N.D. Cent. Code § 38-12-03
38-12-03. Permit required
38-12-03. Permit required
It is unlawful to commence operations for the exploration, development, or production of
subsurface minerals without first obtaining a permit from the director of mineral resources, under
such rules and regulations as may be prescribed by the commission and paying to the
commission a fee for each such permit in an amount to be prescribed by the commission.