Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14 § 1942.1

Current through Register 2024 Notice Reg. No. 52, December 27, 2024

Section 1942.1 - Unstable Areas

Drilling any wells, including water wells, is prohibited in areas containing fumaroles, geysers, hot springs, mud pots, etc. (unstable areas), unless the Division determines, after a thorough geological investigation, that drilling in an unstable area is feasible. In this case, a special permit may be issued. The following may be required for a well drilled in an unstable area:

(a) A Division engineer shall be present at the well at all times during the initial phases of drilling until the surface casing has been cemented and the BOPE has been pressure-tested satisfactorily. The Division engineer may observe all drilling operations at the well and if, in his or her opinion, conditions warrant, may order a second or third string of surface casing to be run.

(b) The operator, while drilling the surface casing hole, shall continuously monitor and record the following:

(1) Drilling fluid temperature (in and out),

(2) Drilling fluid pit level,

(3) Drilling fluid pump volume,

(4) Drilling fluid weight, and

(5) Drilling rate.

(c) A drilling fee in addition to the fee specified in Section 1932, up to the maximum of $1,000 per well, depending on the geologic conditions in the area.

Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 14, § 1942.1

1. Amendment filed 8-16-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 33).
2. Change without regulatory effect amending subsection (a) filed 9-3-96 pursuant to section 100, title 1, California Code of Regulations (Register 96, No. 36).
3. Change without regulatory effect amending first paragraph and subsection (a) filed 12-26-2006 pursuant to section 100, title 1, California Code of Regulations (Register 2006, No. 52).

Note: Authority cited: Section 3714, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 3724, 3739, 3740, and 3741, Public Resources Code.