3480 Department of Conservation
Program Descriptions

20 - OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

This program regulates the drilling, operation, and abandonment of oil, natural gas, and geothermal wells to protect the environment, prevent pollution, and ensure public safety. The state is fully reimbursed for program expenditures by annual assessments and fees on the respective industries. Approximately 500 companies operate over 88,000 wells in California for the production of oil, natural gas, and geothermal resources.