Bolthole Index

Cass County, North Dakota

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

60Index Score / 100
#2 of 53 in North Dakota

Building permits in Cass County, North Dakota depend on the project and the township, city or other local jurisdiction: structural remodeling or expansion normally requires one, and substantial electrical, plumbing and mechanical work requires permits even without structural changes1. Zoning approval comes from the organized township or city, not from the county, while the county regulates subdivision within township zoning authority2. Septic permits for every address in Cass County, city or township, come from Fargo Cass Public Health, which licenses and inspects septic systems and issues a use permit after approval3.

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

The answer depends on the work and the township, city or other local jurisdiction.

The answer depends on the work and the township, city or other local jurisdiction. Structural remodeling or expansion in Cass County normally requires a building permit, and substantial electrical, plumbing and mechanical work requires permits even when no structural change is planned1. Smaller jobs such as roofing, siding, window replacement and some garden sheds may also require permits under local rules1. Contact the appropriate township, city or Cass County planner before starting development1. A jurisdiction that elects to adopt and enforce a building code must use North Dakota's State Building Code, although it may amend the code for local needs7. Agricultural buildings are exempt from that state chapter unless used for human habitation or by the public8.

Who is the Cass County building department, and how do you reach them?

Cass County has no single countywide building department.

Cass County has no single countywide building department. Start with the Cass County Planning Office, which coordinates township zoning and reviews proposals against county subdivision, floodplain and highway-access rules4. The Planning Office is at 1201 Main Ave. W., West Fargo, ND 58078, and its phone number is (701) 298-23754. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm4. The Planning Office can identify whether the township, city or county planner is the right first contact, because applicants must check with the applicable jurisdiction before development1. We could not confirm a single countywide building-inspection program or certificate-of-occupancy rule; ask the identified local permitting authority what inspections and closeout documents apply.

Does Cass County have zoning?

Zoning varies across Cass County townships and municipalities rather than coming from one confirmed countywide ordinance.

Zoning varies across Cass County townships and municipalities rather than coming from one confirmed countywide ordinance1. Organized townships regulate zoning, while the Cass County Commission regulates subdivision within their zoning authority2. Cass County also has a subdivision ordinance, so a land split may face county review as well as the rules of the township or municipality2. The Planning Office evaluates proposals against township zoning ordinances and directs applicants to the appropriate township or city before building4. For a specific parcel, ask the Planning Office which jurisdiction controls and then obtain that jurisdiction's answer on setbacks, minimum lot size, building height, RV occupancy and tiny homes; countywide measurements or occupancy rules for those topics could not be confirmed. Township ordinances do differ: Rich Township, for one, requires a manufactured home to have at least 960 square feet of floor area9.

How do septic permits work in Cass County?

Fargo Cass Public Health licenses and inspects the septic system for a Cass County home or small commercial building that discharges household wastewater, then issues the use permit after a successful inspection.

Fargo Cass Public Health licenses and inspects the septic system for a Cass County home or small commercial building that discharges household wastewater, then issues the use permit after a successful inspection3. A drain-field application starts with a valid soil sample; Fargo Cass Public Health helps size the system, after which the applicant returns the construction application, system sketch and payment3. The published fee is $200 for a tank and drain field or $100 for a holding tank10. Give Fargo Cass Public Health 24-hour notice before inspection and leave the tank and drain field uncovered until approval3. An owner may install the system only by physically digging it; another person or an unlicensed company cannot do that work for the owner3. Only about 16% of Cass County soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, so confirm the site and design before assuming a standard system will work11.

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

We could not confirm a countywide rule for RV or tiny-home occupancy on private land in Cass County.

