Accessory Structures in Horace, ND: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Horace or are thinking about moving there, accessory structures are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Horace has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of accessory structures, and some of them might surprise you.

Shed Rules

Sheds are accessory structures under Horace Title IV §4-5.1, with cumulative footprint capped by lot acreage per Table 4-5.1.A.6 (5,500 sq ft on a 4.1-5 ac SR-1 lot). Title V adopts the NDSBC; IRC §R105.2 exempts one-story sheds 200 sq ft or less from a building permit.

Key details: Code Citation: Title IV §4-5.1, Table 4-5.1.A.6. SR-1 4.1-5 ac Cap: 5,500 sq ft total. State Code: NDSBC / 2021 IRC §R105.2. Permit Exemption: Under 200 sq ft, no electric. Permitting Office: Building Permits & Inspections.

Title IV violations are enforced by Community Development under Chapter 4-8: written notice, cure period, then citation as a municipal infraction. Building without a permit triggers stop-work orders and double-permit-fee penalties; structures over the Table 4-5.1.A.6 limit need a variance.

ADU Rules

Horace may permit accessory dwelling units under local zoning ordinances. ADU adoption varies in North Dakota with larger cities more likely to have established ADU provisions than rural communities.

Key details: Max Size: 800 to 1,000 sq ft typical. Owner Occupancy: May be required. Permit: Building permit required. State Authority: NDCC §40-47 zoning.

Unpermitted ADU: $200 to $500 fine per day until compliance. May require removal of unpermitted construction. Occupancy before final inspection is prohibited.

The Bottom Line

Horace's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Horace is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Horace can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.