Bolthole Index

LaMoure County, North Dakota

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

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

LaMoure County, North Dakota does not have a confirmed countywide residential building-permit rule; building permits and zoning approval depend on the township or incorporated city1,2. Septic authority does not shift with those local boundaries: Central Valley Health District issues septic permits throughout LaMoure County, while North Dakota DEQ licenses installers3,4.

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

LaMoure County does not have a confirmed countywide residential building-permit requirement for unincorporated land.

LaMoure County does not have a confirmed countywide residential building-permit requirement for unincorporated land1. A city, county or township that elects to enforce building codes must use the North Dakota State Building Code, but the state agency does not enforce it locally8. No official source confirmed whether LaMoure County itself adopted that code, so ask the Auditor for the parcel's township and contact that township before designing or ordering materials2. Agricultural buildings used for agricultural purposes are exempt from the state building-code chapter unless used for human habitation or by the public, though local land-use and other rules may still apply9. A separate farming exemption applies to county subdivision regulation, not automatically to building, zoning, health or floodplain requirements10.

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

There is no confirmed single LaMoure County office issuing residential building permits countywide; a township or incorporated city may issue building permits and zoning approval under its local rules.

There is no confirmed single LaMoure County office issuing residential building permits countywide; a township or incorporated city may issue building permits and zoning approval under its local rules1,2. Start with the LaMoure County Auditor at (701) 883-5304, PO Box 128, 202 4th Ave NE, LaMoure, ND 58458; the county publishes township contacts and identifies which townships have zoning2. Central Valley Health District, not the township or city building office, issues septic permits throughout LaMoure County3. The Road Department handles county-road driveway and utility permits at (701) 883-5131 or dnitschke@nd.gov11. The Floodplain Administrator takes floodplain permit applications at (701) 883-6096 or krobbins@nd.gov11. Published county fees cover utility right-of-way permits and subdivision plats, not a general residential building-permit fee schedule12.

Does LaMoure County have zoning?

Zoning varies across LaMoure County: 18 of its 32 townships have zoning ordinances, while incorporated municipalities administer their own zoning.

Zoning varies across LaMoure County: 18 of its 32 townships have zoning ordinances, while incorporated municipalities administer their own zoning2. The available official material does not confirm a separate countywide zoning ordinance, so ask the Auditor to identify the parcel's township and obtain the current ordinance and township contact2. Countywide rules for setbacks, lot size, building height, minimum dwelling size, RV occupancy and tiny-home occupancy could not be confirmed; ask the applicable township or city before relying on a proposed use. Building permits and zoning approval may change at township or city boundaries, but septic permits remain with Central Valley Health District throughout LaMoure County1,3.

How do septic permits work in LaMoure County?

Central Valley Health District issues septic permits and conducts septic inspections in LaMoure County, while North Dakota DEQ licenses installers.

Central Valley Health District issues septic permits and conducts septic inspections in LaMoure County, while North Dakota DEQ licenses installers3,4. The installer must obtain the septic permit from the local public-health unit before work begins and follow local codes4. Contact Central Valley Health District before fixing the house site or drainfield location3. About 75% of county soils are mapped without severe limitations for a conventional septic drainfield, although a parcel evaluation is still necessary13. Off-grid sanitation alternatives could not be confirmed, so ask the district what design review and inspections the proposed system requires.

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

A countywide rule allowing or prohibiting RV residence on private land in LaMoure County could not be confirmed.

A countywide rule allowing or prohibiting RV residence on private land in LaMoure County could not be confirmed. Tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size and temporary camping on private land also remain unconfirmed. Because 18 of the county's 32 townships have zoning ordinances, ask the Auditor which township controls the parcel and then ask that township about dwelling type, duration, utilities and setbacks2. Do not use North Dakota's state-park camping limit as an answer for private land because that rule applies only to state-park campsites and cabins14. A new manufactured home used as a residence must be installed and inspected by state-licensed professionals, but that installation rule does not settle local zoning approval15.

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

Ask the LaMoure County Auditor to identify the parcel's township and provide its contact and zoning status.

