastes must use approved privies, chemical toilets or other UMDHU-approved installations; ask UMDHU to approve the proposed sanitation method24.

UMDHU inspects during installation, and no part may be covered before inspection without prior approval7. The installer or owner must give at least two working days’ notice when the system is ready, and defects must be corrected before use7. A private treatment system generally needs at least one acre, while zoning may require more25. Only about 39.1% of mapped county soils avoid a “very limited” rating for a conventional drain field, so settle septic feasibility before fixing the house location26.

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

Williams County does not allow an RV to be used as a permanent residence. With approval, an RV may be occasionally occupied and parked on a residential lot, and an occupied RV must meet the zoning district’s setbacks8. In an RV park or campground, occupancy is recreational and limited to 180 consecutive days or less; the RV must remain highway ready, without skirting, decks or mud rooms27. Ask Planning and Zoning what approval occasional occupancy requires for the specific residential lot21.

We could not confirm a tiny-home-specific occupancy rule or a general minimum size for site-built homes. A manufactured or mobile home qualifies as a single-family dwelling under the zoning ordinance only if it has at least 1,000 square feet and meets the listed construction, permanent-foundation, utility, roof, siding and production-date conditions9. A new manufactured home used as a residence must also be installed and inspected by state-licensed professionals28. Confirm zoning approval with Planning and Zoning and the required building permit with the Building Division2116.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is in county, city or township jurisdiction, then ask the applicable zoning office for the mapped district and allowed residential use218.
  2. For unincorporated land, ask Williams County Planning and Zoning whether subdivision review or a development agreement is required2221.
  3. Determine sewage service: if UMDHU deems a public or noncommunity sewer available within 200 feet, connection is required24.
  4. If an individual septic system is needed, submit plans and obtain the UMDHU septic permit before construction629.
  5. Apply to the Building Division for the county building permit; new construction, grading and drainage work require one in county jurisdiction116.
  6. Check whether the site lies in a Special Flood Hazard Area; development there requires approval from the local Floodplain Administrator before work30.
  7. Confirm water supply and access; a North Dakota water-appropriation permit is required above 12.5 acre-feet of annual withdrawal, while lower specified uses must be reported12.
  8. Give UMDHU at least two working days’ notice before the septic inspection and leave the installation uncovered unless UMDHU approves otherwise7.

What should you check before buying land in Williams County?

Start with jurisdiction and zoning: Williams County administers zoning districts where county jurisdiction applies on unincorporated land, while a city or township may have separate rules2. Ask Planning and Zoning whether an existing tract is legally subdivided and whether a proposed split requires minor or major subdivision review2221. A private treatment system generally requires at least one acre, but that is a septic standard rather than a general zoning minimum, and zoning may require more25. Only about 39.1% of mapped soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so septic feasibility can control where the house goes26.

Check flood mapping before closing because work in a Special Flood Hazard Area requires local floodplain approval before it begins30. If the parcel is near an animal feeding operation, ask Planning and Zoning about the specialized separation rules before choosing a homesite3121. We could not confirm a separate county driveway-permit requirement; ask the Building Division which road authority to contact for the proposed access16. Finally, budget for carrying costs: the county’s effective property-tax rate is about 0.7%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $1,9133233.

Watch-outs

  • A county building permit does not replace zoning review; confirm the proposed use and subdivision status with Planning and Zoning before design work21.
  • A private septic system generally requires at least one acre, and UMDHU requires connection when it deems a public or noncommunity sewer available within 200 feet2524.
  • An RV cannot be a permanent residence; occasional occupancy on a residential lot requires approval, while RV-park or campground stays are limited to 180 consecutive days834.
  • We could not confirm a tiny-home-specific rule or a general minimum size for site-built homes; ask Planning and Zoning about the proposed dwelling21.
  • Williams County’s animal-feeding-operation zoning rules have a separate conditional-use process, application fee and separation distances; those are not general residential standards35363731.
  • Development in a Special Flood Hazard Area needs approval from the local Floodplain Administrator before work begins30.

