Fossil Resource Collecting Laws

Paleontological resources, on land owned by the State of North Dakota and its political subdivisions, are protected and managed under Chapters 54-17.3 and 43-04 of the North Dakota Century and Administrative Codes, respectively. A permit is required to investigate, excavate, collect, or otherwise record paleontological resources on these lands. The rules also provide a mechanism for monitoring paleontological activities on State lands, thereby providing information for State resources management plans. For rules governing the collection of fossils on federally managed lands, please contact the appropriate governing entity (BLM, USFS, Army Corps, etc.)

Century Code

Administrative Rules

Form 1 Locality Database

Form 2 Collecting Permit