No, squatting in North Dakota is illegal under state trespass and property laws, with violators subject to eviction, fines, or criminal charges. Civil remedies like adverse possession require 20+ years of continuous, hostile, and open occupation, rarely met. Local sheriffs enforce evictions under N.D.C.C. § 20-05-07, while the 2026 North Dakota Legislative Assembly expanded penalties for unauthorized occupancy.
Key Regulations for Squatting in North Dakota
- Adverse Possession (N.D.C.C. § 47-06-03): Requires 20+ years of exclusive, continuous, and hostile occupation with visible claim to property, coupled with tax payments. Courts scrutinize claims rigorously; mere occupancy fails to meet statutory thresholds.
- Trespass Enforcement (N.D.C.C. § 12.1-22-03): Unauthorized entry onto vacant or occupied land constitutes criminal trespass, punishable by up to 30 days imprisonment and $1,500 fines. Property owners must file formal complaints with county sheriffs for enforcement.
- Eviction Procedures (N.D.C.C. § 32-03-01): Landlords or owners may pursue expedited eviction via district court under forcible entry and detainer statutes. Squatters lack legal tenancy rights, enabling swift removal without formal lease disputes.