Sources

  1. Williams County Development Guide, quoted and re-checked
  2. Williams County Planning and Zoning Commission, quoted and re-checked
  3. Ray: Ray Code of Ordinances § 34-70, Zoning conformance permits (Williams County), quoted and re-checked
  4. Ray: Ray Code of Ordinances § 34-70, Zoning conformance permits (Williams County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  6. Regulations for Individual Sewage Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  7. Regulations for Individual Sewage Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  8. Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  9. Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  10. Williams County Development Guide (2026 county census)
  11. Williams County Development Guide, quoted and re-checked
  12. Water Appropriation Permits (North Dakota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 54-21.3, State Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  14. Williams County Ordinance No. 2016-02, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  16. Williams County Development Services – Building Division (williamsnd.com)
  17. 2026 North Dakota State Building Code Book (North Dakota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. Building Codes (North Dakota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. Ordinance No. 2022-08-02.1, County-Wide Zoning District Map, quoted and re-checked
  20. Williams County Planning and Zoning Commission, quoted and re-checked
  21. Williams County Development Services – Planning and Zoning Division (williamsnd.com)
  22. Williams County Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  23. North Dakota Administrative Code, Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  24. Regulations for Individual Sewage Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  25. Regulations for Individual Sewage Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  26. 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
  27. Williams County Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  28. Manufactured Home Installation Program (North Dakota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Upper Missouri District Health Unit – Environmental Health (umdhu.org)
  30. Floodplain Management, quoted and re-checked
  31. Williams County AFO-Final, quoted and re-checked
  32. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  34. williamsnd.civicweb.net, quoted and re-checked
  35. Williams County AFO-Final, quoted and re-checked
  36. Williams County AFO-Final, quoted and re-checked
  37. deq.nd.gov, quoted and re-checked

Written October 11, 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, Williams County has countywide zoning.

RuleWilliams CountyDivide CountyMcKenzie CountyMountrail CountyBurke CountyDunn CountyRenville County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsUpper Missouri District Health UnitUMDHULocal public health unitUpper Missouri District Health UnitFirst District Health UnitND DEQFirst District Health Unit

County locator

Williams County in North Dakota

51
County map
Williams County highlighted among the North Dakota counties · colored by Index score

How Williams County scores

Seclusion90100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency20100% ev.
Admin Boringness4390% ev.
Durability52100% 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 →

$356kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$1,383Land / acre
15.4"Annual rain
19% of yrsSevere drought
4.8 / yr (+4)Mid-century 100°F days
20.2 daysMid-century dry spell
1.2" (+4.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.37×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,923Home insurance / yr
0.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.74%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
171People within 30 min
64,421People within 2 hr
2,305Radius comparison (15 mi)
18.8People / sq mi
11%Federal land
90.3%Land at 15% slope or less
39.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
503,162 acWorkable land screen
1.4%Wooded land
24.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
40.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Williams 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: Alamo · Athens Township · Barr Butte Township · Big Meadow Township · Big Stone Township · Blacktail Township · Blue Ridge Township · Bonetraill Township · Brooklyn Township · Buford Township · Bull Butte Township · Champion Township · Climax Township · Dry Fork Township · Dublin Township · East Fork Township · Ellisville Township · Epping · Equality Township · Farmvale Township · Good Luck Township · Grenora · Grenora Township · Hardscrabble Township · Hazel Township · Hebron Township · Judson Township · Lindahl Township · Marshall Township · Missouri Ridge Township · Mont Township · Oliver Township · Orthell Township · Pherrin Township · Pleasant Valley Township · Rainbow Township · Rock Island Township · Round Prairie Township · Sauk Valley Township · Scorio Township · South Meadow Township · Springbrook · Springbrook Township · Stony Creek Township · Strandahl Township · Tioga · Tioga Township · Trenton Township · Truax Township · Twelve Mile Township · Tyrone Township · View Township · West Bank Township · Wheelock Township · Wildrose · Williston Township · Winner Township

Answers from the rulebook for Williams County

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

Williams County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, movement, demolition, occupancy change, and grading or drainage work requiring county review.

    • Permit issuance follows payment of fees and review for compliance with Williams County ordinances and the North Dakota State Building Code.
    • For commercial projects, a Storm Water Management Plan approved by the Williams County Water Resource Board is required before permit issuance.
    • A septic permit application must be copied to the county application where applicable.
    • Agricultural buildings may remain subject to the county's adopted code because the county deleted the State Code exemption for unheated or uncooled buildings.
    “A building permit is required before an individual intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure. A permit is also required prior to doing any grading or drainage work. A permit will only be issued after permit fees have been paid and a review has been completed to verify the proposed project meets the minimum requirements of Williams County ordinances and the North Dakota State Building Code.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Residential projects where the property owner will occupy the structure.

