Section 580. Variance request to convert a vertical ventilation hole to a coalbed methane gas well

A. An applicant may request a variance to the casing standards in 4VAC25-150-610 when the applicant desires to convert a vertical ventilation hole drilled prior to September 25, 1991, to a coalbed methane gas well. All other standards for coalbed methane gas wells shall be met. The variance request must be included in the request for a permit, and shall address the following subjects:

1. Method of wellbore completion, whether cased, open or cased/open hole;

2. Coal seams to be left uncased;

3. Mining activity currently being conducted within 750 feet of the location;

4. Depth of the water-protection string and information on how the casing was cemented; and

5. In the case of a coalbed methane gas well drilled through a coal seam from which the coal has been removed, the protection provided to prevent the escape of any gases into the mined out seam.

The production casing shall be tested to 300 psig surface pressure or the highest pressure anticipated to be placed on the casing, whichever is greater. If after 30 minutes, the pressure has dropped by 10% or more of the test pressure, corrective action shall be taken to ensure that the casing is so set and cemented that it will hold at least 90% of the test pressure for 30 minutes or more.

B. No variance to the casing standards in 4VAC25-150-610 shall be allowed for the conversion of any vertical ventilation hole drilled on or after September 25, 1991, to a coalbed methane gas well.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR480-05-22.1 § 3.4, eff. September 25, 1991; amended, Volume 15, Issue 02, eff. November 11, 1998.

Statutory Authority

§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-361.27 of the Code of Virginia.