We could not confirm a countywide rule for RV or tiny-home occupancy on private land in Cass County. The rules are set township by township: Rich Township limits temporary occupancy of a recreational vehicle or travel trailer to 30 days per year, and that limit should not be assumed elsewhere in the county9. Zoning varies by township and municipality, so ask the Cass County Planning Office to identify the jurisdiction for the parcel and then ask that jurisdiction what its ordinance allows1,4. North Dakota's limit of 14 nights in any 30-day period applies to state-park campsites and cabins, not private-land occupancy12. A new manufactured home used as a residence must be installed by a state-licensed installer and inspected by a state-licensed inspector6. Do not treat that manufactured-home rule as an answer for a site-built tiny home; the applicable local jurisdiction still needs to confirm zoning, size and occupancy requirements.

Building a home in Cass County: the steps, in order

Call the Cass County Planning Office at (701) 298-2375 to identify the township, city or county authority for zoning and permits before development begins.

  1. Call the Cass County Planning Office at (701) 298-2375 to identify the township, city or county authority for zoning and permits before development begins1,4.
  2. If you are splitting rural property, check with the Planning Office because the Cass County subdivision ordinance may apply alongside local rules2.
  3. Confirm whether the building scope needs local building, electrical, plumbing or mechanical permits; structural remodeling or expansion normally requires a building permit1.
  4. For a drain-field septic system, obtain a valid soil sample and submit the application, system sketch and payment; give Fargo Cass Public Health 24-hour inspection notice and leave the system uncovered until approval3.
  5. Obtain approval before starting work on a new or modified county-highway access; state, township and city roads go to their respective authorities13.
  6. If the site is in a special flood hazard area under Cass County jurisdiction, obtain the floodplain development permit before construction or development begins14.
  7. A well drawing more than 12.5 acre-feet per year needs a North Dakota Department of Water Resources permit; one drawing less does not15.

What to check before you buy land in Cass County

Zoning: ask the Cass County Planning Office which township, city or county authority controls the parcel because local zoning varies across Cass County.

Zoning: ask the Cass County Planning Office which township, city or county authority controls the parcel because local zoning varies across Cass County1,4. Soils: only about 16% of Cass County soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so investigate the site before assuming a standard system will work11. Flood: development in a special flood hazard area under Cass County jurisdiction requires a permit before work begins14, and individual sewage systems are not permitted in a floodway hazard area10. Access: approval is required before work starts on a county-highway entrance13. Taxes: Cass County's typical effective property tax rate is about 1.2%, with a median annual bill near $3,44911.

Watch-outs

  • Cass County permit and zoning answers depend on the project and the parcel's township, city or other jurisdiction; contact the appropriate local authority before development1.
  • Give Fargo Cass Public Health 24-hour notice for the open-trench septic inspection, and do not cover the tank or drain field before approval3.
  • A property owner may install a septic system only by physically digging it and completing the same permit and inspection process; the owner cannot hand the work to another person or an unlicensed company3.

Sources

15 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 9, 2026

  1. Cass County Planning Office — Prospective Rural Developers and Homeowners
  2. Commission Policy Manual
  3. On-site Sewage Treatment Systems
  4. Cass County Planning Office (casscountynd.gov)
  5. Water Appropriation Permits (North Dakota statewide rule)
  6. Manufactured Home Installation Program (North Dakota statewide rule)
  7. Building Codes
  8. North Dakota Century Code chapter 54-21.3, State Building Code
  9. Zoning Ordinance of Rich Township, Cass County, North Dakota
  10. Application for Onsite Sewage Treatment System
  11. 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
  12. North Dakota Administrative Code, Chapter 58-02-08, State Park Rules (North Dakota statewide rule)
  13. Access Permit Application
  14. Ordinance 2025-01 (Cass County Floodplain Development)
  15. Private Well Owner’s Guide: Well Installation

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

Unlike 4 of its 6 neighbors, Cass County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleCass CountyTraill CountyRansom CountyBarnes CountySteele CountyRichland CountyGriggs County
Building permitLimitedRequiredLimitedRequiredRequiredLimitedNot required
County zoningNoNoNot publishedYesNoYesYes
Septic permitsFargo Cass Public HealthTraill District Health UnitFargo Cass Public HealthND DEQCounty Public HealthCounty Health Dept.Nelson-Griggs District Health Unit