    • The owner may be listed as contractor only for residential projects when the owner will be the occupant.
    • The source does not state that the owner is exempt from permits, inspections, code compliance or fees.
    “the owner can be listed as the contractor”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Williams County building-code administration and enforcement in county-regulated areas.

    • Ordinance No. 2016-02 incorporated the State Building Code retroactively to September 15, 2015.
    • Ordinance No. 2018-08-07 deleted the exemption for buildings that are neither heated nor cooled, making those buildings subject to the State Building Code.
    • The State Building Code may be amended to conform to local needs.
    “The North Dakota State Building Code, as defined in N.D.C.C. § 54-21.3-03”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning authority documented for animal feeding operations in Williams County.

    • The cited ordinance concerns animal feeding operations and does not establish the full current county zoning code, map, or all land uses.
    “The following Ordinance, based on the Model Animal Feeding Ordinance issued by the North Dakota Department of Health, regulating the permitting, location, development, and expansion of feedlots has been adopted to protect the natural environment and to safeguard the public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of Williams County.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning ordinance and zoning district map for unincorporated Williams County.
      “TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COUNTY-WIDE ZONING DISTRICT MAP”
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning ordinance and zoning districts administered by Williams County in areas where county jurisdiction applies.
      “The powers and duties of the Williams County Planning and Zoning Commission are set forth in North Dakota Century Code Chapter 11-33 and in the Williams County Zoning Ordinance & Subdivision Regulations, and include the power and duty to hold public hearings and make recommendations to the board of county commissioners on zoning requests; recommend amendments to the zoning regulations; and recommend the boundaries of county zoning districts and appropriate regulations and restrictions to be established in the zoning districts.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Williams County zoning districts and mapped zoning layers.

    • The county GIS service publishes zoning layers and related planning layers.
    • Parcel-specific district applicability requires checking the current county GIS map and applicable ordinance text.
    • Municipal and township zoning may control within their jurisdictions.
    “Planning & Zoning [...] Subdivisions [...] CUPs [...] Variances [...] Zoning New [...] Zoning OLD [...] Old City and ETJ Zoning”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Manufactured/mobile homes treated as single-family dwellings under the Williams County zoning ordinance.

    • The home must comply with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act or the Uniform Building Code at the time of production.
    • The home must be attached to a permanent foundation.
    • The home must be connected to public water and sewer where available.
    • The home must have a pitched roof, eaves, and siding materials customarily used on site-built homes in Williams County.
    • The home must be built off-site in a factory on or after January 1, 1990.
    • Manufactured/mobile homes must also satisfy the area, setback, and height requirements of the applicable zoning district and current building codes.
    • Mobile homes and manufactured homes that do not meet the definition are not single-family dwellings for purposes of the ordinance.

    minimum floor area: >= 1000 square feet

    “A single family dwelling includes manufactured/mobile homes that (a) comply with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act or the Uniform Building Code at the time of production, (b) are at least 1,000 square feet in size, (c) are attached to a permanent foundation, (d) are connected to public water and sewer where available, (e) have a pitched roof, eaves and siding materials that are customarily used on site-built homes in Williams County, and (f) are built off-site in a factory on or after January 1, 1990. Mobile homes and manufactured homes that do not meet this definition are not single family dwellings for the purposes of this ordinance.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Minimum lot size for installing a private sewage treatment system in Williams County.

    • The one-acre standard applies to private treatment-system installation, not necessarily to general land-use subdivision or zoning.
    • Smaller lots may be approved if a centralized sewage treatment system is provided and approved through the North Dakota Department of Health.
    • The regulation also states that zoning may require more; if two or more lots are needed to equal one acre, they must be replatted into one lot before a sewer permit may be issued.

    minimum lot size: >= 1 acre (Smaller lots may be approved with an approved centralized sewage treatment system; zoning may require more.)

    “The minimum lot size in which a private treatment system may be installed is one acre (43,560 square feet). Smaller lot sizes may be approved by the UMDHU if a centralized sewage treatment system is provided and approved through the NDDOH.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Animal feeding operations and related residences, businesses, churches, schools, public parks, and residentially zoned areas in Williams County.

