Bolthole Index

Oliver County, North Dakota

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

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

Unincorporated Oliver County, North Dakota requires a building permit before new, remodeled, expanded or altered permitted and conditional uses begin, but normal agricultural uses are exempt1. County zoning and subdivision rules apply outside incorporated cities and municipal zoning areas2. Septic permits come from the local public health unit, Western Plains Public Health, not county Planning & Zoning3.

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

Yes, for most proposed development in the county-zoned area.

Yes, for most proposed development in the county-zoned area. Oliver County requires a permit before a new, remodeled, expanded or otherwise altered permitted or conditional use begins1. The application requires a scaled duplicate plat, surveyed lot dimensions and the proposed structure's size, shape and location; an unused permit is canceled if construction does not begin within six months unless an extension is granted1. Normal agricultural uses are exempt from the county building-permit requirement, but sanitation, floodplain, subdivision and other applicable rules can still apply2. North Dakota also has a narrower agricultural exemption from the state building-code chapter for buildings not used for human habitation or by the public7. We could not confirm that Oliver County separately adopted and enforces a technical construction code, so ask Planning & Zoning which inspections and code standards apply4.

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

Oliver County's Planning & Zoning Department handles county building and zoning applications.

Oliver County's Planning & Zoning Department handles county building and zoning applications4. Contact the department at 701-794-8721 or OliverCoPZ@outlook.com, or write to PO Box 188, Center, ND 585304. Building applications may be submitted at least one week before the next Planning & Zoning meeting8. The county says a building without a variance does not require a public hearing, but the Planning & Zoning Board issues it after approval by the Board of County Commissioners4. Conditional-use applications require supporting site, map, soil, utility, parking and adjacent-owner information when applicable, and the applicant must attend the public hearing1. The fee schedule approved in May 2024 lists $25 for a residential building under 500 square feet, $50 for 501 to 1,500 square feet and $100 for 1,501 square feet and up9. The current application may use different size bands, and payment is due with the application, so confirm the amount with Planning & Zoning before filing1,4. Septic permits are a separate application to Western Plains Public Health, not to this office3,10.

Does Oliver County have zoning?

Yes.

Yes. Oliver County zoning applies to unincorporated land under county jurisdiction, but not to incorporated cities or land under municipal zoning jurisdiction2. The City of Center may extend its zoning to specified land within one mile of the city limits, so confirm the actual zoning authority before relying on the county ordinance2. County district boundaries are shown on the official zoning map kept by the County Auditor2. Lot size and setbacks vary by district and use: residential subdivision lots without public sewer must be at least 150 feet wide and 45,000 square feet, while mobile-home park lots use different minimums11. Setbacks also vary, including special standards for mobile-home lots and structures near specified waters11. Ask Planning & Zoning to identify the parcel's district, allowed use, setbacks and lot standards before designing a house4.

How do septic permits work in Oliver County?

Western Plains Public Health serves Oliver County for onsite septic permitting, while the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality licenses installers.

Western Plains Public Health serves Oliver County for onsite septic permitting, while the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality licenses installers3,10. Contact Western Plains at 701.667.3370 or eh@westernplainsph.org, 403 Burlington St SE, Mandan, ND 5855410. The installer must secure the local permit before work begins and follow local codes3. Western Plains requires inspection while the system remains open, with a call 24–48 hours before completion to arrange it12. Only about 18% of Oliver County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so test feasibility before fixing the house site13. A non-farm residence also needs written approval of its proposed sanitary-disposal system, and alternative disposal methods require review when underground dispersal is infeasible2,14.

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

We could not confirm a county rule that specifically allows full-time RV occupancy, temporary private-land camping or tiny-home occupancy.

We could not confirm a county rule that specifically allows full-time RV occupancy, temporary private-land camping or tiny-home occupancy. Ask Oliver County Planning & Zoning about the parcel and proposed duration before moving in or connecting utilities4. We also could not confirm a general minimum dwelling floor area, but a tiny home is not automatically outside the permit and zoning process because new and altered permitted uses require county approval1. Manufactured homes are permitted in the county's Mobile Home Park District subject to park, lot, foundation, skirting, anchoring, water and sewer standards2. A new manufactured home installed for residential use must also use a state-licensed installer and inspector15. No general owner-builder exemption from county permits was confirmed; North Dakota's separate owner-builder provision concerns a discretionary property-tax exemption, not a permit exemption5.

