No, squatted trucks—vehicles modified to ride lower than factory specifications—are illegal in North Dakota under state traffic laws. The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) enforces vehicle equipment standards, and squatted trucks violate N.D.C.C. § 39-21-36, which mandates proper suspension height and clearance. Local law enforcement, including the Bismarck Police Department, actively cites violations, and 2026 legislative proposals seek stricter penalties for non-compliance.
Key Regulations for Squatted Trucks in North Dakota
- Height Restrictions: NDDOT prohibits vehicles from riding lower than 13 inches from the ground at any point under the front axle (N.D.C.C. § 39-21-36). Violations result in fines up to $1,000.
- Suspension Modifications: Aftermarket lowering kits must not alter the vehicle’s original ride height by more than 2 inches. The NDDOT’s 2025 inspection guidelines explicitly flag squatted trucks during annual safety checks.
- Local Enforcement: Municipalities like Fargo and Grand Forks have adopted supplementary ordinances, empowering police to impound vehicles with illegal modifications immediately. Courts may require compliance certification before release.