    • For new animal feeding operations, the ordinance prohibits location within an incorporated city's extraterritorial zoning jurisdiction.
    • For operations with more than 1,000 animal units, additional water-resource setbacks include 1,200 feet from a private groundwater well not owned by the operator, 1,500 feet from a public groundwater well without a delineated source-water protection area, and 1,000 feet from qualifying surface water.
    • The County Board of Commissioners may increase or decrease an odor setback after Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation based on site conditions or demonstrable safety, health, environmental, or public-welfare concerns.
    • The operator may locate the owner's residence or business within the listed setbacks.

    odor setback, 300 to 1000 animal units: 0.50 mi (hog and other animal operations) · odor setback, 1001 or more animal units: 0.75 mi (hog operations; other animal operations are 0.50 mi) · odor setback, 2001 or more animal units: 1.00 mi (hog operations; other animal operations are 0.75 mi) · odor setback, 5001 or more animal units: 1.50 mi (hog operations; other animal operations are 1.00 mi)

    “The operator of a new facility for an animal feeding operation shall not locate that operation within the extra territorial zoning jurisdiction of an incorporated city. An owner of property shall locate and establish a residence, business, church, school, public park or zone for residential use so as to provide a separation distance from any animal feeding operation.”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Recreational vehicle/trailer parks and campgrounds in Williams County.

    • New and expanded recreational vehicle/trailer parks and campgrounds must comply with North Dakota Century Code chapter 23-10 and North Dakota Administrative Code chapter 33-33-02.
    • County approval applications must include a complete scaled plan and specifications, including property description, developer information, site dimensions, RV or campground lot details, roads and parking, structures, lighting and electrical systems, and water, sewer, and refuse-disposal facilities with approved soil testing results.
    • No tent, recreational vehicle, trailer, or attachment may be within 10 feet of another such unit or part thereof.
    • No tent, recreational vehicle, trailer, or attachment may be within 15 feet of an exterior boundary or 25 feet from a public road.
    • All units and attachments must remain accessible to emergency vehicles.
    • Occupancy is limited to recreational purposes on a temporary basis of 180 consecutive days or less; permanent occupancy of more than 180 consecutive days is not permitted.
    • Recreational vehicles and trailers must remain highway ready; skirting and attached permanent or temporary structures such as decks or mud rooms are prohibited.
    • At least one off-street parking space outside each RV/trailer pad is required for each RV/trailer space, plus one additional space per 10 RV/trailer spaces or tent sites and one additional space per employee on shift.
    • Streets must be privately owned and maintained, subject to an easement for public access and travel, and designed and constructed under county standards and NDCC chapter 23-10 and North Dakota Administrative Code chapter 33-33-02.
    • Where county and state standards conflict, the more stringent standard prevails.

    maximum occupancy period: <= 180 consecutive days (Permanent occupancy of more than 180 consecutive days is not permitted.) · minimum separation between tents, recreational vehicles, trailers, or attachments: >= 10 feet · minimum setback from exterior boundary: >= 15 feet · minimum setback from public road: >= 25 feet

    “Occupation of Recreational Vehicle/Trailer Parks and Campgrounds is for recreational purposes only on a temporary basis (180 consecutive days or less); permanent occupancy (more than180 consecutive days) is not permitted. Recreational vehicles and trailers must remain highway ready; no skirting or attached permanent or temporary structures such as decks or mud rooms are allowed.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Recreational vehicle occupancy on residential lots and in Williams County recreational vehicle/trailer parks and campgrounds.
      “Recreational vehicles shall not be used as permanent residences. When approved, recreational vehicles may be occasionally occupied and parked on a residential lot as but not utilized as permanent residences. Unoccupied recreational vehicles may be stored on a residential lot or within a commercial storage area. Occupied recreational vehicles on any residential lot shall comply with all setback requirements of the particular zoning district.”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Occupation of Williams County recreational vehicle/trailer parks and campgrounds.
      “Occupation of Recreational Vehicle/Trailer Parks and Campgrounds is for recreational purposes only on a temporary basis (180 consecutive days or less); permanent occupancy (more than180 consecutive days) is not permitted.”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Septic systems in Williams County, administered within the Upper Missouri District Health Unit's four-county jurisdiction.

