N.D. Cent. Code § 40-47-01

For the purpose of promoting health, safety, morals, or the general welfare of the community, the governing body of any city may, subject to the provisions of chapter 54-21.3, regulate and restrict the height, number of stories, and the size of buildings and other structures, the percentage of lot that may be occupied, the size of yards, courts, and other open spaces, the density of population, and the location and use of buildings, structures, and land for trade, industry, residence, or other purposes. The regulations may provide that a board of adjustment may determine and vary the application of the regulations in harmony with the regulations' general purpose and intent and in accordance with general or specific rules contained in the regulations. The governing body of a city may establish institutional controls that address environmental concerns with the department of environmental quality as provided in section 23.1-10-16.