Ala. Admin. Code r. 880-X-2A-.02

Current through Register Vol. 43, No. 1, October 31, 2024

Section 880-X-2A-.02 - Scope

These regulations, consisting of Rules 880-X-2A - 880-X-12A establish the procedures through which the Surface Mining Commission will implement the Alabama Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1981. They are divided into eleven chapters.

(a) Chapter 880-X-2 contains introductory information intended to serve as a guide to the rest of the regulations and other generally applicable guidance along with the definition of words and terms used throughout these regulations.

(b) Chapter 880-X-3 adopts the initial regulatory program which would apply to those persons having existing permitted operations until such time as permanent program permits are issued.

(c) Chapter 880-X-4 is not used at this time.

(d) Chapter 880-X-5 sets forth special rules applicable to surface coal mining hearings and appeals.

(e) Chapter 880-X-6 consists solely of licensing requirements.

(f) Chapter 880-X-7 implements the requirements of the Act for --

1. Designating lands which are unsuitable for all or certain types of surface coal mining operations;

2. Terminating designations no longer found to be appropriate; and

3. Prohibiting surface coal mining and reclamation operations on those lands or areas where the Act states that surface coal mining operations should not be permitted or should be permitted only after specified determinations are made.

(g) Chapter 880-X-8 governs applications for and decisions on permits for surface coal mining and reclamation operations. It also governs coal exploration and permit application and decisions on permits for special categories of coal mining. Regulations implementing the experimental practices provision of the Act are also included in Chapter 880-X-8.

(h) Chapter 880-X-9 sets forth requirements for performance bonds and public liability insurance for both surface mining and underground mining activities.

(i) Chapter 880-X-10 sets forth the environmental and other performance standards which apply to coal exploration and to surface coal mining and reclamation operations. The regulations establish the minimum requirements for operations. Performance standards applicable to special mining situations such as steep slope mining and prime farmlands are included.

(j) Chapter 880-X-11 sets forth the inspection, enforcement, and civil penalty provisions.

(k) Chapter 880-X-12 sets forth the requirements for the training, examination and certification of blasters.

Author:

Ala. Admin. Code r. 880-X-2A-.02

Statutory Authority:Code of Ala. 1975, §§ 9-16-71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 80, 85, 87, 90, 91, 92, 95.