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

Ask Oliver County Planning & Zoning to identify the governing jurisdiction, zoning district, allowed residential use, setbacks and minimum lot standards.

  1. Ask Oliver County Planning & Zoning to identify the governing jurisdiction, zoning district, allowed residential use, setbacks and minimum lot standards2,4.
  1. If the parcel is being split, complete county subdivision review before development; new building lots must be outside the Agricultural district unless the agricultural-division exception applies2.
  1. Confirm legal access, including written highway-authority approval where the county's highway-frontage rule applies2.
  1. Have Western Plains Public Health review the proposed septic system and obtain its permit before onsite wastewater work begins3,10.
  1. Submit the county application with the scaled plat, survey dimensions and structure details, then pay the confirmed fee1.
  1. Obtain any floodplain-development permit before work in a special flood-hazard area2.
  1. Arrange the open-system septic inspection and obtain the occupancy permit before electrical service is supplied in the county-zoned area2,12.

What should you check before buying land in Oliver County?

Confirm who zones the parcel, then obtain the district map, permitted-use rules, setbacks and buildable-area standards from Oliver County Planning & Zoning.

Confirm who zones the parcel, then obtain the district map, permitted-use rules, setbacks and buildable-area standards from Oliver County Planning & Zoning2,4. Check whether a proposed division requires preliminary and final plats, engineering review, security, county approval and recording; agricultural divisions over 10 acres without a new street can fall outside the county's subdivision definition when made for agricultural purposes2. Review flood maps because development in a special flood-hazard area needs a county permit before construction begins2. Test septic feasibility early because only about 18% of county soils avoid severe conventional-drain-field limitations13. For water, withdrawals above 12.5 acre-feet per year require a state appropriation permit, while qualifying lower-use domestic and livestock wells must be reported6. Finally, verify legal road access and any state-highway driveway approval before closing2,16.

Watch-outs

  • Normal agricultural uses are permit-exempt, but sanitation, floodplain, subdivision and other applicable rules may still apply2.
  • County zoning does not govern incorporated cities or land within applicable municipal zoning jurisdiction2.
  • An occupancy permit is required before electrical power is supplied to a building or structure in the county-zoned area2.
  • Septic inspection occurs before the open system is covered, with 24–48 hours of advance notice required12.
  • RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy and a general building-inspection schedule remain unconfirmed; ask Planning & Zoning for a parcel-specific answer4.

Sources

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

  1. Oliver County North Dakota Zoning Ordinances, Revised 2026
  2. Oliver County, North Dakota Revised Zoning Ordinances
  3. On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems
  4. Oliver County Planning & Zoning Department (olivercountynd.org)
  5. Property Tax Exemption for Builders of Certain New Single Family Residential Properties (North Dakota statewide rule)
  6. Water Appropriation Permits (North Dakota statewide rule)
  7. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 54-21.3, State Building Code (North Dakota statewide rule)
  8. Building & Zoning Permit Applications
  9. May 2, 2024 County Commission Minutes
  10. Western Plains Public Health Onsite Septic System Program (westernplainsph.org)
  11. Oliver County North Dakota Zoning Ordinances, Revised 2026
  12. Onsite Sewage Treatment System Permit for Construction/Use
  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, Section 33.1-21-01-07: General requirements (North Dakota statewide rule)
  15. Manufactured Home Installation Program (North Dakota statewide rule)
  16. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 24-01, State Highway System (North Dakota statewide rule)

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Oliver County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleOliver CountyMercer CountyMorton CountyMcLean CountyBurleigh CountyGrant CountySheridan County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsWestern Plains Public HealthWestern Plains Public HealthWestern Plains Public HealthFirst District Health UnitCounty Building/Planning/Zoning Dept.Western Plains Public HealthFirst District Health Unit

