15A NCAC 05H .1206      WELL SPACING REQUIREMENTS FOR RESOURCES IN CONVENTIONAL RESERVOIRS

(a)  The drilling of a new oil or gas well in a conventional reservoir, the reopening of an oil or gas well temporarily abandoned pursuant to Rule .1621 of this Subchapter, the deepening, plugging back, or sidetracking of an existing oil or gas well shall conform to the requirements in this Section.

(b)  In conventional reservoirs, no portion of the wellbore shall be less than 200 horizontal feet from the boundary of the drilling unit.

(c)  A variance may be granted by the Commission to reduce the distance from the boundary of the drilling unit based on reservoir performance to optimize production and minimize waste of the reservoir.  The variance, if granted, shall provide equal or greater protection of public health, safety, and the environment.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 113-391(a)(12);143B-293.1(b);

Eff. March 17, 2015.