County locator

Cass County in North Dakota

60
County map
Cass County highlighted among the North Dakota counties · colored by Index score

How Cass County scores

60 / 100 · #2 of 53 in North Dakota · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion75100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency25100% ev.
Admin Boringness5590% ev.
Durability70100% ev.
Property Autonomy73100% ev.
Carry Cost72100% 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 →

$340kTypical home
1.2%Property tax
$4,110Land / acre
22.8"Annual rain
8.2% of yrsSevere drought
3.9 / yr (+3.4)Mid-century 100°F days
19.5 daysMid-century dry spell
1.56" (+7.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.69×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,995Home insurance / yr
2.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.82%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
809People within 30 min
459,344People within 2 hr
6,454Radius comparison (15 mi)
111.3People / sq mi
1.5%Federal land
99.4%Land at 15% slope or less
16.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
176,841 acWorkable land screen
2.6%Wooded land
61.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
41.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Cass 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 covered: Addison Township · Amenia Township · Arthur · Arthur Township · Ayr · Ayr Township · Barnes Township · Bell Township · Berlin Township · Buffalo Township · Casselton Township · Clifton Township · Cornell Township · Davenport Township · Dows Township · Durbin Township · Eldred Township · Empire Township · Erie Township · Everest Township · Gardner Township · Gill Township · Gunkel Township · Harmony Township · Harwood Township · Highland Township · Hill Township · Howes Township · Hunter Township · Kinyon Township · Lake Township · Leonard Township · Maple River Township · Mapleton · Mapleton Township · Noble Township · Normanna Township · North River · Page · Page Township · Pleasant Township · Pontiac Township · Prairie Rose · Raymond Township · Reed Township · Reile's Acres · Rich Township · Rochester Township · Rush River Township · Stanley Township · Tower Township · Tower City · Walburg Township · Warren Township · Watson Township · Wheatland Township · Wiser Township

Answers from the rulebook for Cass County

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

Cass County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Construction and remodeling in Cass County, subject to the applicable Township, City, or other local jurisdiction.

    • Structural remodeling or expansion will normally require a building permit.
    • Substantial electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work requires permits even without structural changes.
    • Roofing, siding, window replacement, and garden sheds of a certain size may require permits depending on local regulations.
    • Applicants should contact the appropriate Township or City before building.
    “Any project in Cass County that involves structurally changing an existing building through remodeling or expansion will normally require a building permit. Permits are also required for substantial electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work even if the work will not involve any structural changes. Even smaller projects such as roofing, siding, replacing windows, and building garden sheds of a certain size may require permits depending on local regulations.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A property owner installing an on-site sewage treatment system in Cass County and the other counties served by Fargo Cass Public Health.

    • The owner must physically dig the system.
    • The owner cannot have another individual or unlicensed company do the work.
    • The permitting and inspection process remains the same as for a licensed installer.
    “Yes, property owners can install their own system. Property owners are required to physically dig the system; they cannot have another individual or unlicensed company do the work for them.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — A property owner installing the owner's own onsite sewage treatment system in Cass County.
      “Yes, property owners can install their own system. Property owners are required to physically dig the system; they cannot have another individual or unlicensed company do the work for them.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County land-use zoning administered by Cass County.

    • Each of the 49 townships in Cass County and many cities have established zoning authority.
    • A few cities have established extraterritorial authority outside their municipal boundaries.
    “Cass County does not regulate land use through zoning.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Countywide aggregate of township and municipal zoning authorities; Cass County does not itself administer a county zoning ordinance.