  1. Ask the LaMoure County Auditor to identify the parcel's township and provide its contact and zoning status2.
  1. Ask the township or city whether the project needs zoning approval, a building permit, inspections or a certificate of occupancy; those countywide requirements could not be confirmed1,2.
  1. Contact Central Valley Health District before siting the house because its septic permit must be secured before septic work begins, regardless of which township or city handles building permits and zoning approval3,4.
  1. For access involving a county road, submit the driveway permit application to the County Highway Department and wait for issuance before starting work; township-road access may be administered separately7,11.
  1. If the county floodplain permit applies, submit the application to the County Emergency Manager and wait for issuance before starting work6,11.
  1. Ask the enforcing jurisdiction for building-permit and plan-review fees; LaMoure County's published fees cover utility right-of-way permits and subdivision plats, not a general residential building-permit schedule12,16.

What should you check before buying land in LaMoure County?

Confirm township zoning, legal access, floodplain status, septic feasibility and water before closing.

Confirm township zoning, legal access, floodplain status, septic feasibility and water before closing. Covered development in a designated floodplain requires the county permit before work begins6. Driveway access involving a county road requires an application and permit before work begins; ask the township separately when access is from a township road7. About 98.9% of county land has a slope of 15% or less, while about 75% of soils are mapped without severe limits for a conventional drainfield13. Annual precipitation averages about 21.7 inches, and severe drought occurs in about 9.6% of years, making well yield worth investigating13. A water-appropriation permit is required above 12.5 acre-feet per year, while qualifying lower-use wells must still be reported to the Department of Water Resources17.

Watch-outs

  • LaMoure County confirms township zoning but does not expressly confirm whether a separate countywide zoning ordinance exists; ask the Auditor and the parcel's township2.
  • Covered floodplain development requires a permit before work begins, and the permit process may require final inspection and approval before occupancy6.
  • Private-land RV living, tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size and an owner-builder exemption from building rules could not be confirmed; ask the parcel's township before committing to a plan2.

Sources

17 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 7, 2026

  1. ND DEQ - Kennison Township (LaMoure County) Zoning Ordinance (2026 county census)
  2. LaMoure County Townships
  3. Environmental Health
  4. Septic Systems
  5. Property Tax Exemption for Builders of Certain New Single Family Residential Properties (North Dakota statewide rule)
  6. Permits
  7. Driveway Application & Permit
  8. Building Codes | Commerce | North Dakota
  9. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 54-21.3, State Building Code (North Dakota statewide rule)
  10. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 11-33.2: Subdivision Regulation
  11. LaMoure County Road Department (lamourecountynd.com)
  12. LaMoure County Utility Permit
  13. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  14. North Dakota Administrative Code, Chapter 58-02-08, State Park Rules (North Dakota statewide rule)
  15. Manufactured Home Installation Program (North Dakota statewide rule)
  16. 2026 North Dakota State Building Code Book (North Dakota statewide rule)
  17. Water Appropriation Permits (North Dakota statewide rule)

Written October 7, 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 5 of its 6 neighbors, LaMoure County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleLaMoure CountyDickey CountyStutsman CountyBarnes CountyRansom CountyLogan CountySargent County
Building permitLimitedRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredNot required
County zoningYesYesYesYesNot publishedYesNo
Septic permitsCentral Valley Health DistrictCentral Valley Health DistrictCentral Valley Health DistrictND DEQFargo Cass Public HealthND Dept. of Env. QualityND Dept. of Env. Quality

County locator

LaMoure County in North Dakota

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

How LaMoure County scores

51 / 100 · #20 of 53 in North Dakota · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency20100% ev.
Admin Boringness5690% ev.
Durability44100% ev.
Property Autonomy73100% ev.
Carry Cost8094% 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 →

