Texas Geothermal Drilling & Well Development(5-TX)

Developers must obtain a Drilling Permit from the RRC for exploratory wells, commercial drilling operations, geothermal wells, and co-production wells. A geothermal well is a well drilled within the established limits of a designated geothermal field. 16 TAC 3.79. If the proposed well is located in a Texas Groundwater Conservation District, then special procedures or restrictions may apply. Developers should consult with the applicable district to determine extra procedures that may be required. The RRC uses an Online Drilling Permits System that allows developers to complete the Application for Permit to Drill, Recomplete or Re-Enter form online. Developers may be required to obtain special permission for wells which will not comply with Texas spacing and well density rules in 16 TAC 3.

According to TNRC 141.004 the geothermal energy and resources below the surface of the land are owned by the surface estate owner, unless otherwise expressly provided by a conveyance, contract, reservation, limitation, lease, or other binding obligation. This provision does not apply to minerals dissolved or otherwise contained in groundwater, including hot brines. TNRC 141.004.

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Determine Which State and Federal Permits Apply

Use this overview flowchart and following steps to learn which federal and state permits apply to your projects.