County locator

Oliver County in North Dakota

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

How Oliver County scores

51 / 100 · #21 of 53 in North Dakota · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion78100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency23100% ev.
Admin Boringness4390% ev.
Durability47100% ev.
Property Autonomy73100% ev.
Carry Cost7996% 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 →

$263kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$1,781Land / acre
17.9"Annual rain
8.9% of yrsSevere drought
6.8 / yr (+5.9)Mid-century 100°F days
19.3 daysMid-century dry spell
1.23" (+5.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.48×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,110Home insurance / yr
-0.8% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
174,443People within 2 hr
5,571Radius comparison (15 mi)
2.6People / sq mi
1%Federal land
86.1%Land at 15% slope or less
18%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
82,117 acWorkable land screen
4.2%Wooded land
37 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Oliver 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.

Answers from the rulebook for Oliver County

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

Oliver County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Structures and land uses in the area of Oliver County outside incorporated cities and adjacent areas under municipal zoning jurisdiction.

    • A building permit is required for all new uses, remodeled, expanded, or otherwise altered permitted uses, and all conditional uses.
    • No permit is required for normal agricultural uses.
    • The general compliance provision exempts minor structures; the ordinance defines a minor structure as a small, movable accessory erection or construction such as tool houses, pet houses, play equipment, and arbors.
    • All building permits must be obtained from the Planning & Zoning Department before construction.
    • Construction or exploration not begun within six months after issuance causes the permit to be cancelled unless an extension is granted.
    • The ordinance is effective from September 11, 2025.
    • The City of Center may extend its zoning regulations into qualifying unincorporated territory within one mile of its exterior city limits.

    permit commencement deadline: 6 months after issuance (unless an extension is granted)

    “No structure, land, water or air shall hereafter be used and no structure or part thereof shall hereafter be located, erected, moved, reconstructed, extended, enlarged, converted, or structurally altered without a building permit except minor structures, and without full compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance and all other applicable local, county, and state regulations.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Occupancy permits for buildings or structures in the Oliver County zoned area, particularly before electrical service is supplied.

    • The occupancy permit must certify that the building or structure conforms to the ordinance.
    • The rule applies to supplying electrical current or power in the zoned area.
    “It shall be unlawful for any association, company, person, firm, cooperative, or corporation to supply electrical current or power to any building or structure within the zoned area of Oliver County, unless an Occupancy Permit has been issued by the Land Use Administrator, certifying that building or structure is in conformance with this Ordinance.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Oliver County zoning in unincorporated areas.

    • The ordinance excludes incorporated cities and adjacent areas under their zoning jurisdiction.
    • The ordinance was effective April 7, 2016.
    “This Ordinance shall apply to the area of Oliver County, exclusive of the incorporated cities or adjacent areas under their zoning jurisdiction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning in unincorporated areas under Oliver County zoning jurisdiction.
      “This Ordinance shall apply to the area of Oliver County, exclusive of the incorporated cities or adjacent areas under their zoning jurisdiction.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate zoning across Oliver County municipalities and other local jurisdictions.

    • The county ordinance does not establish the rules of incorporated cities.
    • Municipalities may extend zoning into unincorporated territory.
    • The ordinance specifically states that the City of Center may extend its zoning regulations to quarter-quarter sections within one mile of the city limits.

    City of Center extension distance: <= 1 mile (For qualifying quarter-quarter sections of unincorporated territory)

    “Municipalities may, by ordinance, extend application of their zoning regulations to unincorporated territory located outside municipal limits.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate zoning status across Oliver County, including county-regulated unincorporated areas and incorporated cities.
      “Municipalities may, by ordinance, extend application of their zoning regulations to unincorporated territory located outside municipal limits.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Oliver County zoning districts and district-specific land-use controls outside incorporated cities.

    • The ordinance incorporates a separate District Zoning Map.
    • District-specific rules include Agricultural, Residential, Mobile Home Park, Recreational, flood-hazard, and other districts.
    • The ordinance does not apply within incorporated cities or adjacent areas under their zoning jurisdiction.
    “unincorporated areas under the zoning jurisdiction of Oliver County may be divided into any of the following districts, said districts being known as:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning districts in unincorporated areas under Oliver County zoning jurisdiction.
      “unincorporated areas under the zoning jurisdiction of Oliver County may be divided into any of the following districts”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    County subdivisions and zoning districts.

