Sec. 27.21.200. - Coal exploration permits. - Alaska Statutes

(a) A person may conduct coal exploration activities that substantially disturb the natural land surface only according to regulations adopted by the commissioner. Before conducting the coal exploration activities, the person shall file with the commissioner a notice of intent to explore that includes a description of the exploration area and the period of proposed exploration.

(b) The regulations adopted by the commissioner under (a) of this section must include provisions for reclamation, according to the performance standards established under AS 27.21.210 , of land disturbed by the coal exploration activities, including reclamation of excavations, roads, and drill holes, and the removal of facilities and equipment.

(c) The commissioner shall keep information submitted to the commissioner under this section confidential upon request of the person submitting the information if the information is a

(1) trade secret or relates to a trade secret; or

(2) privileged competitive right of the applicant for the coal exploration permit.

(d) A person who conducts a coal exploration activity that substantially disturbs the natural land surface in violation of the requirements of this section or regulations adopted under this section is subject to the provisions of AS 27.21.240 .

(e) A person may not remove more than 250 tons of coal under a coal exploration permit without the specific written approval of the commissioner.