The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) is overhauling its oil and gas waste management rules. Starting July 1, 2025, operators must comply with new requirements under 16 TAC Chapter 4, which replaces much of the guidance found in Rule 8 (16 TAC 3.8).
These updates significantly impact how oilfield waste is permitted, handled, and reported. Operators can no longer rely on prior “authorized by rule” exemptions for common pit types.
Key takeaways include:
- New Permitting Standards: All permits issued on or after July 1 will fall under the Chapter 4 framework. Applications already in process may also need to be reviewed for compliance.
- Pit Registration Requirements: Common pit types, such as reserve pits, that were previously allowed without a formal permit must now be registered with the RRC.
These rule changes are intended to encourage the closure of older or inactive pits and promote cleaner, more transparent site management.
If you need support evaluating your current permits or understanding how these changes affect your operations, contact EDGE for #furtherinsight.