Communities Grapple for Land Control Amid Gas Drilling

In one Pennsylvania township and elsewhere, gas drilling companies are getting zoning concessions to drill on private property. The industry is standing its ground as communities voice their opposition.

1 minute read

December 15, 2011, 5:00 AM PST

By Judy Chang

"Dozens of towns, cities and counties across the country have enacted rules on drilling noise, lighting and the distance from homes and, in some cases, outright bans. In New York State alone, there have been at least 70 such actions.

Companies say the rush to regulate has produced an overly burdensome set of demands that is denting their potential when the economy desperately needs a lift.

'It's like having to get a different driver's license in every town,' said Matt Pitzarella, a spokesman for Range Resources, a Texas drilling company that is active here."

FULL STORY: As Gas Drilling Spreads, Towns Stand Ground Over Control

Wednesday, December 14, 2011 in The New York Times

Energy Government / Politics Infrastructure Land Use Pennsylvania South Fayette View More

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