In addition to making sure that only qualified individuals become licensed as Professional Engineers or Professional Land Surveyors, the Board of Registration is also responsible for enforcing licensing laws, relevant administrative rules and the Code of Ethics. Information about the statutes and administrative rules is located on the home page under the “Public” menu.
North Dakota laws allow any person to bring charges against a Professional Engineer or Professional Land Surveyor. The charges must be on the Board’s charge form, signed and notarized. You can download the form here.
The Board does not have civil jurisdiction. For example, the Board cannot direct a Professional Land Surveyor to move a boundary or direct a Professional Engineer to refund your fees. Those things fall under provisions of civil law statutes. You will need to consult an attorney to determine the appropriate legal remedy.
The Board can take disciplinary action against a licensed professional if it finds a violation over which the Board has jurisdiction. Those violations include fraud, deceit, gross negligence, incompetence, misconduct, or violation of the code of ethics. Keep in mind that a simple mistake or error does not rise to the level of gross negligence and is not subject to disciplinary action. If the board finds that disciplinary action is warranted, the board may reprimand, suspend, refuse to renew, or revoke the accused registrant’s certificate of registration.