$145kTypical home
1%Property tax
$3,133Land / acre
21.7"Annual rain
9.6% of yrsSevere drought
4.4 / yr (+3.9)Mid-century 100°F days
20.8 daysMid-century dry spell
1.54" (+7.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.59×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
state median fallbackInsurance basis
1,407People within 30 min
270,809People within 2 hr
2,145Radius comparison (15 mi)
3.6People / sq mi
23.3%Federal land
98.9%Land at 15% slope or less
75%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
542,715 acWorkable land screen
0.7%Wooded land
15.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
41.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in LaMoure 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: Adrian Township · Badger Township · Berlin · Black Loam Township · Bluebird Township · Dean Township · Gladstone Township · Glen Township · Glenmore Township · Golden Glen Township · Grand Rapids Township · Grandview Township · Greenville Township · Henrietta Township · Kennison Township · LaMoure · Litchville Township · Marion · Mikkelson Township · Nora Township · Norden Township · Ovid Township · Pearl Lake Township · Pomona View Township · Prairie Township · Raney Township · Ray Township · Roscoe Township · Russell Township · Ryan Township · Saratoga Township · Sheridan Township · Swede Township · Verona · Wano Township · Willowbank Township

Answers from the rulebook for LaMoure County

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

LaMoure County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of township zoning in LaMoure County; zoning is administered by individual townships, not by the county itself

    • Only 18 of the 32 townships have zoning ordinances per the county's list updated December 27, 2024
    • The 14 other townships were not shown to have zoning ordinances; the linked township zoning list document was not read
    • Incorporated cities may have their own rules

    townships with zoning ordinances: 18 townships · total townships: 32 townships

    “the document below shows which 18 lamoure county townships have zoning ordinances (updated december 27, 2024).”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of township and incorporated-municipality zoning within LaMoure County; the county page states that 18 of its 32 townships have zoning ordinances, while municipal zoning is separately administered.
      “The document below shows which 18 LaMoure County Townships have Zoning Ordinances (updated December 27, 2024).”
    • Varies (with conditions) — The countywide aggregate of local land-use regulation in LaMoure County, where zoning is administered through township ordinances rather than treated here as a county-administered ordinance.
      “There are 32 LaMoure County Townships: [...] The document below shows which 18 LaMoure County Townships have Zoning Ordinances (updated December 27, 2024).”
    • Varies (with conditions) — The county aggregate of local land-use regulation, including township and municipal jurisdictions within LaMoure County.
      “There are 32 LaMoure County Townships: [...] The document below shows which 18 LaMoure County Townships have Zoning Ordinances (updated December 27, 2024).”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    On-site sewage treatment system permitting and inspection in LaMoure County as part of Central Valley Health District's eight-county service region.

    • Central Valley Health District's Environmental Health Division permits and/or inspects on-site sewage treatment systems.
    • The district's stated region includes LaMoure County.
    • A North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality installer license is also required before work begins.
    “The Region includes [...] LaMoure [...] On-site Sewage Treatment Systems are permitted and/or inspected by the Environmental Health Division.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of onsite sewage treatment systems in LaMoure County served by Central Valley Health District.

    • The installer must also obtain the required North Dakota DEQ installer license.
    • The permit must be secured from the local public health unit before work begins.
    • Installers must follow local codes.
    “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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — On-site wastewater treatment system installation in LaMoure County.
      “All installers must obtain a license from the department, which is issued at no cost, and secure a permit from their local public health unit before beginning work on a system.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Existing onsite sewage treatment systems in LaMoure County served by Central Valley Health District.

    • The official page states that inspections are provided, but does not state that every existing system must undergo inspection.
    • The program covers septic tanks, drainfields, seepage pits, holding tanks, and repairs or replacements.
    “In addition to permitting, inspections of existing septic systems is provided to help prevent water contamination and waterborne illness.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New, modified, or removed private, commercial, or agricultural driveway access on a LaMoure County highway right-of-way.

    • The application requires the work to comply with the attached specifications.
    • No work may start until the application is approved and the permit issued.
    • The applicant bears construction and improvement costs.
    • The driveway is subject to county supervision and final inspection.

    driveway side slope: 6:1

    “No work under this application is to be started until the application is approved and the permit issued. [...] Driveway side slopes shall be constructed 6:1. No construction shall be considered as completed until checked and approved by the County Highway Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Driveway access involving LaMoure County roads.
      “No work under this application is to be started until the application is approved and the permit issued.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development within designated floodplains in LaMoure County.

