N.D. Cent. Code § 49-20-04
Upon receipt of the written application provided for in section 49-20-03, the commission shall set a date not later than thirty days from the date of the receipt of the application for a hearing upon the matter, and at least ten days before the date of said hearing shall notify in writing each of the parties affected or likely to be affected by the construction or reconstruction of said line. At such hearing, the commission shall swear witnesses, take evidence, and make such an investigation as shall determine all of the facts in the case. If the party desiring to build the line files its written consent to abide by the rules and regulations of the commission or the order issued in relation to the matter, then and in that case said party may proceed to construct such line.
N.D.C.C. § 49-20-04