How do I apply for a drilling permit?

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After obtaining an oil and gas lease, an operator must get a permit to drill a well. The AOGCC regulates oil, gas, helium, CO2, and geothermal drilling and production in Arizona, and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality provides administrative support to the AOGCC. The Oil and Gas Administrator reviews drilling applications for compliance with rules, issues permits to drill, and performs well-site inspections on behalf of the AOGCC. Basic requirements for drilling, completing, and producing oil and gas wells are explained in the oil, gas, and geothermal resources rules, which are part of the the Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) in Title 12 (Natural Resources), Chapter 7 (Oil and Gas Conservation Commission). The AOGCC has authority to approve requests for variance or exception to many of the general statewide rules after notice and hearing.

To begin the permitting process, it is strongly recommended that you contact the Oil and Gas Administrator about your interest in drilling. This initial informal discussion saves time putting together an application. Click here for a permit application checklist. Questions about the AOGCC, its rules or applications to drill may be directed to the Oil and Gas Administrator.