dcrodriguez/Code-of-Virginia huggingface dataset:
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-600.  Consent required before working mine near land of another.
No owner or tenant of any land containing coal within the Commonwealth shall open or sink, dig, excavate, or work in any mine on such land within five feet of the line dividing such land from that of another person without the written consent of every person interested in or having title to such adjoining lands or mineral rights in possession, reversion, or remainder, or of the guardian of any such person if the person is under a disability. Any person who violates this section shall forfeit $500 to any person injured by such activity and to anyone whose consent is required but not obtained.

Code 1950, § 45-91; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-102; 1978, c. 118; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.310; 1997, c. 390; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-601.  Adjacent owner to be permitted to survey mine; proceedings to compel entry for survey.
A. The owner, tenant, or occupant of any land or coal on or in which a mine is opened and worked, or his agent, shall permit any person interested in or having title to any land or mineral rights coterminal with that in which such mine is located to have ingress and egress with surveyors and assistants to explore and survey such mine at his own expense if such person has reason to believe his property is being trespassed upon. The purpose of such survey shall be to ascertain whether a violation of § 45.2-600 has occurred. However, such person is not entitled to enter the property more often than once a month. Every owner, tenant, occupant, or agent who refuses such permission, exploration, or survey shall forfeit $20 for each refusal to the person so refused.

B. The judge of the general district court of the county or city in which such mine is located, before whom any complaint of such refusal shall be made, may issue a summons to such owner, tenant, occupant, or agent to answer such complaint. On the return of the summons executed and proof that (i) the complainant has a right of entry and (ii) such right has been refused without sufficient cause, the judge shall designate an early and convenient time for such entry to be made and issue a warrant commanding the sheriff of the county or city to attend and prevent any obstruction or impediment to such entry, exploration, or survey. The costs of such summons and a fee of $3 to the sheriff executing the warrant shall be paid by the person whose refusal caused the complaint. If the court dismisses the complaint, the costs shall be paid by the party making the complaint.

Code 1950, §§ 45-92, 45-93; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-103; 1978, c. 118; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.311; 1997, c. 390; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-602.  Petition to establish a trust for missing coal owners.
A. Any coal owner or lessee who (i) has more than a 50 percent interest in the coal on a particular tract and (ii) seeks to impress a trust upon unknown or missing owners of such tract of coal may petition the circuit court in the county or city containing the majority of the tract of coal to establish a trust to protect the interests of all coal owners and lessees.

B. The petition shall:

1. Describe the particular tract of coal at issue;

2. List all known, missing, and unknown owners of interests in such tract of coal and set forth the efforts to locate and identify the missing or unknown owners of the interests and provide any other information known to the petitioner that could be helpful in identifying or locating every present owner thereof; and

3. Include the proposed terms of a lease to be offered to the trust. Such lease shall be typical of other arm's-length leases in the area.

C. The petitioner shall establish to the satisfaction of the court that a diligent effort has been made to identify and locate the present owners of such interests.

2003, c. 775, § 45.1-161.311:3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-603.  Advertisement upon filing of petition.
Immediately upon filing the petition pursuant to § 45.2-602, the petitioner shall advertise a notice of the pending action, including a statement that the action is brought for the purpose of impressing a trust authorizing the execution of a valid and present coal lease for the development of a tract of coal described in the petition pursuant to the provisions of subsection B of § 45.2-602. Such notice shall appear in a local newspaper of general circulation at least once a week for two consecutive weeks.

2003, c. 775, § 45.1-161.311:4; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-604.  Court may declare trust; trustee sale of lease.
A. If, upon presentation of a petition pursuant to § 45.2-602 to the circuit court in the county or city containing the majority of the tract of coal, it appears to the court that development of the interests in such tract of coal will be advantageous to the unknown or missing owners, the court shall declare a trust in the coal interests and appoint a trustee for such interests. The court shall authorize the trustee to execute a lease covering the coal interests in the identified tract of coal. The order of the court shall provide for all the terms and provisions of the lease that the trustee is authorized to make.

B. The trustee shall proceed in compliance with the provisions of the order to execute the lease and after executing the lease shall submit a report thereof to the court.

C. The court shall not authorize a trustee's lease upon the coal interests of any owner whose identity and location are known, can be ascertained, or are discovered as a result of the action brought under this article. Any such owner may intervene as a matter of right at any time prior to the judgment approving the trustee's lease for the purpose of establishing his title to the coal interests. If such coal owner's claim is established to the satisfaction of the court, the court shall dismiss the action at the plaintiff's cost.

