(A) It is the purpose of this title to establish reasonable and uniform limitations, safeguards and controls for the future drilling, production, processing and storage of oil, gas and other hydrocarbon substances within such areas of the city as are permitted by the city’s zoning regulations (codified in Title 17) and code provisions.
(B) "Oil," as used in this chapter, means oil, gas, water and other hydrocarbon substances unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
(C) It is recognized that many citizens with substantial property investments do not own mineral rights and would not profit directly from oil development. The Council, therefore, finds that uncontrolled oil drilling and production would be detrimental to the general welfare of the residents of the city and to the public health, safety and morals.
(D) Limitations, safeguards and controls of oil production are deemed necessary to maintain the desirability of certain areas for residential, commercial or other land uses and are in the public interest and necessary to protect the health, safety and welfare of the city’s residents.
(E) It is contemplated that areas within the city may be explored for oil by directional drilling methods with surface drilling and production operations limited to a minimum of controlled drilling sites so located, spaced and regulated as to cause the least possible detriment to the community and the general welfare of the city.
(`78 Code, § 14.04.020.)