A. General operating requirements applicable to Class I non-hazardous waste injection wells and Class III wells.

1. (1) The maximum injection pressure at the wellhead shall not initiate new fractures or propagate existing fractures in the confining zone, or cause the movement of injection or formation fluids into ground water having 10,000 mg/l or less TDS except for fluid movement approved pursuant to Section 20.6.2.5103 NMAC.
2. (2) Injection between the outermost casing and the well bore is prohibited in a zone other than the authorized injection zone.

B. Additional operating requirements for Class I non-hazardous waste injection wells.

1. (1) Except during well stimulation, the maximum injection pressure shall not initiate new fractures or propagate existing fractures in the injection zone.
2. (2) Unless an alternative to a packer has been approved under Subparagraph (c) of Paragraph (3) of Subsection B of Section 20.6.2.5205 NMAC, the annulus between the tubing and the long string of casing shall be filled with a fluid approved by the secretary and a pressure, also approved by the secretary shall be maintained on the annulus.

C. Additional operating requirements for Class III wells: Initiation of new fractures or propagation of existing fractures in the injection zone will not be approved by the secretary as part of a discharge permit unless it is done during well stimulation and the discharger demonstrates:

1. (1) that such fracturing will not cause movement of fluids out of the injection zone into ground water having 10,000 mg/l or less TDS except for fluid movement approved pursuant to Section 20.6.2.5103 NMAC; and

2. (2) that the provisions of Subsection D of Section 20.6.2.3109 and Subsection C of Section 20.6.2.5101 NMAC for protection of ground water are met.

   [9-20-82, 12-1-95; 20.6.2.5206 NMAC - Rn, 20 NMAC 6.2.V.5206, 1-15-01; A, 12-1-01; A, 12-21-18]