    • The Upper Missouri District Health Unit also licenses septic installers.
    • The district covers Divide, McKenzie, Mountrail, and Williams Counties.
    “The Upper Missouri District Health Unit is the agency with authority to permit septic systems and license installers in the four counties of Divide, McKenzie, Mountrail and Williams.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Local (with conditions) — Individual septic systems in Williams County, which is one of the four counties served by the Upper Missouri District Health Unit.
      “The Upper Missouri District Health Unit is the agency with authority to permit septic systems and license installers in the four counties of Divide, McKenzie, Mountrail and Williams.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of an individual sewage treatment system in Williams County.

    • A written permit application is required before construction when public or non-community sewage treatment is unavailable and an individual system is contemplated for a building used for human occupancy.
    • The permit application must include complete plans and specifications.
    • The construction permit is valid for 12 months from issuance; if installation does not start within 12 months of approval, the permit is void and a new application is required.
    • UMDHU may require percolation or other pertinent tests under its supervision.
    • UMDHU refuses an individual-system permit where public sewer is available.
    • Permit fees are established and revised by UMDHU at its discretion.

    permit validity: 12 months (If installation is not started within 12 months of approval, the permit is void.)

    “without first obtaining a permit from the UMDHU.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Individual sewage treatment systems for buildings of human occupancy in Williams County where public or noncommunity sewage treatment is unavailable.
      “Where public or noncommunity sewage treatment systems are not available and construction of an individual sewage treatment system is contemplated for a building of human occupancy or use or addition to, or alteration of any existing sewage treatment system, the master plumber or sewer and water contractor, or septic system installer, previous to beginning any construction may be required to make application to the local or district health units for a written permit to make the desired installation.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation of an individual sewage treatment system in Williams County.

    • UMDHU inspects during installation.
    • No part of the installation may be covered until inspected unless prior approval is granted.
    • The owner or occupant must provide reasonable access.
    • The installer or owner must give at least two working days' advance notice that the system is ready for inspection.
    • Defects must be corrected before the system is placed in service.
    • After satisfactory final inspection, UMDHU issues an approved signed copy of the permit.

    inspection notice: >= 2 working days

    “The UMDHU will make inspections during any installation to determine compliance with these regulations. No part of any installation will be covered until inspected by the UMDHU, unless prior approval has been granted. Any part of any installation which has been covered prior to final approval will be uncovered upon order of the UMDHU.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Sewage connection and disposal for premises used for human occupancy in Williams County.

    • If a public or non-community sewage system is deemed available within 200 feet, UMDHU requires sewage discharge into that system.
    • Where public or non-community sewage treatment is unavailable, an individual-system permit is required before construction.
    • Where water under pressure is unavailable, human body wastes must be handled through approved privies, chemical toilets, or other UMDHU-approved installations.
    • Water-carried sewage must pass through a septic or other approved sedimentation tank before discharge into soil or an alternative system.

    public sewage availability distance: <= 200 feet (UMDHU deems the public or non-community sewage system available to the premise.)

    “When a public or non-community sewage system is deemed available to a premise used for human occupancy if such premise is within two hundred feet [60.96 meters], the UMDHU will require that sewage be discharged into that system.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Major and minor subdivision applications governed by Williams County subdivision regulations.

    • The Planning and Zoning Official determines whether materials are complete and sufficient.
    • Regulations in effect at the time of submittal govern completeness and review.
    • Township comments may be requested; major subdivision review may involve public hearings and Board of County Commissioners action.
    • Development agreements may be required when public or private improvements are necessary.

    completeness decision deadline: 5 business days (for preliminary and minor subdivision application materials)

    “After receiving the preliminary plat application package, the proposed preliminary plat, supporting materials, and other information required by the Planning and Zoning Official, and the proper fee (collectively “application materials”), the Planning and Zoning Official shall decide whether the application materials are complete and sufficient for review. This decision shall occur within five (5) business days of receipt of the application documents”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Conditional-use permit applications for animal feeding operations.

    • The fee is established by the County Commission; the cited ordinance does not state the current dollar amount.

    conditional-use permit application fee: established by County Commission

    “The fee for each Conditional Use Permit application for animal feeding operations shall be established by the County Commission.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Conditional-use permits for new or expanded animal feeding operations in Williams County.

