LIS

Virginia Law

Administrative Code

Creating a Report: Check the sections you'd like to appear in the report, then use the "Create Report" button at the bottom of the page to generate your report. Once the report is generated you'll then have the option to download it as a pdf, print or email the report.

Virginia Administrative Code
Title 4. Conservation And Natural Resources
Agency 25. Department of Energy
Chapter 31. Reclamation Regulations for Mineral Mining
12/22/2024

4VAC25-31-430. Completion of active mining.

A. Except as provided in subsection B of this section and with the director's approval, a mining operation where no mineral has been removed or overburden removed or regraded, or where no substantial mine-related activity has been conducted for a period of 12 consecutive months shall be declared complete, and total reclamation shall begin.

B. At the option of the operator and with the director's approval, an operation may remain under permit for an indefinite period during which no mineral or overburden is removed if the following conditions are met to the director's satisfaction:

1. All disturbed areas are reclaimed or adequately stabilized, or all erosion and sediment control systems are maintained in accordance with mining plans and proper engineering practices.

2. All drainage structures are constructed and maintained in accordance with mining plans and proper engineering practices.

3. All vegetation is maintained, including reseeding if necessary.

4. All improvements on site, including machinery and equipment, are maintained in a state of good repair and condition.

If the conditions listed in this subsection are not met, the permit may be revoked by the director in accordance with § 45.2-1213 of the Code of Virginia.

Statutory Authority

§ 45.2-103 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 24, eff. September 11, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 35, Issue 21, eff. July 25, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 13, eff. March 31, 2022.

Website addresses provided in the Virginia Administrative Code to documents incorporated by reference are for the reader's convenience only, may not necessarily be active or current, and should not be relied upon. To ensure the information incorporated by reference is accurate, the reader is encouraged to use the source document described in the regulation.

As a service to the public, the Virginia Administrative Code is provided online by the Virginia General Assembly. We are unable to answer legal questions or respond to requests for legal advice, including application of law to specific fact. To understand and protect your legal rights, you should consult an attorney.