Cincinnati Adopts Deep-Well Injection Ban; Action is First by Ohio City on Fracking Fluid

摘要

By unanimous vote Aug. 1, the Cincinnati City Council adopted an ordinance (No. 314-2012) banning deep well injection of hydraulic fracturing fluids, making it the first Ohio city to prohibit underground storage of wastewater within municipal limits. Although the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has sole permitting and regulatory authority over oil and gas drilling, the Cincinnati City Council indicated it was acting in its role as protector of public health and safety.