    • Minimum lot area is determined by site and soil capability in the cited district provision and may not be less than 20,000 square feet.
    • Residential subdivision lots not served by public sewer must be at least 150 feet wide and 45,000 square feet.
    • Mobile-home park lots have separate 5,000- and 6,000-square-foot minimums.

    minimum lot area: >= 20000 square feet · unsewered residential subdivision lot area: >= 45000 square feet · unsewered residential subdivision lot width: >= 150 feet

    “Minimum lot area shall be determined by site and soil capability regulations (see Section 13). Under no circumstances shall a lot area be less than 20,000 square feet.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Lots in specified Oliver County zoning districts, including mobile-home park and soil-capability districts.
      “2. Soils Division II a. Minimum width - one hundred (100) feet b. Minimum area - twenty thousand (20,000) square feet 3. Soil Division III a. Minimum width - one hundred fifty (150) feet b. Minimum area - forty thousand (40,000) square feet”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Structures and uses governed by Oliver County zoning districts and subdivision regulations.

    • Setbacks vary by zoning district and use.
    • Mobile-home lots require a front yard of at least 25 feet and side-yard separation of at least 10 feet.
    • A 100-foot shoreline separation applies to structures near specified water areas.

    mobile-home front setback: >= 25 feet · mobile-home side setback: >= 10 feet · shoreline structure setback: >= 100 feet (from the natural shoreline of streams, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, or other water areas)

    “A minimum of one hundred (100) feet shall be maintained between all structures and the natural shoreline of streams, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, or other water areas.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Lot coverage in residential and mobile-home park districts.

    • Single-family principal and accessory buildings may occupy no more than 40 percent of the lot.
    • Multiple-family buildings may cover no more than 50 percent; buildings of three or more stories may cover no more than 40 percent.
    • Mobile-home lots have a separate 50-percent coverage rule and parking-area addition.

    single-family maximum coverage: <= 40 percent · multiple-family maximum coverage: <= 50 percent (three or more stories limited to 40 percent) · mobile-home-lot maximum coverage: <= 50 percent (includes specified parking-area addition)

    “Single-family dwellings - the principle building and all accessory buildings shall not occupy more than forty (40) per cent of the lot. Multiple-family dwellings - the principle building and all accessory buildings shall not cover more than fifty (50) per cent of the lot. Buildings of three (3) or more stories shall not cover more than forty (40) per cent of the lot.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings in Oliver County zoning districts.

    • Single-family dwellings may not exceed 2.5 stories or 35 feet.
    • Multiple-family principal structures may not exceed 50 feet and accessory structures 25 feet.
    • Mobile homes and other structures in the mobile-home park district may not exceed 35 feet.

    single-family maximum height: <= 35 feet (maximum 2.5 stories) · multiple-family principal maximum height: <= 50 feet · multiple-family accessory maximum height: <= 25 feet

    “No single-family dwelling shall exceed two and one-half (2 1/2) stories, nor shall it exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height. 2. Multiple-family dwelling - a. Principle structures shall not exceed fifty (50) feet b. Accessory structures shall not exceed twenty-five (25) feet”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Recreational vehicle parks in the county Recreational District.

    • The use is expressly temporary or seasonal only.
    • Minimum campsite area is 2,500 square feet.
    • One comfort station is required per 30 campsites.
    • Approved water supply, waste disposal, and camper disposal facilities are required as specified.

    minimum campsite area: 2500 square feet · comfort station ratio: per 1 per 30 campsites

    “Recreational Vehicle Park (temporary or seasonal use only).”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes in the Oliver County Mobile Home Park District within county zoning jurisdiction.

