North Slope Borough clarifies permits, subsistence guidance for residents

The North Slope Borough Planning and Community Services Permitting and Zoning Division in Utqiagvik manages borough land use approvals and zoning questions, and handles a wide range of permits for activities on borough managed land. That centralization affects anyone planning construction, resource work, community events or access across municipal property, and it places early outreach and preparation at the center of successful projects.

Common approvals administered at the borough level include residential and commercial building permits for new construction, additions and many renovations within borough communities. Applications normally require site plans, contractor licensure and documentation showing compliance with local building and fire codes. Land use and development approvals cover gravel pads, pipelines, staging yards and other resource related works, and these reviews incorporate municipal code, coastal management and environmental mitigation requirements. Special event and temporary use permits govern community gatherings and short term use of municipal land or facilities. Right of way and access approvals are required for corridor work that crosses borough or municipal property.

Applicants should expect a multi step permitting process. Begin with a pre application contact to the Permitting and Zoning Division for a checklist and confirmation of required permits. Full submissions must include forms, site plans, proof of land control or permission, contractor information and any applicable fees. Internal review by borough planning staff coordinates technical, public safety and environmental assessments, and some projects are referred to state and federal agencies. Larger proposals may require public notice, tribal consultation and action by the Planning Commission or the Assembly. Approved permits commonly include conditions such as mitigation measures, reclamation requirements, surety bonds and ongoing monitoring.

Subsistence and cultural harvesting are central considerations. Federal and state laws including ANILCA and applicable state regulations protect many subsistence rights for Alaska Native residents, and borough departments work to ensure land use and industrial permits address subsistence impacts. Residents conducting subsistence activities should consult village tribal offices and borough subsistence or wildlife liaisons early. Industrial applicants are expected to include subsistence impact analyses and records of consultation as part of larger permitting packages.

For contact information start with the North Slope Borough website planning and community services pages for phone numbers and email for the Permitting and Zoning Division. State level permits that overlap with borough jurisdiction are managed by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation and the Bureau of Land Management. Coordination with tribal governments, village corporations and local councils is often required or strongly recommended. Given remote logistics and seasonal access constraints, start early, engage communities and prefer existing infrastructure to reduce permitting complexity and protect local resources.