North Dakota Eviction Notice Rules: 30-Day vs. 7-Day Explained

If you’re a renter in North Dakota facing eviction, it’s normal to feel concerned and have questions. Understanding the kind of eviction notice you’ve received—whether a 30-day or a 7-day notice—is key to knowing your rights and next steps. This guide breaks down the differences and provides actionable resources to help you through the process, following current North Dakota law.

Understanding North Dakota Eviction Notices

In North Dakota, landlords must provide official written notice before starting any eviction process. The notice type and timeframe depend on why your landlord wants to end your tenancy. State law requires strict adherence to these rules to ensure a fair process for both renters and landlords.

Main Types of Eviction Notices

• 30-Day Notice: Used for ending a month-to-month (or periodic) rental agreement without alleging tenant fault (a ‘no-cause’ notice).
• 7-Day Notice: Used for lease violations, such as not paying rent or breaking other important lease terms.

Both notices must follow the proper legal requirements under the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-32.

What is a 30-Day Eviction Notice?

A 30-day notice is issued when your landlord wishes to end a month-to-month rental agreement for any lawful reason except discrimination or retaliation. The landlord is not required to give a specific reason. You are entitled to remain in your rental unit for the duration of the 30 days covered by this notice.

• The notice must be in writing.
• It must give at least 30 days’ advance warning.
• The 30 days begin once you officially receive the notice.

If you do not move out by the end of the 30 days, your landlord may begin formal eviction proceedings through North Dakota courts.

Relevant Official Form: Notice to Terminate Tenancy

• Form Name: 30-Day Notice to Vacate
• Use Example for Renters: If your landlord is ending your month-to-month lease for no specific reason, you should be given this notice. Keep a copy and note the date you received it.
• Download from North Dakota Courts: Landlord/Tenant Resources

What is a 7-Day Eviction Notice?

This notice is for serious lease violations—mainly non-payment of rent or breaches that may impact health, safety, or property. The notice informs you what the violation is and gives you seven days either to correct the problem or vacate.

• The notice must state what you did wrong (e.g., unpaid rent, unauthorized pet).
• It must give you at least seven days to fix the issue or leave.
• If you pay overdue rent or correct the violation within seven days, your landlord should not proceed with an eviction case for that issue.

After seven days—with no resolution or move-out—your landlord may ask the court for your removal.

Relevant Official Form: Notice of Intention to Evict (7-Day Notice)

• Form Name: Notice of Intention to Evict
• Use Example for Renters: If you receive this form for unpaid rent, you have seven days to pay. If you clear the rent due in that period, your tenancy continues under the law.
• Find forms on the North Dakota Courts Landlord/Tenant Page

How Do North Dakota Eviction Notices Work?

Eviction notices are the required first step in any North Dakota eviction case. They do not mean immediate removal—a landlord must file a complaint in civil court if you remain after the notice period. The official venue is the North Dakota Unified Court System.

Summary of the Legal Process

• You receive an official notice (7 or 30 days, depending on the reason).
• You decide to fix the violation, move out, or speak with your landlord.
• If unresolved, your landlord files an eviction case (called an "unlawful detainer action") in district court.
• You have a right to receive court papers and to attend a hearing.

Your Rights and Protections as a North Dakota Renter

All renters are protected from unfair eviction, discrimination, and retaliation. Every notice must comply with North Dakota's eviction statutes. You cannot be evicted for requesting repairs or reporting unsafe conditions.

• Your landlord must use authorized notice forms and give you the full notice period
• You have the right to defend yourself in court
• Certain groups (seniors, low-income tenants) may qualify for free or reduced-cost legal help

What if I Need to Respond?

If you wish to contest the eviction or believe the notice is wrong, you can present your side in court. You may also contact the court clerk to request forms and filing instructions.

Action Steps for Renters

• Review the notice for accurate dates and reason
• Communicate in writing with your landlord if you think the notice is invalid or incorrect
• Seek legal advice if you have questions or feel your rights are not being respected

FAQ: North Dakota Eviction Notices and Your Rights

1. Can my landlord give me a 7-day notice for any reason?
   No. A 7-day notice in North Dakota is for specific violations such as non-payment of rent or breaking major lease terms. For no-cause terminations, a 30-day notice must be used.
2. What can I do if I receive a 30-day notice but have nowhere to go?
   While you must respect the 30-day notice, you can talk to your landlord about extra time or seek local assistance. If you stay past the notice, your landlord must file an eviction action for court review.
3. How do I respond to an eviction notice?
   You can fix the violation (if possible), communicate with your landlord, or prepare your defense for court. Collect evidence and respond quickly.
4. Where do I get the official eviction notice forms?
   Official forms, including the 30-Day Notice to Vacate and the Notice of Intention to Evict, are available through the North Dakota Courts Landlord/Tenant forms page.
5. Who handles eviction disputes in North Dakota?
   The North Dakota Unified Court System oversees all formal eviction cases ("unlawful detainer").

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• The difference between 30-day and 7-day notices is based on the reason for removal—know which applies to you.
• All eviction notices must comply with North Dakota law; official forms should be used.
• Seek help, understand your rights, and respond in writing or through the courts if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Courts: Landlord/Tenant Legal Self Help Center – Forms, instructions, and legal information for renters.
• Legal Services of North Dakota – Free and low-cost legal assistance for qualifying tenants.
• Community Action Partnership of North Dakota – Housing support and advocacy services.
• North Dakota Department of Human Services Housing Programs – Rental assistance and emergency housing help.

---

1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-32: Forcible Detainer and Unlawful Detainer
2. North Dakota Courts Landlord/Tenant Resources

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations