Natural Resources Code § 52.023

Sec. 52.023. LEASE PROVISIONS FOR DRILLING AND REWORKING. Each lease shall provide that: (1) if the production of oil or gas on premises leased under this subchapter ceases for any reason after the expiration of the primary term, the lease will not terminate if the lessee commences additional drilling or reworking operations within 60 days after the cessation of production; (2) the lease shall remain in effect as long as drilling or reworking operations continue in good faith and in a workmanlike manner without interruptions totaling more than 60 days; (3) if the drilling or reworking operations result in the production of oil or gas, the lease shall remain in effect so long as oil or gas is produced from the leased premises in paying quantities or payment of shut-in royalties or payment of compensatory royalties is made as provided by law; and (4) if the drilling or reworking operations result in the completion of a well as a dry hole, the lease will not terminate if the lessee commences additional drilling or reworking operations within 60 days after the completion of the well as a dry hole, and the lease shall remain in effect so long as the lessee continues drilling or reworking operations in good faith and in a workmanlike manner without interruptions totaling more than 60 days. Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2446, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977. Amended by Acts 1979, 66th Leg., p. 2005, ch. 785, Sec. 6, eff. June 13, 1979; Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 897, Sec. 21, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.