Plumbing contractors in
Grand Forks, North Dakota.
A public directory of plumbing contractor businesses serving greater Grand Forks. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Plumbing jobs in Grand Forks
0 open jobs in Grand Forks.
The controlled job pilot is not open yet.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
ND requires plumbers to hold a state-issued license through the State Plumbing Board. Must pass written exam covering codes, safety, and trade knowledge. Journeyman license requires 4 years apprenticeship or equivalent experience. Master plumber license requires additional 4 years as journeyman plus business/law exam. Licenses renew every 2 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
City of Grand Forks requires permits for new installations, water heater replacements, and major repairs. Permit fees range $50-200 depending on scope. All work must be performed by licensed plumber.
Inspection Schedule
Required inspections: rough-in before covering work, final inspection before activation. City inspector must approve within 48 hours of completion notice.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation required for employees, bonding requirements vary by municipality but typically $10,000-25,000 for larger commercial projects.
Local market snapshot
Source: DoorBase, aggregated public ZIP-level data. Updated 8/17/2026.
How to Get Licensed
Complete apprenticeship
Complete 4-year plumbing apprenticeship program with 8,000 hours on-the-job training and 576 hours classroom instruction, or provide equivalent work experience documentation
Submit application
Complete journeyman plumber application with State Plumbing Board including proof of training, work history, and character references
Pass written exam
Schedule and pass written examination covering plumbing codes, safety regulations, and trade knowledge. Exam fee is $75
Pay licensing fee
Submit $75 licensing fee along with completed application and exam results to State Plumbing Board
Obtain insurance and bonding
Secure required general liability insurance minimum $300,000 and any local bonding requirements before beginning work
Register with local jurisdiction
Register with Grand Forks building department and obtain any additional local permits or registrations required for operating in the city
About This Market
Grand Forks plumbing market serves 57,000 residents with roughly 15-20 active contractors handling residential and commercial work. Demand stays steady year-round due to harsh winters causing frozen pipes, boiler issues, and emergency calls. Competition is moderate with established players holding most commercial contracts. Residential service calls and water heater replacements drive most revenue, with costs influenced by remote location increasing material transport fees. Projects range from basic residential service to large commercial installations at UND and medical facilities. Winter emergency premiums can add 25-50% to standard rates during peak cold snaps. Getting licensed in North Dakota requires commitment but barriers aren't excessive compared to other trades. State Plumbing Board runs a straightforward licensing process with clear requirements and reasonable fees. Local permit process in Grand Forks moves efficiently if paperwork is complete. Key success factors include building relationships with supply houses, maintaining emergency response capability during winter months, and understanding local frost line requirements at 5 feet depth. Smart contractors stock common repair parts and maintain heated service vehicles. Commercial work requires bonding but offers steady revenue streams.
- Median hourly wageBureau of Labor Statistics
- Number of licensed establishmentsU.S. Census Bureau
- Licensing requirementsND State Plumbing Board
- Permit requirementsCity of Grand Forks Building Department
- Population dataU.S. Census Bureau
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a plumber license cost in North Dakota?
Initial journeyman license fee is $75, master plumber license is $100. Exam fees are additional $50-75. License renewal every 2 years costs $50-75 depending on license type. Source: ND State Plumbing Board.
How much do plumbers make in Grand Forks?
Median hourly wage is $31.81 per hour or $66,165 annually according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Emergency service and specialized work can command premium rates.
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in Grand Forks?
Yes, Grand Forks requires permits for water heater replacement. Permit fee is typically $75-125. Work must be performed by licensed plumber and pass final inspection. Source: City of Grand Forks Building Department.
How many plumbing contractors operate in North Dakota?
Approximately 324 licensed plumbing establishments operate statewide according to Census data, with Grand Forks area supporting 15-20 active contractors serving the metro region.
What apprenticeship requirements exist for ND plumbers?
4-year apprenticeship program or equivalent documented experience required for journeyman license. Must include 8,000 hours on-the-job training plus 576 hours classroom instruction covering codes, safety, and trade practices. Source: ND State Plumbing Board.
Plumbing contractors in Grand Forks
No contractors listed yet.
Run your plumbing business on The Forge.
Apply to be listed on The Board for free. Manage leads, quotes, jobs, and follow-ups in one place, built for independent operators and growing crews.