1. (a) Drilling that is done solely for the purpose of exploration where only the drilled material is removed from the site does not require a permit. Exploration by drilling methods may proceed 10 days after the notice of intent to explore is received by the Department except if the following applies:

   1. (1) The applicant is notified by the Department to provide additional information to assure compliance with the environmental acts.
   2. (2) The area is located within the distance limitations of § 77.504 (relating to distance limitations and areas designated unsuitable for mining).
2. (b) Drill holes must be sealed upon completion or finished as specified in the exploration plan. Drill holes may be used as monitoring wells or water wells if the wells are properly constructed and developed for their intended purposes.

Authority

The provisions of this § 77.113 added under section 11(a) of the Noncoal Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act (52 P.S. § 3311(a)); section 5 of The Clean Streams Law (35 P.S. § 691.5); and section 1920-A of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § 510-20).

Source

The provisions of this § 77.113 added August 18, 2023, effective August 19, 2023, 53 Pa.B. 5159.

Cross References

This section cited in 25 Pa. Code § 77.109 (relating to noncoal exploration activities).