Section 1785.15  Steep Slope Mining

a)         This Section applies to any persons who conducts or intends to conduct steep slope surface coal mining and reclamation operations, except:

1)         Where an operator proposes to conduct surface coal mining and reclamation operations on flat or gently rolling terrain, leaving a plain or predominantly flat area, but on which an occasional steep slope is encountered as the mining proceeds;

2)         Where a person obtains a permit under the provisions of Section 1785.14; or

3)         To the extent that a person obtains a permit incorporating a variance under Section 1785.16.

b)         Any application for a permit for surface coal mining and reclamation operations covered by this Section shall contain sufficient information to establish that the operations will be conducted in accordance with the requirements of 62 Ill. Adm. Code 1816.107.

c)         No permit shall be issued for any operations covered by this Section, unless the Department finds, in writing, that in addition to meeting all other requirements of 62 Ill. Adm. Code 1772 through 1785, the operation will be conducted in accordance with the requirements of 62 Ill. Adm. Code 1816.107 or 1817.107.

(Source:  Amended at 11 Ill. Reg. 8416, effective July 1, 1987)