Colorado oil and gas commission votes for 500-foot drilling setback
COGCC adopts new drilling setback rules
The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission voted 8-1 Monday to require new oil and gas wells to be drilled at least 500 feet from homes and buildings. Commissioner Tommy Holton, mayor of Fort Lupton, cast the sole vote against the measure, citing the lack of scientific data over possible health impacts from nearby drilling. “We need to base this on fact and not change the rules just because we can,” he said.
The new setback replaces a 350-foot rule, and goes into effect Aug. 1.
Companies will be expected to mitigate traffic, noise, fume and other impacts for drilling within 1,000 feet of buildings. A commission hearing would be required for drilling activity within 1,000 feet from schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other public buildings.
No statements yet from members of the Environmental Coalition, attorney Matt Sura or Mike Chiropolos from Western Resource Advocates.
I’m not sure which version the Commissioners voted on today, but this is the most recent draft version: SETBACKS: STAKEHOLDER DRAFT REVISION 1 — December 31, 2012
February 11, 2013
Colorado, oil and gas drilling