    • The Mobile Home Park District permits mobile homes with permanent foundation stands.
    • Minimum park size is four acres.
    • Single-wide lots require at least 50 feet width and 5,000 square feet.
    • Double-wide lots require at least 60 feet width and 6,000 square feet.
    • Lot coverage may not exceed 50 percent and is subject to the stated storm-shed and parking calculation.
    • Mobile-home parks require approved central water and sewer systems.
    • Mobile homes must have permanent foundation stands, skirts, and anchoring.

    minimum mobile home park size: >= 4 acres · minimum single-wide lot width: >= 50 feet · minimum single-wide lot area: >= 5000 square feet · minimum double-wide lot width: >= 60 feet · minimum double-wide lot area: >= 6000 square feet · maximum mobile-home lot coverage: <= 50 percent

    “Mobile homes with permanent foundation stands”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater in Oliver County: North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality licenses installers, while the local public health unit issues the local permit and local codes apply.

    • The official Western Plains page identifies services in Oliver County but does not name a county-specific adopting authority.
    • NDDEQ states that installers must secure a permit from the local public health unit before work begins.
    “secure a permit from their local public health unit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Onsite sewage treatment systems in Oliver County.
      “Services Provided In Grant, Mercer, Morton, Oliver and Sioux Counties”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Inspection of an onsite sewage system before the open system is covered.

    • The permit holder must call 24–48 hours before system completion to arrange inspection.
    • The cited record concerns an onsite sewage system in Oliver County.

    inspection notice: 24-48 hours before system completion

    “Western Plains Public Health requires an inspection of the open system before it is covered. Please call 24-48 hours in advance of system completion to set up inspection.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Onsite and other off-grid sanitation systems in the county zoning jurisdiction.

    • Non-farm residences require written approval of the proposed sanitary disposal system by the Custer Health District.
    • Mobile-home park lots must be served by a North Dakota State Health Department-approved central water and sewer system.
    • In special flood-hazard areas, onsite waste disposal systems must be located to avoid impairment or contamination during flooding.
    “On-site waste disposal systems shall be located to avoid impairment to them or contamination from them during flooding.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer (with conditions)

    Mobile home park lots in the Oliver County Mobile Home Park District.

    • The water and sewer system must be approved by the North Dakota State Health Department.
    • The rule applies to mobile home parks, not every residential parcel.
    “All mobile home park lots shall be served by a North Dakota State Health Department approved central water and sewer system.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Normal agricultural uses and agricultural land uses under the county zoning ordinance.

    • The ordinance excludes agricultural use except as later noted.
    • Normal agricultural uses do not require a building permit.
    • Agricultural subdivision of parcels over 10 acres without a new street is excluded from the subdivision definition.

    agricultural subdivision parcel size: > 10 acres (no new street)

    “Regulate the use of all structures and land, with the exception of agricultural use except as hereafter noted, within Oliver County;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Normal agricultural uses within the Oliver County zoning jurisdiction.
      “No regulation or restriction, however, 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 and resubdivision of land within Oliver County zoning jurisdiction.

    • No subdivision or resubdivision may occur without compliance with Section 20 and the ordinance.
    • New lots for building development must be in a district other than Agricultural.
    • Agricultural land divided for agricultural purposes into parcels over 10 acres without a new street is not a subdivision.
    • The process includes preliminary and final plat submissions, Planning Commission review, a performance bond, County Engineer approval, Board of County Commissioners approval, and recording with the Register of Deeds.

    agricultural division threshold: > 10 acres (Must be for agricultural purposes and must not involve a new street) · preliminary/final plat filing lead time: >= 10 days (Before the meeting at which the plat is considered)

    “No person shall cause or create a subdivision or resubdivision of land unless having complied with the provisions of this Section 20”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision or resubdivision of land for immediate or future transfer, sale, lease, or building development.
      “No person shall cause or create a subdivision or resubdivision of land unless having complied with the provisions of this Section 20 and the other requirements of this Ordinance.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Lots abutting state or federal highways in applicable Oliver County zoning districts.

    • Access is limited to one per quarter mile.
    • The landowner must provide a frontage road or deed to the nearest quarter-mile public-highway access point.
    • Written approval from appropriate highway authorities must be provided to the Planning Commission.

    highway access frequency: per 1 per quarter mile

    “When a lot abuts state or federal highways: 1. Access shall be limited to one per quarter mile. 2. The landowner shall provide for frontage road or deed to nearest quarter mile access point to a public highway. 3. Written evidence or approval by appropriate highway authorities shall be provided to the Planning Commission.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction and development within areas of special flood hazard under Oliver County jurisdiction.