2003, c. 775, § 45.1-161.311:5; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-605.  Duty of trustee; sale of lease; distribution of funds.
A. The trustee shall collect the proceeds from the sale of the lease and hold and invest such proceeds for the use and benefit of the unknown or missing owners. The court may authorize the trustee to expend an amount not to exceed 10 percent of the funds collected by the trustee for the purpose of searching for the unknown or missing owners.

B. Five years after the date of first commercial production of the coal interests, the proceeds in the trust shall be disposed of pursuant to the Virginia Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act (§ 55.1-2500 et seq.).

2003, c. 775, § 45.1-161.311:6; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-606.  Payment of attorney fees, expenses, and court costs.
All attorney fees, expenses, and court costs incident to the original proceedings shall be paid by the lessee if a lease is executed and by the plaintiff if for any reason no lease is executed. Subsequent to entry of judgment, all allowable attorney fees, expenses, and court costs shall be paid out of funds controlled by the trustee.

2003, c. 775, § 45.1-161.311:7; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-607.  Production of coal by majority interest owner; petition to establish trust for known coal owners.
A. Any coal owner or lessee who (i) has at least a two-thirds interest in the coal on a particular tract of land and (ii) seeks to extract such coal may petition the circuit court in the county or city containing the majority of the tract of coal to establish a trust for known coal owners and lessees.

B. The petition shall:

1. Describe the particular tract of coal at issue;

2. List all known owners of interests in the tract of coal; and

3. Include the proposed terms of a lease to be offered to each minority owner. Such lease shall be typical of other arm's-length leases in the area.

C. The petitioner shall establish to the satisfaction of the court that a diligent effort has been made to obtain the consent of each minority owner to lease his interest in the coal. The petitioner shall demonstrate to the court that (i) the production of the coal by the petitioner's lessee is of economic benefit to all parties; (ii) if the coal is not produced, the economic value of the coal is lost and the economic benefit of owning the coal is decreased; and (iii) there is no practical method for dividing such coal among the owners without extracting the coal.

D. Immediately upon filing the petition, the petitioner shall send by registered or certified mail, with a return receipt requested, notice of the petition to the party subject to the petition.

E. The court may appoint a trustee and authorize the trustee to execute a lease pursuant to § 45.2-604.

F. The court shall escrow or direct the trustee to escrow the proceeds of the lease attributable to each of the minority interests until such minority owner's claim is established to the satisfaction of the court.

2003, c. 775, § 45.1-161.311:8; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-608.  "Public uses" defined; mining, etc., of coal essential business; subject to seizure by Commonwealth.
A. As used in this article, "public uses" means the mining, production, or marketing of coal for the purpose of providing and furnishing heat or power to the people of the Commonwealth.

B. Any person engaged in the business of the mining, production, or marketing of coal, any portion of which is customarily used in the manufacture of heat or power, is hereby declared to be engaged in a business essential to the health, safety, and welfare of the people of the Commonwealth. Under the conditions and in the manner set forth in this article, such business may be seized and operated by the Commonwealth, or any agency created and organized for such purpose, for public uses.

Code 1950, § 45-145; 1950, p. 29; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-145, 45.1-146; 1994, c. 28, §§ 45.1-161.312, 45.1-161.313; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-609.  Interruption of public uses; proclamation of emergency; seizure.
When in the judgment of the Governor there exists a substantial interruption or an imminent threat of a substantial interruption of public uses, he shall proclaim that an emergency exists in the Commonwealth that endangers the health, safety, and welfare of its people and the enjoyment of the public and private property within its borders. It shall then be the duty of the Governor to seize and operate the property of any person used in the mining, production, or marketing of coal that the Governor deems essential for the protection of the health, safety, and welfare of the people of the Commonwealth.

Code 1950, § 45-147; 1950, p. 30; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-147; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.314; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-610.  Additional powers of Governor to operate seized properties.
The Governor may exercise the powers and authority to possess and operate for public uses any person's property used in the mining, production, or marketing of coal in the manner provided in this article.

Code 1950, § 45-148; 1950, p. 30; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-148; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.315; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-612.  Negotiating purchase or lease of coal properties.
Whenever the Governor proclaims that an emergency exists under this article and appoints the Virginia Fuel Commission pursuant to § 45.2-611, the Commission shall make a bona fide attempt to negotiate the purchase or lease of the coal property of any person engaged in the mining, production, or marketing of coal as the Commission deems necessary to accomplish the purposes of this article. However, where such negotiations cannot be promptly made due to the incapacity of the owner of the property, or for any other reason, the Commission is not required to attempt to negotiate for the acquisition of such property.

