30 CFR 1204.3: What alternatives are available for marginal properties?

If you have production from a marginal property, ONRR and the State may allow you the following options:

(a) Prepay royalty. ONRR and the State may allow you to make a lump-sum advance payment of royalties instead of monthly royalty payments for the remainder of the lease term. See subpart B for prepayment of royalty requirements.

(b) Take accounting and auditing relief. ONRR and the State may allow various accounting and auditing relief options to encourage you to continue to produce and develop your marginal property. See subpart C for accounting and auditing relief requirements.