Orphan wells

I just would like to know how much money you need for the government to let you operate an orphan well

Depends on the state. Some states have much higher bond requirements than others.

But beyond the bond, you need to consider all of the liabilities for future plugging and other lease cleanup expenses that you may become liable for. The shallower the well the cheaper plugging expenses are (generally speaking). I’d want to make sure you have good wellbore integrity before assuming the liability on one. An expert in the area could help make that (probable) determination before you touch it. In Kansas if you do anything (physically) to an abandoned well you may become liable for it so be wary.

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Kitchen has good advice. You need to track down the last owner and see if they are still in business and if they already have a bond at the state. You may have to buy it from them. Also, if you take over the operator duties, you will need a good attorney, accountant, liability insurance, suggest you put the well in an LLC so you cannot be sued personally for any liability (additional expense to set up), need a purchaser for picking up the liquids and gas, know what the economic potential is or if the well is dead due to mechanical damage or has already produced what it could, etc. The endeavor is not trivial and not for the amateur without professional advice.