Reversing, Cmwlth Ct. says compressor station is permitted use where gas comes from wellhead

摘要

Reversing, Commonwealth Court held on May 9 tthat New Century Pipleine's compressor station, located where natural gas emerges from the wellhead, is a use permitted in the Forest/Slope Residence District pursuant to the Bradford Township Zoning Ordinance.The panel said, "(W)e hold that operation of the compressor station is 'gas production, 'as that term is used in Section 200.1.A.(8), and, as such, a permitted use. Any other interpretation makes 'gas production, including equipment necessary to drilling or pumping operations' impermissible, which contradicts the Zoning Ordinance's express authorization of gas production in the Forest District."