CO HB1176

Requires Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission to establish setbacks of at least 1,000 feet from residences or schools for wells subject to hydraulic fracturing, with exceptions allowing surface owners in non-urban areas to request shorter distances.

Defines "urban area" as an area with average residential density of at least one dwelling unit per 2.5 acres or at least 50,000 square feet of gross floor area devoted to non-residential structures.

Grants commission authority to require best management practices for new oil and gas technologies be established by rule prior to their use.

Expands the definition of "surface owner" to include owners of land overlying the portion of a geologic formation where horizontal hydraulic fracturing is conducted.

Applies to acts occurring on or after the bill's effective date and includes a safety clause declaring the act necessary for preservation of public peace, health, and safety.