Any mining operation permit may be transferred. If one operator succeeds another at any uncompleted operation, the successor operator shall make application for a transfer to the Board of Minerals and Environment. The board may not deny a transfer unless the operation is not in compliance or cannot be brought into compliance, with all applicable local, state, and federal laws pertaining to the operation before the transfer, or unless the successor operator is in violation of state statutes, rules, mining permit conditions, or requirements with respect to any mining operation in the state. The board shall release the first operator from all liability as to that particular reclamation operation and shall release the first operator’s surety as to the operation if the successor operator assumes, as part of the successor operator’s obligation under this chapter, all liability for the reclamation of the affected land, and the obligation is covered by an appropriate surety as to the affected land. Notice of a transfer shall be given to the board and accompanied by a one hundred dollar transfer fee.

Source: SL 1982, ch 305, § 47; SL 1988, ch 360, § 2; SL 2011, ch 165, § 205.