    • Each of the 49 townships in Cass County has established zoning authority.
    • Many cities in Cass County have established zoning authority.
    • A few cities have established extraterritorial authority outside their municipal boundaries.
    “zoning ordinance or they have zoning ordinances with multiple zoning”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Cass County townships and municipalities.
      “Before any development occurs, contact the appropriate Township, City, or County Planner to inquire about compliance with zoning and FEMA floodplain regulations.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate zoning administration across Cass County municipalities, organized townships, and county jurisdiction.
      “the Board of County Commissioners is responsible for the regulation of subdivision within the zoning authority of the organized townships, and the organized townships are responsible for the regulation of zoning”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage treatment systems serving homes and small commercial buildings in Cass County.

    • North Dakota DEQ licenses onsite wastewater treatment system installers.
    • The local public health unit issues the local permit.
    • Fargo Cass Public Health serves Cass County and neighboring counties.
    “The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality oversees the licensing of onsite wastewater treatment system installers [...] 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
    • Local (with conditions) — On-site sewage treatment systems serving homes and small commercial buildings discharging household wastewater in Cass County.
      “We provide training and education on proper system construction to homeowners and septic system installers in Cass, Richland, Ransom, Sargent, Steele and Traill counties. Any home or small commercial building that discharges household wastewater is required to have their septic system licensed and inspected by Fargo Cass Public Health.”
    • Local (with conditions) — On-site sewage treatment systems in Cass County, including homes and small commercial buildings discharging household wastewater
      “We provide training and education on proper system construction to homeowners and septic system installers in Cass, Richland, Ransom, Sargent, Steele and Traill counties. Any home or small commercial building that discharges household wastewater is required to have their septic system licensed and inspected by Fargo Cass Public Health.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Any Cass County home or small commercial building discharging household wastewater.

    • The septic system must be licensed and inspected by Fargo Cass Public Health.
    • The permit is issued after a successful inspection.
    • The 2024 application states that the application itself is not a permit and that a permit is issued upon SEPHC approval.
    • Individual sewage disposal systems are not permitted in a floodway hazard area.

    tank and drain field application fee: 200 USD · holding tank application fee: 100 USD

    “Any home or small commercial building that discharges household wastewater is required to have their septic system licensed and inspected by Fargo Cass Public Health. After a successful inspection, a permit is then issued for use.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Any home or small commercial building in Cass County that discharges household wastewater.
      “Any home or small commercial building that discharges household wastewater is required to have their septic system licensed and inspected by Fargo Cass Public Health. After a successful inspection, a permit is then issued for use.”
    • Required — On-site sewage treatment systems serving homes or small commercial buildings discharging household wastewater
      “Any home or small commercial building that discharges household wastewater is required to have their septic system licensed and inspected by Fargo Cass Public Health. After a successful inspection, a permit is then issued for use.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Any home or small commercial building in Cass County that discharges household wastewater.

    • Fargo Cass Public Health requires 24-hour notice before requesting an inspection.
    • The open-trench tank and drain-field inspection must be completed before the system is covered.
    • A permit is issued only after a successful inspection.

    inspection notice: 24 hours

    “Please note: we require a 24-hour notice prior to requesting an inspection. FCPH will then conduct an open trench inspection of the tank and drain field. Do not cover the system until FCPH has given approval.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Onsite sewage treatment systems in Cass County.
      “Please note: we require a 24-hour notice prior to requesting an inspection. FCPH will then conduct an open trench inspection of the tank and drain field. Do not cover the system until FCPH has given approval.”
    • Required — On-site sewage treatment systems serving homes or small commercial buildings discharging household wastewater
      “Please note: we require a 24-hour notice prior to requesting an inspection. FCPH will then conduct an open trench inspection of the tank and drain field. Do not cover the system until FCPH has given approval.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and platting of land in Cass County outside the zoning authority of incorporated cities and organized townships, and subdivision regulation within organized-township zoning authority.

