The mission of the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission is to serve the public and to protect the correlative rights of mineral ownership. In addition, it issues permits to drill for natural gas and oil with the goal of protecting the environment as well.
Under Arkansas law, surface owners must allow a reasonable part of their land to be used for drilling and production for the common good of all of the state's residents. However, drilling companies must be respectful of the property owner's concerns, and all drilling detail must arrive by certified mail or personal delivery.
Most drilling companies will offer repair money to owners when property damage occurs, but Arkansas law does not require it. Sometimes owners make arrangements for compensation when they sign agreements for easements, but these are often the ones who have secured legal advice.
