Exploration, Drilling and Production
Regulatory and Permitting Information

Natural gas exploration involves different techniques to determine the presence of natural gas or oil deposits underground.

Drilling occurs once an oil or gas deposit has been located through the exploration phase. Advancements in drilling technology have increased the efficiency and success rate for drilling natural gas wells.  Factors in locating a drill site include the nature of the potential formation to be drilled, the characteristics of the subsurface geology, and the depth and size of the target deposit.

Production - The phase of oil and gas operations that involves bringing gas and/or natural gas liquids (NGLs) to the surface, including activities at the well site related to separation and storage.

Understanding the regulations and working early in the process with ODNR, Ohio EPA, PUCO and other state agencies will help minimize permitting delays for you and ensure drilling activities are done in a manner that protects the public and environment.

General

Ohio’s Regulations: A Guide for Operators Drilling in the Marcellus and Utica Shales (OEPA, ODNR)

Drilling for Natural Gas in the Marcellus and Utica Shales: Environmental Regulatory Basics (OEPA, ODNR)

Shale Oil and Gas Well Site Checklist - Ohio EPA developed this checklist as a tool for drilling companies to identify potential compliance/permitting issues associated with locating a drill pad.

Water

Best Management Practices for Pre-Drilling Water Sampling (ODNR)

Water Withdrawal Facilities Registration Form and Instructions (ODNR)

Water Withdrawal Fact Sheet (ODNR)

Ohio EPA Section 401 Certification for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit 39 for Commercial and Institutional Developments (OEPA)

Ohio groundwater source map (ODNR)

Rainwater and Land Development Manual (ODNR)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Nationwide Permit Information

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – District Boundary Map

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Letter to Industry from the Buffalo District Office

Air

Air general permit for production operations at shale gas well sites (OEPA)

Waste Management

Drill Cuttings from Oil and Gas Exploration in the Marcellus and Utica Shale Regions (OEPA)

Disclaimer: This list of resources has been developed to you better understand Ohio's regulatory requirements and the permits you may need from various agencies. This list, however, is only a starting point. It should not be your only source of information on the regulations or replace seeking assistance from experienced consultants and/or legal counsel to help you fully understand and achieve compliance with Ohio's laws and regulations.