This NTL supersedes NTL 97-04.

This Notice to Lessees and Operators (NTL) is being issued to remind lessees and operators that a change in ownership or operatorship, including a name change, affects many aspects of our lessee (operator)/lessor relationship.

Pursuant to 30 CFR 250.108, in all cases where operations are not conducted by an exclusive owner of record, a designation of operator must be submitted to the Regional Supervisor prior to commencement of operations. Until the new operator is formally designated, the Minerals Management Service (MMS) will not accept plan- or permit-related submittals (such as Development and Production Plans, Applications for Permit to Drill, Oil Spill Response Plans, or Applications for Right-of-Way Pipeline Grants) from the new operator. All such submitted documents will be returned. New operators may also need to comply with other related regulatory requirements, such as being qualified pursuant to 30 CFR 256.35.

Lessees are responsible for ensuring that the MMS is immediately informed, in writing, of any changes in ownership and operatorship of all pipelines. Lessees are also responsible for determining if changes to lease or pipeline ownership/operatorship affect whether a pipeline should have a right-of-way. Owners/operators are responsible for submitting applications for new or modified pipeline right-of-way grants when required pursuant to 30 CFR 250 Subpart J.

Additionally, where operations are not conducted by the sole record title owner and owner of the operating rights, all owners of a pipeline must designate an operator, pursuant to 30 CFR 250.108. Attached is an optional form for the owner's convenience, entitled "Designation of Pipeline Operator."

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 Statement: The collection of information referred to in this notice provides clarification, description, or interpretation of requirements contained in 30 CFR Part 250, Subparts A, B, D, J; 30 CFR part 254; and 30 CFR part 256. The Office of Management and Budget has approved the collection of information required by these regulations and assigned OMB control number 1010-0030, 1010-0049, 1010-0053, 1010-0050, 1010-0091, and 1010-0006, respectively; and 1010-0044 (form MMS-123, Application for Permit to Drill). This notice does not impose additional information collection requirements subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.

If you have any questions or need clarification regarding this NTL, please contact the Chief, Plans, Platforms, and Pipelines Section at (805) 389-7550.

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