KRS 353.140: Gas escape pipe, when to be used.

When a well has been filled and securely plugged to a point forty (40) feet below the

lowest workable coal bed, and in the judgment of the well operator, the coal operator and

the department a permanent outlet to the surface is required, the outlet shall b e provided

in the following manner: A plug of cement or other suitable material shall be placed in

the well at a suitable point, not less than ten (10) feet below the lowest workable coal bed.

In this plug and passing through the center of it shall be secu rely fastened an open pipe,

not less than two (2) inches in diameter, which shall extend to the surface. At or above

the surface the pipe shall be provided with a device that will permit the free passage of

gas and prevent obstruction. After the plug and p ipe are set, the hole shall be filled with

cement to a point ten (10) feet above the lowest workable coal bed. If there are additional

overlying workable coal beds, they shall be treated similarly, if in the judgment of the

well operator, the coal operator and the department such treatment is necessary. If the

parties cannot agree, the decision of the department shall control.