Authority: IC 14-10-2-4; IC 14-37-3

Affected: IC 14-37

Sec. 14. (a) If drilling or logging tools, production equipment, damaged casing, or other obstructive material are encountered and removal of the obstruction is impracticable, the division director or an authorized representative may approve alternative plugging requirements.

(b) In determining whether to approve alternative plugging requirements, the division of reclamation shall consider the following:

1. (1) The time and cost of removing lost tools or equipment.
2. (2) The depth of the lost tools or equipment in relation to the depth of underground sources of drinking water.
3. (3) The condition of the well, including well construction and whether caving or other conditions may pose a substantial risk to further loss of tools or equipment.
4. (4) The potential for upward migration of well bore fluids into an underground source of drinking water.

(Natural Resources Commission; 312 IAC 29-33-14; filed Dec 1, 2017, 10:35 a.m.: 20171227-IR-312160230FRA; readopted filed Jan 17, 2023, 1:53 p.m.: 20230215-IR-312220328RFA; errata filed Mar 18, 2026, 9:59 a.m.: 20260325-IR-312260094ACA)