1. (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.

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

   1. (1) Drilling fluid temperature (in and out),
   2. (2) Drilling fluid pit level,
   3. (3) Drilling fluid pump volume,
   4. (4) Drilling fluid weight, and
   5. (5) Drilling rate.
3. (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.

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:

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

History

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).