Well license statuses indicate the current operational state, from active production through abandonment and reclamation.
A well currently producing oil, gas, or other fluids. Active wells have ongoing operations and generate production data reported to regulators. Across Canada, approximately 15-20% of licensed wells are classified as active at any given time.
Try it on the mapA well permanently decommissioned and sealed. The wellbore is plugged with cement barriers to prevent fluid migration between formations or to surface. Abandoned wells remain on regulatory records but require no ongoing maintenance. The surface may or may not be reclaimed.
Try it on the mapA well temporarily taken out of service but capable of returning to production. Suspended wells maintain their downhole equipment and surface facilities. Companies suspend wells when economics are unfavorable or during operational planning. Suspensions can last years.
Try it on the mapA well currently being drilled. This status applies from spud (when drilling begins) until the well reaches total depth and drilling operations conclude. Drilling typically takes 2-6 weeks for conventional wells, longer for complex horizontal or deep wells.
Try it on the mapA well that has finished drilling and completion operations but may not yet be producing. Completion involves installing production casing, perforating the pay zone, and potentially fracturing the formation. The well is ready to produce but hasn't started.
Try it on the mapA well license that was approved but never drilled. The licensee voluntarily surrenders the permit, often due to changed economics, land issues, or revised drilling plans. Cancelled licenses leave no physical well.
Try it on the mapA well that has been sealed with cement plugs but may not have completed full abandonment procedures. Plugged wells have their wellbore secured but may still require surface reclamation or additional regulatory steps.
Try it on the mapA well that has steel casing cemented in place but no production equipment installed. Cased wells are typically waiting for completion operations or have been temporarily secured during drilling pauses.
Try it on the mapA well that has been re-evaluated and approved to continue operations after a period of suspension or inactivity. Recertification confirms the well meets current safety and environmental standards.
Try it on the mapA well site exempted from full reclamation requirements, typically because the environmental impact is minimal or the land use is compatible with the remaining infrastructure. Exemptions are granted on a case-by-case basis.
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