Mine operations are regulated by local, state, and federal agencies. Under SEPA, an environmental assessment is used to determine the impacts of the project, and public review and comment is included in the permitting process. Laws related to shorelines, wetlands, and forest practices further protect the environment. Water quality, discharges, and withdrawal and hazardous waste management related to mining operations are regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology. If the natural flow or bed of any water body is used, diverted, obstructed, or changed, hydraulic project approval by the Department of Fish and Wildlife is required.
Surface mines are also subject to zoning, land use and growth management regulations.
Local governments may also set standards for noise levels and for mineral processing operations such as crushing. Additional regulation by state and local agencies cover landfills, air quality, burning and archeological resources. Under the amended state law, a reclamation plan is required for each surface mine by 1998. The plan defines what the topography, vegetation and drainage for the site will be following mining. It describes how the mine permit- holder will achieve acceptable reclamation, the equipment necessary and how much it will cost.