    • The ordinance was enacted March 6, 2006 and amended September 19, 2022.
    • Organized townships regulate zoning, while the County Commission regulates subdivision within organized-township zoning authority.
    • The county ordinance and applicable township or municipal rules may both apply.
    “AN ORDINANCE REGULATING SUBDIVISIONS IN CASS COUNTY: [...] the Cass County Subdivision Ordinance, which is attached and incorporated by reference, is hereby enacted this 6th day of March, 2006, and amended this 19th day of September, 2022.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New, modified, or removed access to a Cass County highway.

    • Applications must be submitted to the Cass County Highway Department.
    • A separate application and fee is required for each access requested.
    • No work may start until the application is approved and the permit issued.
    • The applicant bears design and construction costs.
    • A $1,000 refundable performance guarantee is required.
    • The access is subject to County Highway Department inspection and approval.

    application fee: 50 USD (nonrefundable) · performance guarantee: 1000 USD (refundable)

    “No work under this application is to be started until the application is approved and the permit is issued.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development within special flood hazard areas within Cass County jurisdiction.

    • The ordinance applies to all special flood hazard areas within Cass County jurisdiction.
    • A development permit must be obtained before construction or development begins.
    • Applications may require scaled plans and information about location, dimensions, elevations, structures, fill, storage, drainage facilities, lowest-floor elevation, floodproofing, professional certification for nonresidential floodproofing, and watercourse alteration.
    • The Floodplain Administrator grants or denies development permit applications.
    • The ordinance was adopted April 20, 2026.
    “A development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any special flood hazard area established in Section 3.2.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction or development within a special flood hazard area in Cass County jurisdiction.
      “A development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any special flood hazard area established in Section 3.2.”
    • Limited — Individual sewage disposal systems in floodway hazard areas
      “INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEMS NOT PERMITTED IN FLOODWAY HAZARD AREA”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Fargo Cass Public Health onsite sewage treatment system applications covering Cass County.

    • The published 2024 application charges $200 for a tank and drain field and $100 for a holding tank.
    • The application states that it is not itself a permit and that a permit is issued upon approval by SEPHC.
    • The application must be completed and returned to the SEPHC address; checks are payable to Fargo Cass Public Health, and credit-card payment requires calling the listed number.

    tank and drain field fee: 200 USD · holding tank fee: 100 USD

    “FEE: $200 for tank and drain field, $100 for holding tank”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Fargo Cass Public Health / Southeast Public Health Collaborative OSTS construction applications
      “FEE: $200 for tank and drain field, $100 for holding tank”
  • Permit processPartial

    County and local development-related permit process in Cass County.

    • Applicants must contact the appropriate Township, City, or County Planner before development.
    • Building-permit requirements vary with the work and local regulations.
    • County planning review applies to county subdivision, floodplain, and highway-access functions.
    “Before any development occurs, contact the appropriate Township, City, or County Planner to inquire about compliance with zoning and FEMA floodplain regulations.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Onsite sewage treatment system permitting in Cass County.
      “Once you have a valid soil sample, we will assist in sizing the system. The sizing will be used to fill out and return an Application for OSTS Construction (2024) along with a sketch of the proposed system as well as the required payment.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Construction of on-site sewage treatment systems in the Fargo Cass Public Health service area
      “You must have a valid soil sample done for each system requiring a drain field. [...] The sizing will be used to fill out and return an Application for OSTS Construction (2024) along with a sketch of the proposed system as well as the required payment. Please note: we require a 24-hour notice prior to requesting an inspection. FCPH will then conduct an open trench inspection of the tank and drain field. Do not cover the system until FCPH has given approval.”

