Williston extends homebuilding incentives: $3,000 permit‑fee waiver and tax‑exemption extension approved

The Williston Board of City Commissioners voted Dec. 23 to extend two incentives intended to support local homebuilding: a New Home Permit Fee Waiver and a property tax exemption for qualifying new residential construction.

Mark Schneider, director of Development Services, told the commission the Housing Commission recommended continuing the New Home Permit Fee Waiver through Dec. 31, 2025. Under the policy the applicant pays a $3,000 permit fee upfront and is reimbursed $3,000 if all requirements are met; the waiver typically covers permit fees for homes valued up to $500,000. Schneider said the waiver helps builders with upfront cash flow and that builders report the program is helping them move lots toward construction. The commission approved the waiver on a 4-0 vote; Commissioner Tate Cymbaluk recorded the lone Nay.

Schneider also presented a proposed extension of the discretionary property tax exemption allowed under the North Dakota Century Code for certain new single‑family, condominium and townhouse properties. The exemption can apply to up to $150,000 of true and full valuation of improvements for a minimum of two taxable years after construction is completed and occupancy conditions are met. The commission approved Resolution 24‑009 to extend the exemption by unanimous vote, 5-0.

The minutes state the average new home permit fee in 2024 was approximately $2,450 and average construction time from permit approval to certificate of occupancy was about 175 days; the new waiver retains a one‑year reimbursement time frame and requires applicants to pay any costs exceeding $3,000 prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.