Natural Gas Drilling Regulations in Ohio

Natural gas drilling operations are regulated in Ohio by the Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), through the Division of Mineral Resources Management (DMRM), issues permits for drilling, as well as inspecting drilling, restoration and plugging of natural gas wells in the state. The DMRM is responsible for enforcement of Ohio's oil and gas drilling regulations.

Drilling & Plugging Permits

Ohio Revised Code Section 1509.05 requires that all oil and gas drilling operators obtain drilling and plugging permits. Section 1509.07 requires that all drilling operators carry liability insurance and a surety bond (or adequate surety deposit).

Drilling Operations

The primary drilling operation regulations are set out in Ohio Administrative Code Sections 1501:9-9-03, et seq. Subsection (E) requires all rotary drilling tools that use "air or other gaseous material as a drilling medium" maintain an operable rotating air-head "to control normal hydrostatic pressure." Sections 1501:9-9-05(B) and (C) require that "all gas vented to the atmosphere must be flared" with adequate fencing.

Ohio Administrative Code Section 1501:9-9-04(C) requires that pits or tanks must be adjacent to operations equipped to contain all drilling muds and cuttings.

Public Information Access

The DNRM website provides an online oil and gas well locator service which can be used in the event of an oil or gas emergency. Information available includes the specific location of wells, contact and facility information, and locations of nearby schools, hospitals, roads and bodies of water that may be affected.

References

• Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Operations Management
• Ohio Revised Code: Chapter 1509