No person shall engage in oil or gas operations pursuant to Chapter 259, RSMo, and implementing regulations without first obtaining or renewing an operator license from the department, even if the well or storage facility is shut in or idle. A non-commercial operator license allows an individual to drill or operate a gas well for the sole purpose of furnishing gas for private domestic consumption by the owner to heat their home or barns and not for resale or trade. 

The department's Missouri Geological Survey is responsible in part for activities associated with the exploration, production and subsurface storage of oil and gas in Missouri. Some of these responsibilities include reviewing, approving and maintaining applications to drill oil and/or gas production wells, and underground injection control wells (enhanced oil recovery, disposal and hydrocarbon storage wells). A complete review process to issue licenses and permits for oil and gas drilling ensures the environment and residents are protected while allowing responsible development of oil and gas resources. 

Length of Permit

One calendar year. This license expires on Jan. 1 of the year immediately following issuance of the license. If the operator receives the license June 16, 2023, the license will expire Jan. 1, 2024 and will need to be renewed.

Laws, Rules and Regulations

How to Apply

Applications

Fact Sheets

Fees

$50 application for Non-Commercial Operator License

Timeline/ Process

The department will review the application for operator license and within in 15 business days, determine if the application is complete. The department will request additional information if the application is not complete, which will delay the review process. 

Once the completed information is received, the department will have another 15 business days to complete the determination. If the department has not received the missing or incomplete application information or fee within 30 days after notification, the application will be considered null and void and the applicant must reapply by submitting a new application for an operator license along with the associated fee. 

Public Participation

Any person adversely affected by an order or denial of a permit, license or transfer issued by the department may appeal the order or denial to the State Oil and Gas Council within 30 calendar days of such order or denial. The appeal must be sent by registered or certified mail to the chairperson of the council. The council may decide to conduct a public hearing to decide the appeal. 

Requirements

Reporting

Changes and Transfers

If you recently purchased a home that includes a gas well used for heating purposes, you will be required to obtain an Oil and Gas Non-Commercial License. The previous owner's license does not transfer to the new homeowners.

Renewal

An operator license expires on Jan. 1 each year. The operator must submit the Oil and Gas Non-Commercial Operator's License Application MO 780-2598 on or before Jan. 1 to renew their license each year. A late fee will be assessed if the renewal is submitted after the expiration date. If the state geologist determines the licensee is in violation of any state regulations, the department may deny the operator license renewal.

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