33.05.020 Purpose and intent.
Surface mining operations and the reclamation of mined lands are subject to the requirements of this title. This title supplements and should be reviewed in conjunction with the California Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (Cal. Pub. Res. Code §§ 2710 et seq.) hereinafter referred to as “SMARA,” which contains additional information and requirements applicable to surface mining operation and reclamation. The processing of materials mined on site (e.g., ore, gravel plants, etc.), and the retail sales of such mined and processed materials from the mine site is permitted, by this title, subject to the conditions of the special use permit.
It is the intent of the Board of Supervisors to create and maintain effective and comprehensive surface mining and reclamation policies and regulations to properly carry out the requirements of the SMARA, Cal. Pub. Res. Code § 2207, and the California Code of Regulations adopted pursuant thereto (California Code of Regulations Title 14, §§ 3500 et seq.) to ensure that:
A. Adverse environmental and other effects of surface mining operations will be prevented or minimized and that the reclamation of mined lands will provide for the beneficial, sustainable, long-term productive use of the mined and reclaimed lands; and
B. The production and conservation of minerals will be encouraged, while eliminating hazards to public health and safety and avoiding or minimizing adverse effects on the environment, including but not limited to geologic subsidence, air pollution, water quality degradation, damage to biological resources, flooding, erosion, degradation of scenic quality, and noise pollution. (Formerly 33.02)