This bill introduces new provisions in the North Dakota Century Code regarding nonconforming structures in residential zoning districts. It allows for the repair, replacement, improvement, maintenance, restoration, or rebuilding of nonconforming residential structures that have been damaged beyond fifty percent of their value, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include submitting a building permit application within six months of the damage, beginning restoration within one year, and ensuring that the new structure does not exceed the original in size, height, or number of stories, among other stipulations. The bill also emphasizes that any expansion of nonconforming structures must comply with existing zoning ordinances and that movement of such structures is only permissible if it brings them into compliance.

Additionally, the bill mandates that zoning authorities regulate nonconforming structures in floodplain areas to maintain eligibility in the national flood insurance program and adhere to floodplain management ordinances. It allows for the creation of less restrictive ordinances by zoning authorities and requires counties, cities, and townships to issue building permits for nonconforming structures that meet the outlined qualifications, unless they violate specific conditions. The definition of a "nonconforming structure" is also clarified, indicating that it refers to structures that were legal prior to changes in zoning ordinances.