Expedited Rulemaking for Explorers and Exploratory Borings

In 2024, the Minnesota Legislature authorized Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Environmental Quality Board, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and Department of Revenue to use of an expedited rulemaking process, if a participating agency is proposing rules. All rules proposed using this authority must be published in State Register by May 22, 2026. 

MDH’s expedited rulemaking authority may consider amending rules on groundwater and surface water protection, exploratory boring construction, drilling registration and licensure, and inspections as they pertain to the exploration and appraisal of gas resources.

MDH is using an authorized expedited rulemaking process to propose revisions to Minnesota Rules, chapter 4727. These proposed changes would address exploratory borings that encounter gas. 

How to comment for Exploratory Borings Expedited rulemaking

If you have comments on the proposed expedited rule revisions (published in the State Register 5/11/2026) please submit your suggestions through the link below.

• Rulemaking eComments Website: Form and Filing eComments

Proposed revision documents

• Notice of Intent to Adopt Expedited Rules without a Hearing, published in the Minnesota State Register, Volume 50, Number 45 (PDF) (Page 1209) on May 11, 2026 
• Notice of Intent to Adopt Expedited Rules without a Hearing (PDF)
• Proposed Rule Amendments for Minnesota Rules, Chapter 4727 (PDF)

Rulemaking contacts

Questions regarding the rulemaking process or the revised rules may be directed to:

Avery Guertin or Jon Olson
wellrules.mdh@state.mn.us
651-201-4600 or 800-393-9808