ND HB1355

Applies to oil and gas leases executed after July 31, 2013, and defines what constitutes "engaged in drilling or reworking operations" or "commence drilling or reworking operations"

Well site preparation, staking, and surveying must occur before the primary term expires

Drill site must be substantially completed and ready for a drilling rig within 15 days of primary term expiration

For single well pads, a drilling rig capable of reaching total vertical depth must be on-site within 45 days of primary term expiration

For multi-well pads, a drilling rig capable of reaching total vertical depth must be on-site within 90 days of primary term expiration; time delays caused by force majeure events are added to these deadlines