Indiana § 14-37-8-1 - When plugging and abandonment required; violations
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 14-37-8-1 — When plugging and abandonment required; violations, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-37-8-1. When plugging and abandonment required; violations
Sec. 1. (a) An owner or operator shall plug and abandon a well that:
(1) is completed as a nonproductive well;
(2) ceases to produce oil or natural gas; or
(3) is no longer operated for the purpose for which the well is permitted;
unless the owner or operator is authorized to delay the plugging and abandonment of the well under section 8 of this chapter.
(b) The department may assess a civil penalty of not more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) against an owner or operator of a well who:
(1) ceases to operate the well; and
(2) knowingly fails to plug and abandon the well in violation of subsection (a).
(c) An owner or operator who knowingly or intentionally violates this section commits a Level 6 felony if the violation or failure to comply relates to the operation of a Class II well.
(d) A civil penalty assessed under this section shall be deposited in the oil and gas environmental fund established by IC 14-37-10-2.
(e) Each day that the well remains not plugged and not abandoned constitutes a separate violation of subsection (a).
[Pre-1995 Recodification Citation: 13-8-10-1.]
As added by P.L.1-1995, SEC.30. Amended by P.L.195-2014, SEC.40.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 14-37-8-1
What does Indiana Code § 14-37-8-1 cover?
Section 14-37-8-1 ("When plugging and abandonment required; violations") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 14-37-8-1?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 14-37-8-1" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 14-37-8-1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.