    • A new or expanded operation capable of handling more than 1,000 animal units is a conditional use.
    • A new conditional-use permit is required when capacity expands beyond 2,000 or 5,000 animal units.
    • The application is submitted to the Zoning Administrator at least 21 days before the public hearing.
    • The application is available for public inspection for 14 days before the hearing.
    • The Planning and Zoning Commission must hold at least one public hearing, with notice published at least 14 days in advance; townships within two miles receive mailed notice.
    • The permit becomes final only after the North Dakota Department of Health grants its permit.
    • No construction may take place until the Department of Health permit is issued.
    • A granted permit lapses if not used within 24 months.

    application lead time: >= 21 days before public hearing · public inspection period: 14 days before public hearing · permit use deadline: 24 months (otherwise permit lapses and applicant must re-apply)

    “shall apply for and obtain a Conditional Use Permit.”

North Dakota rules that apply here

  • 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 [...]”
  • 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”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Local city zoning regulations governing building height and number of stories.

    • The actual height or story limit is established by the applicable local zoning regulation.
    • The authority is permissive and applies to city zoning regulations.
    • A local board of adjustment may 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.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    New manufactured homes installed in North Dakota for residential purposes.

    • Installation must be performed by an installer licensed by the Division of Community Services.
    • The home must be inspected by an inspector licensed by the Division of Community Services.
    • The installer must first apply for and receive authorization to install the home from a licensed inspector.
    • A minimum of two inspections are required on a double-wide home and one inspection on a single-wide home.
    • After installation meets the installation requirements, an insignia is attached to show the home passes inspections.

    minimum inspections for double-wide manufactured home: >= 2 inspections · minimum inspections for single-wide manufactured home: 1 inspection

    “All new manufactured homes installed in North Dakota for residential purposes must be installed by an installer licensed by the Division of Community Services and inspected by an inspector licensed by the Division of Community Services.”
  • 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.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Buildings used for agricultural purposes under North Dakota's state building code chapter.

    • Agricultural purposes include agriculture, farming, ranching, dairying, pasturage, horticulture, floriculture, viticulture, and animal and poultry husbandry.
    • The exemption does not apply when the building is a place of human habitation or is for use by the public.
    • The exemption is from Chapter 54-21.3; other applicable state, local, zoning, floodplain, septic, or land-use requirements may still apply.
    • Buildings subject to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act must conform to the 2010 ADA standards notwithstanding the chapter exemption.
    “Any building used for agricultural purposes, unless a place of human habitation or for use by the public, is exempt from this chapter.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings used for agricultural purposes under North Dakota state building-code law.
      “Any building used for agricultural purposes, unless a place of human habitation or for use by the public, is exempt from this chapter.”
    • Available — Land and buildings used for farming, and the normal incidents of farming, when regulated under a county subdivision resolution adopted under N.D.C.C. chapter 11-33.2.
      “Additionally, no resolution, regulation, or restriction adopted pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall prohibit or prevent the use of land or buildings for farming or any of the normal incidents of farming.”
  • 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.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development within a Special Flood Hazard Area in Williams County or another North Dakota NFIP-participating community.

    • A floodplain development permit must be obtained from the local Floodplain Administrator before beginning work in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
    • Each NFIP participating community is responsible for managing floodplain development.
    • North Dakota Department of Water Resources review is required before a floodplain development permit is issued for development within the regulatory floodway.
    • Structures substantially damaged or improved by more than 50 percent must fully comply with applicable floodplain regulations.

    substantial improvement or damage threshold: > 50 percent (Structures in Special Flood Hazard Areas.)

    “Each NFIP participating community is responsible for managing floodplain development in compliance with state and federal laws. NFIP communities appoint a Floodplain Administrator to fulfill this function. The Floodplain Administrator is the local resource for any floodplain management questions. A floodplain development permit must be obtained from the local Floodplain Administrator before beginning any work in a Special Flood Hazard Area.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction or modification of North Dakota water-control structures regulated by the Department of Water Resources.
      “A construction permit is required from the DWR if a water control structure is constructed or modified”
  • 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 Williams 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.

  • Camping on your land
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy for buildings in county-administered areas.
  • Local zoning — Local zoning across Williams County, including incorporated municipalities and unincorporated areas.

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 Williams County, North Dakota

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

Williams County scores 51/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 171 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (15.4″/yr rainfall).

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

Williams County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Upper Missouri District Health Unit (Environmental 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.

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

Land in Williams County runs about $1,383 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Williams County?

Williams County gets about 15.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 19% of years.

How remote is Williams County?

A representative private-land location has about 171 people within a 30-minute drive and 64,421 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 Williams compares in North Dakota

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