§ 14–108
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Envir. § 14-108 (2026)
Title 14. Gas and Oil
Subtitle 1. In General
§ 14–108LinkCopy Citation
The Department shall deny the permit if the Department determines that:
(1)
The proposed operation shall violate a requirement of this subtitle or a regulation adopted under this subtitle;
(2)
The proposed drilling or well operation poses a substantial threat to public safety or a risk of significant adverse environmental impact to, but not limited to, the following:
(i)
The Chesapeake Bay;
(ii)
The Chesapeake Bay Critical Area;
(iii)
Tidal or nontidal wetlands;
(iv)
Endangered or threatened species, species in need of conservation, or the habitat of any of them;
(v)
Historic properties under § 5A–326 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;
(vi)
Populated areas;
(vii)
Freshwater, estuarine, or marine fisheries; or
(viii)
Other significant natural resources;
(3)
The applicant has failed to receive applicable permits or approvals for the operation from all State and local regulatory units responsible for air and water pollution, sediment control, and zoning;
(4)
The operation will constitute a significant physical hazard to a neighboring dwelling unit, school, church, hospital, commercial or industrial building, public road, or other public or private property in existence at the time of the application for the permit;
(5)
The operation will have a significant adverse effect on the uses of a publicly owned park, forest, or recreation area in existence at the time of the application for the permit; or
(6)
The applicant has not corrected any violations committed by the applicant under any prior permit.