On January 28, 2020, the City Commission established a Housing Commission that will explore the housing industry problems and opportunities with the City of Williston and Williams County.  Nine members were selected by the mayor that include representation from the real estate, banking, oil & gas, construction industries and a few members from the public sector. The city commission approved three incentives brought before them by the housing commission.

New Home Building Permit Fees Waived
Residential building permit, plan review, plumbing, heating, and excavation fees are waived for new home permits.  Based on a typical three bedroom, two bath home, the average building permit fees can run in the amount of $2,120.  Building permits are still required for all projects, but the fee will be waived at the time of issuance.

Affordable Housing Incentive Program
The purpose of the Affordable Housing Incentive is to encourage new home building at the current FHA level ($356,362.00) with 25 percent of supplies and labor sourced locally.   A total grant amount of $5,000 will be awarded if the applicant meets all the program qualifications.

Affordable Housing Incentive Program Guidelines
Affordable Housing Incentive Program Application

New Home Property Tax Exemption
In compliance with North Dakota Century Code 57-02-08(35), the City of Williston allows a property tax exemption for the first $150,000 of true and full value of new single-family, condominium and townhouse residential property, exclusive of the land on which it is situated, for the first taxable year after the taxable year in which the permit was issued and the residence is owned and occupied for the first time, and other conditions are met.

On December 22, 2020, the City Commission passed Resolution #20-048.  This resolution allows the maximum exemption amount $150,000 of true and full valuation.   The value of improvements allowed by the resolution is exempt for a maximum of two years following the year in which construction was completed and the residence is owned and occupied for the first time.  All applications must be submitted to Williams County Tax and Equalization department.  If you have any questions regarding this exemption, please contact Williams County Tax and Equalization at (701) 577-4555.

New Home Property Tax Exemption Guidelines
New Home Property Tax Exemption Application