Overview of North Dakota Fire Code
North Dakota's fire code is administered by the State Fire Marshal under the Office of the Attorney General. North Dakota adopts the IFC statewide through North Dakota Administrative Code.
The State Fire Marshal has authority over fire prevention inspections, investigations, and statewide enforcement. Local departments in Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks also conduct fire prevention.
ND priorities include Bakken oil field facilities, extreme cold climate fire safety (sprinkler freeze protection, heating system safety), and growing restaurant scenes in Fargo and Bismarck.
Adopted Codes and Enforcement
Adopted Codes: IFC statewide, IBC for construction, NFPA 13/72/96.
State Fire Marshal Responsibilities (NDCC §18-01): Statewide fire code enforcement, inspections, fire investigation, regulation of fire protection contractors.
Violations: Fire code violations can result in orders to correct and civil penalties.
Occupancy and Key Requirements
Standard IBC occupancy load factors. NFPA 13/72/96 compliance. Extreme cold considerations for sprinkler systems — anti-freeze protection mandatory in unheated spaces.
NOWAITN helps ND businesses maintain compliance through occupancy tracking and certification management.
North Dakota-Specific Resources
ND State Fire Marshal Office of the Attorney General 600 E. Boulevard Ave., Dept. 125 Bismarck, ND 58505 Phone: (701) 328-5555 https://attorneygeneral.nd.gov/public-safety/state-fire-marshal/
Key Local Fire Authorities:
- Fargo Fire Department: (701) 241-1565
- Bismarck Fire Department: (701) 355-1420
- Grand Forks Fire Department: (701) 746-2566