Commencement of operations.

§ 226.16 Commencement of operations. (a) No operations shall be permitted upon any tract of land until a lease covering such tract shall have been approved by the Superintendent: Provided, That the Superintendent may grant authority to any party under such rules, consistent with the regulations in this part that he deems proper, to conduct geophysical and geological exploration work. (b) Lessee shall submit applications on forms to be furnished by the Superintendent and secure his approval before: (1) Well drilling, treating, or workover operations are started on the leased premises. (2) Removing casing from any well. (c) Lessee shall notify the Superintendent a reasonable time in advance of starting work, of intention to drill, redrill, deepen, plug, or abandon a well.