If a request for research on any paleontological resource is submitted, the commissioner shall determine whether or not a permit is required prior to or after the commencement of the research depending on the following conditions:

1. (1) The collection of a specimen may be authorized by the commissioner if specimens are in imminent danger of damage or loss through erosion, theft, or vandalism. Such a threat must be of such an immediate nature that the time involved in the normal permitting process will result in the loss of the specimen; and
2. (2) If the research activities involves the incidental collection of inconsequential fossils that are not central to the investigative study.

Source: 27 SDR 93, effective March 25, 2001.

General Authority: SDCL 5-1-15 , 5-1-16(4)(5).

Law Implemented: SDCL 5-1-16(4)(5).