Mining, Toxics & Hazardous Waste

We have a demonstrated expertise in the area of mining, including Californias State Mining and Reclamation Act of 1974 (SMARA). We have represented cities through the process of negotiating and issuing mining entitlements, the creation of mining ordinances to effectively regulate mining operations and the enforcement of such regulations. Our attorneys have successfully handled litigation challenging lead agency decisions to limit mining operations, implemented appropriate reclamation plans to secure responsible and beneficial uses following the completion of mining activities. We have represented mining lead agencies before the State Mining Board and developed mining legislation and secured its adoption. We have developed mining taxation ordinances and secured voter approval to defray the environmental costs of mining and raise revenue for cities.

• Expertise
• Land use matters concerning mining entitlements
• Developing and revising reclamation plans for full reclamation
• Financial Assurances and creative security mechanisms
• Development Agreements with mining operators
• Legislation concerning lead agency regulatory authority
• State regulatory oversight and administrative proceedings
• Etc