North Dakota’s sovereign lands are those areas, including beds and islands, lying within the ordinary high watermarks of navigable lakes and streams. DWR is responsible for administering the state’s non-mineral interests in North Dakota’s sovereign lands.
- Bois De Sioux River
- Cannonball River
- Devils Lake
- Heart River
- James River
- Knife River
- Lake Metigoshe
- Long Lake (Bottineau County)
- Missouri River
- Mouse River
- Painted Woods Lake
- Pembina River
- Red River
- Sheyenne River
- Sweetwater Lake
- Upper Des Lacs Lake
- Yellowstone River
DWR manages, operates, and supervises North Dakota’s sovereign lands for multiple uses, that are consistent with the Public Trust Doctrine and are in the best interest of present and future generations.
DWR does not employ law enforcement staff. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department and local law enforcement assist with sovereign lands-related law enforcement.
Sovereign Lands Permits
The DWR is responsible for regulating activities within the ordinary high water mark of sovereign lands, as authorized by N.D.C.C. ch. 61-33 and N.D.A.C. ch. 89-10-01.
A sovereign lands permit is required from the DWR for projects occurring either partially or wholly on sovereign lands except as otherwise provided in N.D.A.C. ch. 89-10-01.
A temporary sovereign lands permit may be requested for projects that last less than twelve months in duration and do not include permanent ground disturbing activities.
Authorization To Construct A Project Within Sovereign Lands Of North Dakota (SFN 61408) (PDF)
Guide To Navigating North Dakota Navigable Waters (PDF)
Boat Dock Registration
Boat docks that do not require a permit and that are located on the Missouri River between the Oliver and Morton County line and Lake Oahe wildlife management area must be registered with the DWR.
Information
For more information, contact the Regulatory Division at (701) 328-4965 or e-mail.