October 05, 2013 6:00 am • THE SOUTHERN
Online registration is now being accepted for individuals and firms interested in applying for permits for high-volume horizontal hydraulic fracturing in the state, according to an Illinois Department of Natural Resources news release.
Registration is required under provisions of the state’s Hydraulic Fracturing Regulatory Act and those interested in applying for the permits must submit registration forms at least 30 days before submitting their first permit application.
Registering with the IDNR is a separate and additional requirement for eventual applicants.
While registration has begun, IDNR will not accept applications or issue permits until draft administrative rules, still being developed by IDNR, have been approved by the General Assembly’s Joint Committee on Administrative Rules.
However, the regulatory act required that the registration form be made available effective Sept. 15.
Registrants must provide information that includes the disclosure of all findings of federal or state violations in the development or operation of an oil or gas exploration or production site via hydraulic fracturing by the applicant or any parent, subsidiary, or affiliate thereof within the previous 5 years; and proof of insurance to cover injuries, damages, or loss related to pollution or diminution in the amount of at least $5,000,000.