    • The permit applies to all activities within designated floodplains, including buildings, grading, excavation, drilling, mobile homes, campgrounds, and storage activities.
    • No work may begin until issuance.
    • Development may not be used or occupied until final inspection, final elevation, and community approval.
    • The permit expires if work has not commenced within three months of issuance and by the permit expiration date.
    • Other local, state, and federal permits may be required.
    “Any party undertaking development within a designated floodplain must obtain a floodplain development permit prior to the work commencing.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Floodplain development in LaMoure County where the county floodplain-development permit applies.
      “Any party undertaking development within a designated floodplain must obtain a floodplain development permit prior to the work commencing.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Published LaMoure County fees for utility right-of-way permits and subdivision plat recording.

    • Utility crossing fees are $25 for boring and $50 for open cut.
    • Utility right-of-way access fee is $200 maintenance plus $25 per mile.
    • Subdivision plat fees are $20 for lots 1–20 and $50 for more than 20 lots.

    utility boring crossing fee: 25 USD · utility open-cut crossing fee: 50 USD · utility right-of-way maintenance fee: 200 USD (plus $25 per mile) · subdivision plat fee for lots 1–20: 20 USD · subdivision plat fee for more than 20 lots: 50 USD

    “Grantee shall pay a fee as follows: Crossing fee: $25.00 boring fee $50.00 open cut Right-of-Way access fee: $200.00 maintenance fee, plus $25.00 per mile.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County utility permits for crossings and access to county roads or rights-of-way.
      “Grantee shall pay a fee as follows: Crossing fee: $25.00 boring fee $50.00 open cut Right-of-Way access fee: $200.00 maintenance fee, plus $25.00 per mile.”
  • Permit processPartial

    County driveway/access and floodplain-development permits.

    • Driveway applications and fees are submitted to the County Highway Department.
    • No driveway work may begin until approval and permit issuance.
    • Floodplain development requires submission to the County Emergency Manager and no work may begin until issuance.
    • Other local, state, and federal permits may also be required.
    “Floodplain Development Permit Submission Complete the application and submit by email to krobbins@nd.gov, or mail/drop off to: LaMoure County Emergency Manager, 202 4th Ave NE, LaMoure, ND 58458 (drop at the Courthouse to the Auditor's office).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — County utility, driveway, and floodplain-development permit processes.
      “Floodplain Development Permit Submission Complete the application and submit by email to krobbins@nd.gov, or mail/drop off to: LaMoure County Emergency Manager, 202 4th Ave NE, LaMoure, ND 58458 (drop at the Courthouse to the Auditor's office).”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Zoning in LaMoure County is administered at the township level rather than by a single county-wide ordinance; at least Kennison Township has an adopted zoning ordinance on file with ND DEQ.

    ND DEQ - Kennison Township (LaMoure County) Zoning Ordinance ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

North Dakota rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Statewide statutory framework for construction, erection, reconstruction, alteration, repair, or enlargement of a building or structure subject to county zoning.

    • A county board may choose to authorize permits; the statute does not itself impose a universal statewide county building-permit requirement.
    • If a county provides for permits, the applicant must state whether the structure is reasonably anticipated to significantly affect the transportation system. A significant impact means average daily use over one year of at least 25 motor vehicles with gross weight over 60,000 pounds [27215.54 kilograms].
    • For a significant transportation impact, the county must notify the Department of Transportation director and allow comment, but the director's approval is not required.
    • A county may establish and collect reasonable permit fees.
    • North Dakota Commerce states that enforcement of the State Building Code is the responsibility of jurisdictions that elect to adopt and enforce building codes; a city, county, or township that elects to do so must adopt and enforce the State Building Code, subject to local amendments.

    significant transportation impact threshold: >= 25 motor vehicles per average day over one year (Vehicles must have gross weight exceeding 60,000 pounds [27215.54 kilograms].)

