Iowa Code Title V. Agriculture [Chs. 159-215A] § 207.19. Surface effects of underground coal mining operations

1. The provisions of this chapter shall be applicable to surface operations and surface impacts incident to an underground coal mine with such modifications to the permit application requirements, permit approval or denial procedures, and bond requirements as are necessary to accommodate the distinct difference between surface and underground coal mining. The division shall promulgate such modifications in its rules to allow for such distinct differences and still fulfill the purposes of this chapter and be consistent with the requirements of Pub. L. No. 95-87, § 516, codified at 30 U.S.C. § 1266, and the permanent regulations issued pursuant to that Act.

2. In order to protect the stability of the land, the division shall suspend underground coal mining under urbanized areas, cities, and communities and adjacent to industrial or commercial buildings, major impoundments, or permanent streams if the administrator finds imminent danger to inhabitants of the urbanized areas, cities, and communities.