Montana Title 82. Minerals, Oil, and Gas § 82-2-303. Written notice and approval required before commencement of operations

(1) The land or surface of land not owned in fee by such person may not be disturbed in any manner until the owner or manager of the surface of said land and the owner of a possessory right to said land are given notice in writing, accompanied by a map showing the specific locations involved, of such person's intent or desire to enter upon such land, which will sufficiently disclose the plan of work and operations, including contemplated measures for the protection and restoration of the land and waters, to enable the owner or manager of the land and any person holding a possessory right to such land to evaluate the extent of disturbance contemplated and the effectiveness and sufficiency of the protection and restoration measures planned.

(2) Before commencement of any work or operations on any such lands, such person must first obtain from the surface owner of private land specific written approval of the proposed work or operations.

(3) In the case of city, county, state, or federally owned lands, such person must first obtain the authorization or permit, if any, required by the applicable law and the regulations of the governmental agency or board charged by law with the administration or management of the surface of such land.