1. At least 60 days prior to the commencement
of mineral exploration, mining or other operations which disturb the surface of
lands contained within or above a state mineral lease, lessee shall submit
plans for operations to the Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands. The
division shall review and make an environmental assessment and endorse or
stipulate changes in lessee's plan of operation within the review period. Where
feasible, the division's review shall be conducted concurrently with those of
other agencies. Review by another state or federal agency may be accepted by
the division in lieu of a separate division review. Following review, the
division may require the lessee to adopt a special rehabilitation program
required by lessor for the particular property in question. Lessee shall not
commence operations upon the land without a plan of operation approved by the
division.
2. Before any operator or
lessee shall commence actual drilling operations of any well or prior to
commencing any surface disturbance associated with the activity on lands
contained within a state mineral lease, the operator or lessee shall
simultaneously file with the division a legible copy of the application for
permit to drill (APD), as is filed with the Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining.
The division will review any request for drilling operation
and will grant approval, providing that the contemplated location and
operations are not in violation of any rules, order, or policy. Division
approval of the application for permit to drill on mineral resources
administered by the Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands is required
prior to approval by the Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining. Notice of approval
by the Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands will be given in an
expeditious manner to the Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining.
3. All lessees or designated operators under
state mineral leases have responsibility to be aware of notification
requirements and operating rules promulgated by the Division of Oil, Gas and
Mining with regard to mineral exploration, mining, or oil and gas drilling on
lands within the state of Utah. Lessees or operators shall fully comply with
all the rules or requirements and provide timely notifications, mine plans,
well completion reports, or other information as may be requested.
