Md. Code Regs. 26.20.08.02

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 21, October 18, 2024

Section 26.20.08.02 - Prospecting Bond

A. If the Department determines, after review of the notice filed pursuant to this chapter, that the proposed prospecting operation is reasonably likely to cause substantial disturbance to the natural land surface or to cause serious harm to a water supply or water quality, the Bureau shall inform the person submitting the notice that the proposed prospecting operation may not begin before obtaining the written approval of the Bureau and submitting to the Bureau a prospecting bond in the amount specified under §B of this regulation.

B. The amount of any prospecting bond required under §A of this regulation shall be $1,500 per acre of affected land, unless the Bureau determines in writing that conditions affecting reclamation costs at an operation require an amount greater than $1,500 per acre in order to assure that the estimated total cost of reclamation will be covered.

C. The prospecting bond may be applied against the requirement for bonding a surface coal mining operation permit if a permit is obtained covering the prospecting area. If an open-pit mining permit is not obtained on the area, the bond shall be released, upon casing, or sealing of all drill holes, and satisfactory regrading and establishment of a permanent diverse species vegetative cover on all disturbed areas.

Md. Code Regs. 26.20.08.02

Regulations .02 were previously codified as COMAR 08.13.09.07 a A and B, C_E, and F_I, respectively. Recodification occurred in April, 1993. For a history of these regulations before April, 1993, see "Administrative History of COMAR 08.13.09 before April, 1993" which follows COMAR 26.20.01.