ADU Rules in Dickinson, North Dakota

Dickinson is the county seat of Stark County and the largest city in western North Dakota, located along the Heart River in the transition zone between the Great Plains and the North Dakota Badlands. The city serves as a regional service hub for agriculture, oil production, and tourism related to the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Unit) and the Badlands landscape.

Dickinson State University (DSU) anchors the local education sector, and the city's economy is tied closely to the cycles of the oil industry, which brought dramatic growth during the Bakken boom years.

No Statewide ADU Law — Local Zoning Controls

North Dakota has not enacted statewide legislation preempting or standardizing local ADU regulations. All rules governing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Dickinson are set exclusively by the City of Dickinson Zoning Ordinance. There is no state mandate requiring Dickinson to allow ADUs or restricting local regulatory authority over them.

ADU Types Potentially Allowed

Dickinson's zoning code may allow these ADU configurations in residential districts:

• Detached ADUs — a separate accessory structure built on the same lot as the primary residence
• Attached ADUs — living space added to the primary dwelling sharing at least one wall
• Garage conversions — converting an existing garage (attached or detached) into a habitable dwelling unit
• Basement/interior ADUs — a self-contained unit created within the existing structure's interior space

The specific ADU types allowed depend on the zoning district assigned to your parcel. Contact the Dickinson planning office to confirm what is permitted in your zone.

Typical Development Standards

ADUs in Dickinson are generally subject to requirements including:

• Minimum lot size — a minimum lot area is typically required before an ADU can be added
• Maximum ADU size — commonly limited as a percentage of the primary dwelling's gross floor area or an absolute maximum (e.g., 800–1,000 sq ft)
• Setbacks — rear and side yard setbacks apply; detached rear-yard ADUs typically require at least 5 feet from property lines
• Height limits — detached ADUs are generally limited to one story or the accessory structure height limit for the applicable zone
• Parking — one additional off-street parking space may be required for ADU occupants
• Utilities — proper connections for water, sewer, and electrical service are required per city codes

Confirm all specific standards with the City of Dickinson planning office before designing or permitting an ADU.

Heart River and Flood Zone Considerations

The Heart River flows through Dickinson, and FEMA-mapped flood zones exist along the river corridor. Properties near the Heart River may be in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). ADU construction within a mapped flood zone requires:

• A floodplain development permit from the City in addition to a standard building permit
• Finished floor elevations at or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
• Compliance with Dickinson's floodplain management regulations

Verify your parcel's current flood zone designation via the FEMA Flood Map Service Center or the City Engineer's office before planning any new construction.

Bakken Oil Boom Legacy

Dickinson grew significantly during the Bakken oil boom (approximately 2008–2014). Housing demand outpaced supply, leading to rapid and sometimes improvised development including manufactured homes and temporary worker accommodations. Since the boom moderated, the city has worked to integrate this housing stock into its regulatory framework. Some boom-era structures may have non-conforming status under current zoning. If you are considering converting or adding onto a structure built during the boom era, verify its permit history and conformance status with the city.

Extreme Climate Requirements

Dickinson experiences the harsh continental climate of western North Dakota, with winter temperatures regularly dropping below −20°F. Blizzard conditions are common. All ADU construction must comply with North Dakota building codes requiring:

• Foundation depth: Footings must extend at least 42–60 inches below grade to clear the frost line
• Insulation: High-performance insulation required for walls, roofs, and foundation assemblies
• Heating systems: Mechanical systems must be designed and sized for extreme cold-weather operation

Permit Process

1. Confirm your property's zoning district and ADU eligibility with the city planning office
2. Verify flood zone status for parcels near the Heart River
3. Obtain any required zoning approvals or conditional use permits
4. Submit a building permit application with complete construction drawings
5. Schedule all required inspections throughout the construction process

Contact Information

City of Dickinson Planning and Zoning

• Website: dickinsongov.com
• Address: City Hall, 99 1st Street West, Dickinson, ND 58601
• Phone: (701) 456-7700

Disclaimer: Zoning regulations change frequently. The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current rules. Always verify ADU requirements directly with the City of Dickinson's planning office and consult a licensed architect or contractor before beginning any project.