North Dakota § 23-09-09 - Sanitation and safety

Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 23-09-09 — Sanitation and safety, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 23-09-09. Sanitation and safety

Every food establishment, lodging establishment, and assisted living facility must be operated with strict regard for the health, safety, and comfort of its patrons. The following sanitary and safety regulations must be followed: 1. Every food establishment, lodging establishment, and assisted living facility must be well constructed, drained, and provided with plumbing equipment according to established sanitary principles and must be kept free from effluvia arising from any sewerage, drain, privy, or other source within the control of the proprietor. 2. In municipalities in which a system of public water supply and sewerage is maintained, every food establishment, lodging establishment, and assisted living facility must be equipped with suitable toilets for the accommodation of its guests, and such toilets must be ventilated and connected by proper means of flushing with the water of said system. All lavatories, bathtubs, sinks, drains, and toilets must be connected with such sewerage system and installed according to all applicable plumbing codes. 3. When a sewerage system is not available, open toilets must be located not less than forty feet [12.19 meters] from all kitchens, dining rooms, and pantry openings and must be properly cleaned, screened, and disinfected as often as may be necessary to keep them in a sanitary condition. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. All garbage and kitchen refuse must be kept in watertight containers with tight-fitting covers to prevent decomposition. No dishwater or other substance which is or may become foul or offensive may be thrown upon the ground near any food establishment, lodging establishment, or assisted living facility. All bedrooms must be kept free from insects and rodents, and the bedding in use must be clean and sufficient in quantity and quality. Each food establishment, lodging establishment, or assisted living facility shall keep in its main public washroom and available at all hours individual disposable paper towels, a continuous towel system that supplies the user with a clean towel, or a heated air hand drying device for the use of its guests. Bathrooms, toilet rooms, and laundry rooms must be provided with either natural or mechanical ventilation connected directly to the outside. All food establishments, lodging establishments, or assisted living facilities shall equip operable windows during the summer months with screens adequate to keep out insects. Neither the dining room nor kitchen of any food establishment, lodging establishment, or assisted living facility may be used as a sleeping or dressing room by any employee of the hotel or restaurant or by any other person.

Source: official North Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 23-09-09

What does North Dakota Century Code § 23-09-09 cover?

Section 23-09-09 ("Sanitation and safety") is part of the North Dakota Century Code, the codified statutory law of North Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite North Dakota § 23-09-09?

A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 23-09-09" (North Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of North Dakota law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Dakota attorney.

How does North Dakota § 23-09-09 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Dakota.