§ 22.36.010. Purpose.

A.

This Chapter provides regulations for surface mining and related mineral extraction operations, to provide for the reclamation of mined lands, prevent or minimize adverse environmental effects and safety hazards, and provide for the protection and subsequent beneficial use of mined and reclaimed lands. Because surface mining occurs in areas diverse in environmental and social conditions, reclamation operations and specifications may vary accordingly.

B.

These standards are adopted as required by the California Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA) (Section 2207 and 2710 et seq. of the Public Resources Code and Chapter 8, Title 14, California Code of Regulations, Section 3500 et seq.).

C.

Surface mining operations include the processes of removing overburden and mining directly from mineral deposits, open-pit mining of minerals naturally exposed, mining by the auger method, dredging and quarrying, or surface work incident to an underground mine. In addition, surface mining operations include, but are not limited to: Inplace distillation, retorting or leaching; the production and disposal of mining waste; prospecting and exploratory activities; borrow pitting, streambed skimming, segregation, recovery, and stockpiling of mined materials; and extractions of natural materials for building, construction.

[22.08.180 and 180a]