Permitting
Wyoming
There is an array of regulations in place in Wyoming to oversee the production of every phase of coalbed natural gas, with many agencies - state and federal - involved. The WOGCC regulates the placement of wells and have their set of permits. Since water is produced and must be dealt with, it needs its own collection of permits from Wyoming's Department of Environmental Quality (WDEQ). If the CBNG is on federal land, the BLM issues permits for drilling. In addition, the Wyoming State Engineer's office (SEO), Army Corps of Engineers and more are involved in the process of producing coalbed natural gas.

Prior to initial drilling in Wyoming, the company needs to obtain these required permits:

• Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (WOGCC) application for permit to drill (APD)
• WOGCC pit construction permit
• If the lease is on federal lands, the company needs an APD from the BLM in addition to the APD from the WOGCC
• A water well permit from the State Engineer's Office (SEO)
• If reservoirs are being constructed, a permit is required from the SEO.
• The U.S. Corps of Engineers requires a permit whenever wetlands or waters of the United States are disturbed or filled.
• National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit from Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)
• WOGCC permit to vent any natural gas into the atmosphere
• An air quality permit from the WDEQ's Air Quality Division must also be obtained prior to construction of any facilities related to the installation of internal combustion engines including compressors and generators.

View report detailing the filings required to drill a coalbed natural gas well in Wyoming.
Wyoming Permits