CFR > Title 30 - Mineral Resources > CHAPTER II—MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR > SUBCHAPTER B—OFFSHORE (parts 250 to 285) > PART 251—GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL (G&G) EXPLORATIONS OF THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF > 251.4—Types of G&G activities that require permits or Notices.

251.4—Types of G&G activities that require permits or Notices.

(a) Exploration. You must have an MMS-approved permit to conduct G&G exploration, including deep stratigraphic tests, for oil, gas, or sulphur resources. If you conduct both geological and geophysical exploration, you must have a separate permit for each.
(b) Scientific research. You may only conduct G&G scientific research related to oil, gas, and sulphur in the OCS after you obtain an MMS-approved permit or file a Notice.
(1) Permit. You must obtain a permit if the research activities you propose to conduct involve:
(i) Using solid or liquid explosives;
(ii) Drilling a deep stratigraphic test; or
(iii) Developing data and information for proprietary use or sale.
(2) Notice. Any other G&G scientific research that you conduct related to oil, gas, and sulphur in the OCS requires you to file a Notice with the Regional Director at least 30 days before you begin. If circumstances preclude a 30-day Notice, you must provide oral notification and followup in writing. You must also inform MMS in writing when you conclude your work.