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.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Cities, counties, and townships in North Dakota that elect to adopt and enforce building codes, including jurisdictions in Cass County.
      “If a city, county, or township elects to adopt and enforce building codes, it must adopt and enforce the State Building Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — North Dakota State Building Code, including the International Building, Residential, Mechanical, and Fuel Gas Codes
      “If a city, county, or township elects to adopt and enforce building codes, it must adopt and enforce the State Building Code. However, a jurisdiction is permitted to further amend the State Building Code to conform to local needs.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — North Dakota State Building Code, including jurisdictions in Cass County that elect to adopt and enforce building codes.
      “If a city, county, or township elects to adopt and enforce building codes, it must adopt and enforce the State Building Code.”
    • 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.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Local city zoning regulations governing yards, courts, and other open spaces in North Dakota.

    • The actual setback distances are 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.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Private water-supply wells in Cass County and elsewhere in North Dakota.
      “If your well will draw over 12.5 acre-feet (4,073,000 gallons) of water per year, it needs to be permitted”
    • Limited — Water-supply wells in Cass County under North Dakota requirements.
      “If your well will draw over 12.5 acre-feet (4,073,000 gallons) of water per year, it needs to be permitted by the North Dakota Department of Water Resources [...] A permit is not needed for wells that draw less than 12.5 acre-feet per year.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer (with conditions)

    Owners of property abutting streets, avenues or alleys in North Dakota municipalities that adopt a connection resolution; applies to sewer, water main and other service connections

    • Applies only when the municipal governing body deems it necessary and adopts a resolution
    • Connection costs are a charge against the fronting property
    • The city auditor publishes notice once each week for two successive weeks stating the work and the time to complete it
    • If the owner does not connect within the time specified, the governing body shall order the work done by a contractor at the expense of the adjoining lot or parcel
    • The work is administered and observed under the supervision of the municipality's engineer
    • The engineer, not the governing body, assesses the expense of the connection against the lot or parcel
    • The assessments are certified by the city auditor to the county treasurer for collection like special assessments
    • Subject to the municipal ordinance governing the laying and construction of such connections
    “the governing body of a municipality, when it shall deem it necessary, by resolution, may require the owners of all property abutting on any street, avenue, or alley to construct or cause to be constructed”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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
    • Conditional — Buildings used for agricultural purposes under the North Dakota State Building Code
      “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.”
  • 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

    Establishment, operation, modification, or enlargement of recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds in North Dakota.

    • A Department of Health and Human Services license is required before a person establishes, maintains, changes use, mixes use, or enlarges a recreational vehicle park or campground.
    • The written license application must be on department forms, be accompanied by the required fee, identify the physical address and type of proposed facility, include local-official approval of compliance with applicable local zoning laws, ordinances, or regulations, and state the proposed water supply, sewerage method, and garbage-disposal method.
    • For new construction or alteration or enlargement, a complete scaled plan and specifications must be submitted to the department for approval.
    • A tent, recreational vehicle, or attachment must be at least ten feet from another tent, recreational vehicle, or part thereof; its location may not create a hazard or restrict emergency services.
    • State- or political-subdivision-owned parks and campgrounds receive a waiver of the department license and inspection requirement under N.D.C.C. 23-10-03(4).
    • Counties may separately regulate the use, condition of use, or occupancy of land under N.D.C.C. ch. 11-33; local zoning compliance is an express component of the state license application.

    minimum separation between tents, recreational vehicles, or attachments: >= 10 feet (Must not create a hazard or restrict emergency vehicles and personnel from performing necessary services.) · annual license fee for 3-10 lots: 110 USD · annual license fee for 11-25 lots: 160 USD · annual license fee for 26-50 lots: 210 USD · annual license fee for 51-100 lots: 265 USD · annual license fee for 101-150 lots: 325 USD · annual license fee for 151-200 lots: 385 USD · annual license fee for 201-250 lots: 445 USD · annual license fee for more than 250 lots: 505 USD · initial-license administration fee: 100 USD (In addition to the annual license fee and, if a plan review application is required, 50 percent of the annual license fee.) · reinspection fee: per 100 USD (For each reinspection required due to failure to correct repeat violations and each subsequent reinspection due to a notice of violation.)

