---
kind: "section"
citation: "43 C.F.R. § 3261.13"
title: "43"
number: "3261.13"
heading: "What is a drilling program and how do I apply for drilling program approval?"
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/43/3261.13"
---

# §3261.13. What is a drilling program and how do I apply for drilling program approval?

- (a) A drilling program describes all the operational aspects of your proposal to drill, complete, and test a well.
- (b) **Send to BLM—**
  - (1) A detailed description of the equipment, materials, and procedures you will use;
  - (2) The proposed/anticipated depth of the well;
  - (3) If you plan to directionally drill your well, also send us:
    - (i) The proposed bottom hole location and distances from the nearest section or tract lines;
    - (ii) The kick-off point;
    - (iii) The direction of deviation;
    - (iv) The angle of build-up and maximum angle; and
    - (v) Plan and cross section maps indicating the surface and bottom hole locations;
  - (4) The casing and cementing program;
  - (5) The circulation media (mud, air, foam, etc.);
  - (6) A description of the logs that you will run;
  - (7) A description and diagram of the blowout prevention equipment you will use during each phase of drilling;
  - (8) The expected depth and thickness of fresh water zones;
  - (9) Anticipated lost circulation zones;
  - (10) Anticipated reservoir temperature and pressure;
  - (11) Anticipated temperature gradient in the area;
  - (12) A plat certified by a licensed surveyor showing the surveyed surface location and distances from the nearest section or tract lines;
  - (13) Procedures and durations of well testing; and
  - (14) Any other information we may require.

## Notes

### Authority

Authority: 30 U.S.C. 1001-1028; 43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.; and Pub. L. 109-58.

### Source

Source: 72 FR 24400, May 2, 2007, unless otherwise noted.