Why is gas drilling happening here now?
Geologists have long known that the Millstone Shale holds natural gas, but drilling there only became profitable once horizontal drilling made it practical. Natural gas prices also affect whether drilling makes economic sense.
How can I tell whether I own the mineral rights to my property?
Start by checking your deed or title, which should show whether you hold the mineral rights beneath your home. If you don't have those papers, you can look up the records at the county courthouse. The city plays no part in mineral leasing on private land.
Which state agency oversees the natural gas industry?
The Railroad Commission of Texas regulates natural gas production and pipeline safety. You can reach the commission at (555) 010-6244.
How is the environment being protected?
Before the city adopted its gas well ordinance, staff toured drilling sites, studied ordinances from other cities, met with industry representatives and hired a petroleum engineer to serve as an independent inspector. Under the ordinance, drilling must comply with the city's noise rules, drilling muds must be kept in closed tanks, operators must prepare emergency response plans, and every practical safety measure, such as well shut-in valves, must be in place. A watchman or crew stays on site whenever drilling is underway.
Who reviews gas well applications?
Applications are reviewed by the city's Gas Well Inspector and by staff in Legal, Public Works, Planning, Transportation, Engineering, Fire Administration and Health and Environment.
How is the ordinance enforced?
The Gas Well Inspector, an independent petroleum engineer, inspects each well three times while it is being drilled and once a year after that, checking both technical and safety requirements. City staff also make periodic inspections to confirm compliance.
How long does drilling take?
Timing depends on the rig and the geology. Drilling a well usually takes 20 to 45 days; fracturing the well and readying it for production then adds another 30 to 60 days. Once drilling begins, it continues around the clock.
What happens once a well is finished?
When the well is producing gas, the site is fenced. Company staff visit from time to time to remove water separated from the gas and to perform maintenance.
How long does a well produce?
Most wells produce gas for roughly 30 years. When production ends, the well must be capped.
Who earns money from wells on private property?
Direct profits go only to the mineral owner and the company leasing the minerals. The city, the county and local school districts receive added property tax revenue based on the value of the wells, as set by the county appraisal district.
Who do I contact with a question or complaint?
Call the operator at the number posted on the well site sign, or call the city's Health and Environment staff at (555) 010-1261.
More Information
The Railroad Commission of Texas keeps records on gas well operators. City staff contacts are listed on the gas drilling city contacts page.
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