    “A person may not establish [...] a recreational vehicle park, or campground in this state without first obtaining a license from the department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Cass County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Manufactured homes in Rich Township, Cass County, under the Rich Township zoning ordinance.

    • The dwelling must be constructed in accordance with Federal Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards (HUD code) in effect after June 15, 1976.
    • The home must be on a permanent foundation complying with the International Building Code and the City's Building Code.
    • The ordinance requires a minimum gross floor area of 960 square feet and a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet, along with the listed roof, eave, siding, and lot-dimension requirements.

    minimum gross floor area: >= 960 square feet · minimum ceiling height: >= 7 feet · minimum lot width: >= 24 feet · minimum lot depth: >= 20 feet

    “Have a minimum gross floor area of nine hundred sixty (960) square feet; and Have a minimum ceiling height of seven (7) feet.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots in Rich Township zoning districts AG, RR, RC, and LI.

    • Table 2 lists minimum lot areas of 10 acres in AG and 5 acres in RR; the table does not display a minimum area for RC or LI.
    • The table lists lot widths of 200 feet in AG and RR and 100 feet in RC and LI.
    • The table lists lot depths of 120 feet in AG and RR and 220 feet in LI; the RC lot-depth cell is blank in the extracted table.
    • Buildings and development must comply with the applicable district requirements.
    • Buildings and structures to house essential service facilities may be allowed as a conditional use by district regulations; a lot area below the district minimum requires a variance.
    • The general variance process requires an application to the Zoning Administrator with the required fee, written hardship letter, site or operations plan when applicable, and any additional Section 5 materials; a Planning Commission public hearing and recommendation; and final decision by the Board of Township Supervisors.

    minimum lot area AG: 10 acres (Subject to an essential-service variance and general variance process.) · minimum lot area RR: 5 acres (Subject to an essential-service variance and general variance process.) · minimum lot width AG/RR: 200 feet · minimum lot width RC/LI: 100 feet

    “Buildings and structures to house essential service facilities shall be allowed as a conditional use as permitted by district regulations. It shall be a variance to permit a lot area less than the minimum required for the district in which such building structure is located.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Minimum building setbacks in the AG, RR, RC, and LI zoning districts of Rich Township.

    • The standards are district-specific and apply to Rich Township; they are not a countywide Cass County standard.
    • The table also lists a 5-foot accessory-structure setback in each district and highway/front-yard distances from road centerlines.

    front setback: AG 50; RR 100; RC 20; LI 20 feet from lot line · rear setback: AG 50; RR 50; RC 15; LI 20 feet from lot line · interior side setback: AG 25; RR 25; RC 10; LI 10 feet from lot line · street side setback: AG 25; RR 25; RC 20; LI 20 feet from lot line · accessory structure setback: 5 in AG, RR, RC, and LI feet from lot line

    “Front 50 100 20 20 Rear 50 50 15 20 Interior Side 25 25 10 10 Street Side 25 25 20 20”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Use of recreational vehicles, travel trailers, and other trailers for temporary occupancy within Rich Township, Cass County.

    • Temporary occupancy is limited to 30 days per year within Rich Township.
    • The rule is specific to Rich Township and should not be generalized to other Cass County townships or municipalities.

    maximum temporary occupancy: 30 days per year

    “K. Recreational Vehicles and Travel Trailers The use of recreational vehicles, travel trailers, and other trailers used for temporary occupancy shall be limited to thiry days (30) per year within the township.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In North Dakota, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Cass 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.

  • Zoning districts
  • 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 in Cass County.

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 Cass County, North Dakota

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

Cass County scores 60/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 809 people within a 30-minute drive and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: thin water margin (22.8″/yr rainfall).

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

Land in Cass County runs about $4,110 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Cass County?

Cass County gets about 22.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.2% of years.

How remote is Cass County?

A representative private-land location has about 809 people within a 30-minute drive and 459,344 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 Cass compares in North Dakota

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