Criteria for issuance of permits.

The division, in the exercise of its authority to issue permits as hereinafter provided, shall give consideration to and be guided by the following criteria:

(1) The nature, character and location of the lands involved; whether rural, such as farms, groves, or ranches, or urban property vacant or presently developed for residential or business purposes or are in such a location or of such a nature as to make such improvements and developments a probability in the near future.

(2) The nature, type and extent of ownership of the applicant, including such matters as the length of time the applicant has owned the rights claimed without having performed any of the exploratory operations so granted or authorized.

(3) The proven or indicated likelihood of the presence of oil, gas or related minerals in such quantities as to warrant the exploration and extraction of such products on a commercially profitable basis.

(4) For activities and operations concerning a natural gas storage facility, the nature, structure, and proposed use of the natural gas storage reservoir is suitable for the storage and recovery of gas without adverse effect to public health or safety or the environment.