- (1) The maximum point at which a well penetrates the producing formation must not vary from the vertical drawn from the center of the hole at the surface by more than 5 degrees. Deviation is permitted without special permission for short distances to straighten the hole, sidetrack junk, or to correct other mechanical difficulties.
- (2) Except for the purposes of straightening the hole, sidetracking junk, or correcting mechanical difficulties as provided in this rule, an operator may not drill a well that deviates from vertical unless the operator first files an application and obtains a permit from the department. If drilling is in progress, the operator must notify the department immediately of the deviation of the hole and file a written request with the department for approval, as required. If the department does not approve, the permittee must set a cement plug at the point of deviation from vertical and complete the well as originally approved or plug the well.
Statutory/Other Authority
ORS 522
Statutes/Other Implemented
ORS 522.305
History
DGMI 3-2013, f. & cert. ef. 3-21-13
DGMI 1-2010, f. & cert. ef. 6-22-10
GMI 2-1995, f. & cert. ef. 3-10-95
GMI 4-1980, f. & ef. 10-2-80
GMI 4, f. 7-20-72, ef. 8-1-72