Protected Classes: Fair Housing Laws in North Dakota

Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws North Dakota published: June 21, 2025 Flag of North Dakota

As a renter in North Dakota, it's important to know your rights under state and federal fair housing laws—especially if you ever feel you are being treated unfairly or denied housing. North Dakota law defines specific 'protected classes' to prevent discrimination by landlords, property managers, and real estate professionals. This guide explains what these protected classes are, how the law protects renters, and what steps you can take if you believe your rights are being violated.

What Are Protected Classes Under North Dakota Fair Housing Laws?

Protected classes are groups of people shielded from housing discrimination by law. Landlords, property owners, and agents cannot deny you housing, set different terms, or harass you based on:

  • Race
  • Color
  • National Origin
  • Religion
  • Sex (includes gender and gender identity)
  • Disability (physical or mental)
  • Familial Status (including children under 18 and pregnant women)
  • Age
  • Marital Status
  • Source of Income (including public assistance)

These protections apply to most types of housing in North Dakota under the North Dakota Human Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act [1][2].

How Does North Dakota Law Protect Renters?

Fair housing laws make it illegal for landlords or housing providers to:

  • Refuse to rent to you because you belong to a protected class
  • Set different rental terms, rules, or services for different people
  • Evict, harass, or retaliate against you based on a protected status
  • Advertise in a way that discourages certain groups from applying
  • Deny reasonable modifications or accommodations for disabilities
If you think your application was rejected or your lease ended due to discrimination, you have the right to file a fair housing complaint.

When Exceptions May Apply

There are a few exceptions—owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units, or housing operated by religious organizations, may not be subject to all laws. Still, most rental situations in North Dakota are covered by these protections.[1]

How to File a Fair Housing Complaint in North Dakota

If you believe you've been discriminated against, you can file a complaint with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights (the official state agency), or with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The North Dakota agency will investigate, offer mediation, and may take enforcement action if they find discrimination has occurred.

Official Complaint Forms

  • North Dakota Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
    • When to use: If you feel you were denied, evicted, or treated unfairly when renting or seeking housing due to a protected class.
    • How to submit: Complete the form online or download and mail to the Department of Labor and Human Rights. Instructions and access to the form are here: ND Housing Discrimination Complaint
  • HUD Form 903 (Housing Discrimination Complaint)
    • When to use: For both state and federal housing complaints. You can submit online, by mail, or in person if you prefer dealing with HUD directly.
    • Form and instructions: HUD Form 903
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Action Steps if You Suspect Housing Discrimination

  • Write down what happened, including dates, names, and what was said or done.
  • Gather any written communication, lease documents, or applications.
  • File a complaint using the official forms listed above, either online or by mail.
  • Consider contacting a renter advocacy service for guidance or legal support.
You must file your complaint within 300 days of the incident with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights, or within one year if filing with HUD.

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Disputes?

In North Dakota, housing discrimination complaints are overseen by the Department of Labor and Human Rights. For general tenant-landlord disputes, local Small Claims Courts or District Courts may also be involved.

Relevant North Dakota Tenancy Law

The core legislation supporting these rights is the North Dakota Human Rights Act (NDCC 14-02.4). For general rental rules (leases, deposits, eviction, etc.), see the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 [3][4].

FAQ: North Dakota Renter Discrimination Questions

  1. What should I do if a landlord refuses to rent to my family because we have children?
    Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you solely because you have children under 18—this is protected under 'familial status.' File a complaint if this happens.
  2. Does North Dakota protect renters' source of income (like Section 8 or public assistance)?
    Yes, 'source of income' is a protected class. A landlord generally cannot deny you based on receiving housing vouchers or lawful public assistance.
  3. Can a landlord evict me for requesting disability accommodations?
    No. The law requires landlords to offer reasonable accommodations and prohibits them from retaliating against renters who ask for these changes.
  4. How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in North Dakota?
    You must file with the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights within 300 days of the discriminatory act. With HUD, you have up to one year.
  5. Are there any exceptions to fair housing laws in North Dakota?
    Yes. Some exceptions apply for small owner-occupied buildings and religious organizations. But most rental housing must follow fair housing rules.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

  • North Dakota law prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, family status, age, marital status, and source of income.
  • If you believe you've experienced discrimination, act promptly—document everything, and file a complaint through official state or federal channels.
  • The Department of Labor and Human Rights is the main authority for fair housing complaints in North Dakota.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. North Dakota Department of Labor & Human Rights – Housing Discrimination
  2. U.S. Fair Housing Act Overview (HUD)
  3. North Dakota Human Rights Act (NDCC 14-02.4)
  4. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 – Landlords and Tenants

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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