    • The ordinance applies to all areas of special flood hazard within Oliver County jurisdiction identified on FEMA's FIRM dated September 30, 1987 and subsequent revisions.
    • A permit must be obtained from the Land Use Administrator before construction or development begins.
    • The permit requires lowest-floor and floodproofing elevations, professional certification for nonresidential floodproofing, and a description of watercourse alteration or relocation.
    • Permit review must consider site safety, required federal/state/local approvals, and effects on flood-carrying capacity.
    • If adverse effects are found, technical justification such as a registered professional engineer is required.

    FIRM reference date: September 30, 1987 (Subsequent revisions also apply)

    “Before any construction or development begins within an area of special flood hazard, a permit shall be obtained from the Land Use Administrator”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction and development within areas of special flood hazard identified on FEMA's FIRM for Oliver County.
      “Before any construction or development begins within an area of special flood hazard, a permit shall be obtained from the Land Use Administrator, hereafter referred to as the responsible person.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Oliver County planning and zoning permit fees listed in the May 2, 2024 county minutes.

    • The cited fee schedule was approved in the county minutes on May 2, 2024.
    • Other zoning permits include conditional-use, temporary-use, zoning-change, and variance fees.

    residential permit under 500 square feet: 25 USD · residential permit 501-1500 square feet: 50 USD · residential permit 1501 square feet and up: 100 USD · commercial permit: 100 USD · industrial permit: 100 USD · agricultural permit: 100 USD · wind turbine permit: per 500 USD per turbine

    “Building Permits Residential – Less Than 500 Sq Ft | $25.00 Residential – 501-1500 Sq Ft | $50.00 Residential – 1501 and up Sq Ft | $100.00 Commercial | $100.00 Industrial | $100.00 Agricultural | $100.00 Wind Turbines | $500 per turbine”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Oliver County building and zoning permit application timing and submission process.

    • Conditional-use, zoning-change, and ordinance-amendment applications are due at least three weeks before the next Planning and Zoning meeting.
    • The three-week deadline allows the required two-week public notice.
    • Building permits may be submitted at least one week before the next meeting.
    • Applicants are directed to review the county zoning ordinance if unsure of zone or project type.

    conditional-use/zoning-change/ordinance-amendment deadline: >= 3 weeks before next meeting (allows two-week notice) · building-permit deadline: >= 1 week before next meeting

    “Deadlines for Conditional Use, Zoning Change and Ordinance Amendment applications are at minimum three weeks prior to the next Planning & Zoning Meeting, to allow the proper two week notice to be published, prior to the next meeting. [...] Building Permits may be submitted at least one week prior to the next Planning & Zoning Meeting Date.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic

North Dakota rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An individual who builds that individual’s own single-family residence and seeks the North Dakota 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
    • Adopted (with conditions) — North Dakota State Building Code relevant to construction in Oliver County.
      “The new North Dakota State Building Code will go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.”
    • 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.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Onsite wastewater system installation in Oliver County under the statewide licensing and local-public-health permitting framework.

    • The installer must obtain a state license at no cost.
    • The installer must secure a permit from the local public health unit before beginning work.
    • Local codes apply.
    “secure a permit from their local public health unit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation of an onsite wastewater treatment system anywhere in North Dakota.
      “Installers must obtain both a state license and a local public health permit before beginning work.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping in Oliver County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in Oliver County.
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory-dwelling occupancy in Oliver 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 Oliver County, North Dakota

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

Oliver County scores 51/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 5,571 people within 15 miles. Watch-outs: thin water margin (17.9″/yr rainfall).

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

Land in Oliver County runs about $1,781 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Oliver County?

Oliver County gets about 17.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.9% of years.

How remote is Oliver County?

A typical private-land location has about 5,571 people within 15 miles and 272,544 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Oliver compares in North Dakota

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