Gathering information To find out more about the geology of a sedimentary basin, a detailed search of the available information must be carried out on the target sector. Exploration reports and a list of the wells drilled, among other things, can be obtained from the Système d'information géoscientifique pétrolier et gazier (SIGPEG).

Using this system, it is possible

• to have access compilation maps, geo-referenced data and seismic profiles available in Québec;
• to place an on-line order;
• to make an on-line payment for products distributed by the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune.

Applying for an exploration licence for petroleum and natural gas

Before beginning any exploration work, you must obtain an exploration licence for petroleum and natural gas (PDF Format, 67,7 Kb) (Word Format, 55,5 Kb) from the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune. However, in an offshore location, the licence is granted following a call for bids. The licence gives the holder an exclusive right to explore for and, at a later date, extract fossil fuel resources. However, the licence holder must comply with certain conditions.

Moving into the exploration phase

Once you have obtained an exploration licence for petroleum and natural gas, you are required to carry out the necessary geological, geophysical or drilling work. Before starting the work, however, you must hold the following licences issued by the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune.

• Application for a geophysical survey licence (PDF Format, 60 Kb) (Available in French only);
• Application for a well drilling or re-entry licence (PDF Format, 64 Kb) (Available in French only);
• Application for a well completion licence (PDF Format, 61 Kb) (Available in French only);
• Application for a well modification licence (PDF Format, 61 Kb) (Available in French only);
• Application for an authorization of well closure (PDF Format, 62 Kb) (Available in French only).

Obtaining any other authorization required

To carry out exploration work in Québec, you must also inquire about any other necessary authorization from the authorities concerned.

In particular, you must obtain

• permission from the Commission de la protection du territoire agricole, if the work is to be carried out on agricultural land;
• a certificate of authorization from the Ministère du Développement durable, de l’Environnement et des Parcs, if the work is to be carried out on wetlands.

Obtaining a production lease

If you discover a fossil fuel deposit that you wish to bring into production, you must obtain a production lease for petroleum and natural gas from the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune. The lease is issued for a 20-year period and may be renewed if the resources are sufficient. The lease holder must comply with certain obligations.