How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in North Dakota?

One month's rent, or up to two months' rent for a tenant with a felony conviction or a prior rental judgment; pet deposit up to the greater of $2,500 or two months' rent (N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1).

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in North Dakota?

30 days after the lease ends and the tenant gives up possession (N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1).

North Dakota security deposit law

The state rules a landlord in North Dakota has to follow for a residential security deposit, from N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1.

Maximum deposit: One month's rent, or up to two months' rent for a tenant with a felony conviction or a prior rental judgment; pet deposit up to the greater of $2,500 or two months' rent.
Deadline to return it: 30 days after the lease ends and the tenant gives up possession.
Itemized deductions: Written itemization of each deduction, with any amount owed, mailed or delivered to the tenant's last known address.
Interest on the deposit: Yes: deposit must be held in a federally insured interest-bearing account and the interest goes to the tenant, except when occupancy was under nine months.
Penalty for wrongful withholding: Treble damages for deposit money withheld without reasonable justification.

Before you keep any part of a deposit

Compare the unit with the move-in inspection and photos. Normal wear and tear is generally not chargeable.
Keep receipts or written estimates for every deduction.
Send the return or the itemized list within the deadline above, to the tenant's forwarding address, and keep proof of mailing.

Working out the last month's rent? The prorated rent calculator does the partial-month math.

Source

Verification status: verified summary. Research date: November 5, 2026. Statute: N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1. Source: ndlegis.gov.

General information, not legal advice. Cities and counties can add stricter rules, and laws change. Check the current statute or a local attorney before you act.

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Last updated November 5, 2026.