Oregon Administrative Rules
Chapter 632 - DEPARTMENT OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL INDUSTRIES
Division 20 - GEOTHERMAL REGULATIONS
Section 632-020-0105 - Directional Drilling

(1) The maximum point at which a well penetrates the producing formation must not vary from the vertical drawn from the center of the hole at the surface by more than 5 degrees. Deviation is permitted without special permission for short distances to straighten the hole, sidetrack junk, or to correct other mechanical difficulties.

(2) Except for the purposes of straightening the hole, sidetracking junk, or correcting mechanical difficulties as provided in this rule, an operator may not drill a well that deviates from vertical unless the operator first files an application and obtains a permit from the department. If drilling is in progress, the operator must notify the department immediately of the deviation of the hole and file a written request with the department for approval, as required. If the department does not approve, the permittee must set a cement plug at the point of deviation from vertical and complete the well as originally approved or plug the well.