Seismic Exploration Regulation Act Summary

• Establishes the "Seismic Exploration Regulation Act" defining key terms including seismic exploration, operator, surface estate, and surface owner based on county clerk records.

• Requires operators to register with the Corporation Commission and obtain permits for each separate seismic exploration operation, with financial surety guarantees as determined by the Commission.

• Mandates operators attempt to notify surface owners at least 15 days before seismic exploration by U.S. mail to addresses on county records, and file an affidavit within 90 days confirming compliance and listing unlocatable owners.

• Requires operators to include in notices a damage offer to surface owners; surface owners may accept in writing within 15 days to resolve claims, or reject and pursue civil action for reasonable damages under the Small Claims Procedure Act or Oklahoma Pleading Code.

• Establishes that the prevailing party in any court proceeding shall recover costs including attorney fees and expert witness fees; prohibits seismic test blasting within 200 feet of habitable dwellings or water wells without written permission.

• Effective November 1, 2012.