DENVER (AP) — Colorado oil and gas regulators are considering a change that would enlarge the mandatory buffer zone between new wells and school property.

A proposal released Wednesday would require new wells to be at least 1,000 feet (305 meters) from buildings as well as outdoor areas that schools use, such as playgrounds and athletic fields.

Current rules require the same size buffer but measure it from school buildings, not outdoor areas. That allows wells to be closer to outdoor facilities.

Regulators could still allow wells closer if areas outside the buffer zone are deemed to be technic...