Washington § 79.14.050 - Drilling operations beyond lease term — Lease provisions.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 79.14.050 — Drilling operations beyond lease term — Lease provisions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 79.14.050. Drilling operations beyond lease term — Lease provisions.

All leases shall provide that if oil, gas or other hydrocarbon substances are not encountered on or before the end of the initial term, the lease shall not terminate if the lessee is then prosecuting drilling operations on the leased lands with due diligence, in which event the same shall remain in force so long as lessee shall keep one string of tools in operation on the leased lands, allowing not to exceed ninety days between the completion of one well and the commencement of the next until such substances are encountered in quantities deemed paying quantities by lessee. All leases shall further provide that if oil, gas or other hydrocarbon substances in paying quantities shall have been discovered on the leased lands prior to the expiration of the initial term, then in the event at any time after the expiration of the initial term production on the leased land shall cease from any cause, the lease shall not terminate provided lessee resumes operations for the drilling of a well or the restoration of production within ninety days from such cessation. The lease shall remain in force during the prosecution of such operations, and if production results therefrom, then so long as production continues.
[ 1985 c 459 s 4; 1955 c 131 s 5. Prior: 1937 c 161 s 7; 1927 c 255 s 180. Formerly RCW 78.28.320.]

Notes

Severability—1985 c 459: See note following RCW 79.14.510.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 79.14.050

What does Revised Code of Washington § 79.14.050 cover?

Section 79.14.050 ("Drilling operations beyond lease term — Lease provisions.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. 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 Washington § 79.14.050?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 79.14.050" (Washington). 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 Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 79.14.050 apply to my situation?

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