§ 14-159.20. Definitions. - North Carolina Statutes

Article22C.

Cave Protection Act.

§ 14‑159.20. Definitions.

The terms listed below havethe following definitions as used in this Article, unless the context clearlyrequires a different meaning:

(1)        "Cave"means any naturally occurring subterranean cavity.  The word "cave"includes or is synonymous with cavern, pit, well, sinkhole, and grotto;

(2)        "Commercialcave" means any cave with improved trails and lighting utilized by theowner for the purpose of exhibition to the general public as a profit or nonprofitenterprise, wherein a fee is collected for entry;

(3)        "Gate"means any structure or device located to limit or prohibit access or entry toany cave;

(4)        "Person"means any individual, partnership, firm, association, trust or corporation;

(5)        "Speleothem"means a natural mineral formation or deposit occurring in a cave.  Thisincludes or is synonymous with stalagmites, stalactites, helectites,anthodites, gypsum flowers, needles, angel's hair, soda straws, draperies,bacon, cave pearls, popcorn (coral), rimstone dams, columns, palettes, andflowstone.  Speleothems are commonly composed of calcite, epsomite, gypsum,aragonite, celestite and other similar minerals; and

(6)        "Owner"means a person who has title to land where a cave is located, including a personwho owns title to a leasehold estate in such land. (1987, c. 449.)