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1. How can I find out if a natural gas well permit has been obtained near my property or additional information about gas well drilling within our city limits?

If a gas drilling operator has requested a drilling permit within 1,000 feet from your residence, you will receive a notification concerning the request. Residents with any questions or concerns regarding gas drilling are encouraged to attend gas drilling public meetings.

2. What is the Barnett Shale?

The Barnett Shale is a large natural gas reserve that stretches underground across a 15 county area. It contains an estimated 26 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and is located approximately 1.5 miles below the surface.

In recent years, advances in drilling technology have made it possible for energy companies to extract large amounts of natural gas from the Barnett Shale.

3. What can I expect when a company is going to drill in my area?

A sign will be placed near the proposed well site advising that a permit application has been submitted. Notices will be sent to residents / property owners within 1,000 feet of the well site. Additionally, staff sends a separate notice to residents/property owners if a proposed well is to be located within 1,000 feet of any protected use.

A pad generally 300 feet by 300 feet will be prepared and a drilling rig will move onto the location. The drilling rig will be on site for approximately 20-30 days actually “drilling” the well and running pipe into the open hole. After the well is drilled the drilling rig will move off. The rig move and drilling is a 24 hour operation and is probably the noisiest part of the operation. Shortly thereafter, well “completion” will begin and a smaller portable rig will move onto the location.

After completion operations, surface equipment will be installed along with appropriate fencing and gates. From this point there will be minimal activity on the location. Occasionally a small rig will be brought to the location for remedial work.