Section 240.1120  Plugging of Uncased Wells

a)         Any well in which production casing is not set and cemented shall be plugged in accordance with Section 240.1140 of this Part within 30 days after drilling has ceased unless an extension of time has been granted by the Department.  In determining whether to grant an extension and in determining the length of an extension, the Department will consider:

1)         the permittee's specific plans for further wellbore evaluation or utilization,

2)         the total depth of the well,

3)         the depth of surface casing,

4)         a description of the current condition of the hole including a description of the drilling fluids currently in the well.

b)         If the Department determines, based upon field observation, that the uncased well presents a risk of contamination to the environment, or a risk of fire or public safety hazard due to the leaking of well bore fluids or the escape of flammable or toxic gases, the permittee shall commence plugging the well within twenty four (24) hours after notification by the Department.

(Source:  Amended at 18 Ill. Reg. 8061, effective May 13, 1994)