    “The board of county commissioners may authorize and provide for the issuance of permits as a prerequisite to construction”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An individual who builds that individual’s own single-family residence and seeks the North Dakota builder property-tax exemption.

    • The exemption is discretionary and requires the governing city or county to pass a resolution allowing it.
    • For property within a city, the city governing body has jurisdiction; for property outside an incorporated city, the county has jurisdiction.
    • The property must remain owned by the builder and unoccupied.
    • The exemption applies for the taxable year in which construction began and the next two taxable years.
    • The governing body may impose conditions, including limits on the exemption period and dollar value.
    • A builder may receive the exemption for no more than ten properties in a taxable year within each jurisdiction that approved the exemption.
    • General taxes and installments of special assessments may not be delinquent.
    • This is a property-tax exemption, not a building-permit or building-inspection exemption.

    exemption period: taxable year in which construction began and next two taxable years · maximum properties per builder per jurisdiction per taxable year: 10 properties

    “Whether or not to offer the exemption is at the discretion of the governing body. [...] “Builder” includes an individual who builds that individual’s own residence.”
  • 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — North Dakota building-code framework applicable only where a city, county, or township elects 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.”
  • 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 — Farming and normal incidents of farming in relation to county subdivision regulation.
      “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.”
    • 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.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in North Dakota counties that adopt and enforce subdivision regulations under N.D.C.C. chapter 11-33.2; the statute does not apply to subdivisions within city corporate limits or areas of extraterritorial zoning jurisdiction.

    • A county board of commissioners is empowered, but not required, to regulate subdivision.
    • A county subdivision resolution may provide for plat submission and preliminary and final approval.
    • A county may require public improvements and surety or other security as a condition of final plat approval.
    • A county may approve plats as a prerequisite to subdivision and may establish and collect reasonable fees credited to the county general fund.
    • If plat approval is required, final approval or disapproval requires recommendations from both the county planning commission and the township supervisors, although those recommendations are not binding; if township supervisors do not respond within sixty days after notification, the county may take final action.
    • Subdivision rules may not prohibit or prevent farming or the normal incidents of farming.
    • The statute separately requires floodplain and water-feature information on plats where applicable.

    township recommendation response period: 60 days (If the county does not receive the township supervisors' recommendation by certified mail within sixty days after notification, it may take final action.) · plat approval fee: reasonable fees text (The statute authorizes fees but does not set a statewide amount.)

    “For the purpose of promoting health, safety, morals, public convenience, general prosperity, and public welfare, the board of county commissioners of any county is hereby empowered to regulate and restrict within the county the subdivision of land.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in North Dakota, subject to county adoption and administration of subdivision regulations; the statute excludes subdivisions within city corporate limits and areas subject to a city's extraterritorial zoning jurisdiction.
      “For the purpose of promoting health, safety, morals, public convenience, general prosperity, and public welfare, the board of county commissioners of any county is hereby empowered to regulate and restrict within the county the subdivision of land.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — North Dakota's statewide statutory framework authorizing county regulation of land subdivision; actual regulation depends on county action and does not apply within city corporate limits or applicable extraterritorial zoning areas.
      “the board of county commissioners of any county is hereby empowered to regulate and restrict within the county the subdivision of land.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — County subdivision regulation authority throughout North Dakota, subject to exclusions for city corporate limits and applicable city extraterritorial zoning jurisdiction.
      “the board of county commissioners of any county is hereby empowered to regulate and restrict within the county the subdivision of land.”
  • 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.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In North Dakota, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so LaMoure 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
  • Minimum lot size
  • Living in an RV
  • 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 LaMoure 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 LaMoure County, North Dakota

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

LaMoure County scores 51/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 1,407 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (21.7″/yr rainfall).

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

Land in LaMoure County runs about $3,133 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in LaMoure County?

LaMoure County gets about 21.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9.6% of years.

How remote is LaMoure County?

A representative private-land location has about 1,407 people within a 30-minute drive and 270,809 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 LaMoure compares in North Dakota

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