R652-20-2400. Operations Notification Period

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.