Code 1950, § 45-150; 1950, p. 31; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-150; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.319; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-613.  Proceedings for condemnation.
A. Proceedings for condemnation pursuant to this article shall be instituted and conducted in the name of the Commission, and the procedure shall, except as altered by the provisions of this article, be carried out as provided in Chapter 3 (§ 25.1-300 et seq.) of Title 25.1.

B. The proceedings for condemnation shall be by petition to the circuit court of the county or city in which the land, property, or property right, or the major portion thereof sought to be temporarily acquired, is located. The petition shall set forth with reasonable particularity a description and designation of the interest, right, or property intended to be temporarily taken, the name of the owner of the interest, right, or property that is to be taken or affected and such other facts as the Commission deems necessary to give adequate information to the court and all persons in interest. The petition shall be verified by oath by a member of the Commission.

C. Upon (i) the filing of the petition described in subsection B in the office of the clerk of the circuit court to which it is addressed, together with as many copies thereof as there are defendants upon which it is to be served, and (ii) the depositing with the clerk for the custody of the court, and for the benefit of the owners of the property taken or affected, an amount of money that the Commission estimates to be just compensation for the property temporarily taken and any damage done, the Commission shall thereupon seize and take possession, custody, and control of the property. The amount of money deposited pursuant to clause (ii) shall not limit the amount of just compensation to be allowed to the owner of the property. The service of such petition upon the defendant shall be made in the manner prescribed by the Rules of Supreme Court of Virginia with respect to Practice and Procedure in Civil Actions in effect at the time the petition is filed.

Code 1950, § 45-151; 1950, p. 31; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-151; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.320; 2003, c. 940; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-614.  Expense of acquiring and operating coal property; funds derived from operation.
The expense of acquiring and operating any property acquired under this article shall be paid out of moneys transferred from the general fund that are not otherwise appropriated. Such transfer shall be made upon such authorization as the Governor prescribes and shall be credited to the account of the Commission, and all funds and revenues derived from or received as a result of such operations shall be paid into the state treasury and credited to the same account. Any amount transferred upon authorization of the Governor from the general fund shall be designated as the "Capital Account" of the Commission. Such amount, or the residue thereof, together with any surplus that accrues, shall be returned to the general fund in the event of liquidation or, in the absence of liquidation, in such installments and at such times as the Governor prescribes.

Code 1950, § 45-152; 1950, p. 32; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-152; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.321; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-615. Restoration of property to owner or operator.
A. Whenever (i) the owner or operator engaged in the business of the mining, production, or marketing of coal whose property has been acquired by the Commission notifies the Commission in writing that he can and will resume operation and render normal service, and satisfies the Commission of the correctness of such notice, or (ii) in the judgment of the Governor, the emergency declared by him no longer exists, the Commission shall restore the possession of the property so acquired by it to such owner or operator upon his request. In the event the Commission refuses such restoration of possession, the owner or operator shall have the right to have a ruling issued requiring the Commission to show cause why such possession shall not be restored, and the court shall determine the matter as provided in this section.

B. Any such owner or operator shall be entitled to receive reasonable, proper, and lawful compensation for the use of the property acquired by the Commonwealth pursuant to this article and shall be paid such compensation out of the state treasury. In the event the Commission has acquired such property by purchase, the owner or operator from whom it was acquired shall, upon reacquisition, repay the purchase price less fair compensation for the use of such property. In the event the Commission and the owner or operator are unable to agree upon the amount of such compensation, either party in interest may file a petition in the circuit court for the county or city in which the property is located for the purpose of having the amount of compensation judicially determined. The court shall, without a jury, hear such evidence and argument of counsel as it deems appropriate and (i) render judgment thereon or (ii) refer to a commissioner such questions as are considered proper and act upon the commissioner's report as in any other civil proceeding. An appeal shall lie to the Court of Appeals from any final judgment of the court rendered upon the provisions of this article.

Code 1950, § 45-153; 1950, p. 32; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-153; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.322; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 387, 489.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-616.  Article subject to provisions of general law.
The provisions of this article are subject to all of the provisions of general law applicable to coal mining operations.

Code 1950, § 45-154; 1950, p. 33; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-154; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.318; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-617.  Definitions.
As used in this article, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Coal refuse" means waste material resulting from the mining and screening or processing of coal.

"Coal slurry" means waste water and impurities produced as the result of coal washing and preparation of coal for market, containing a combination of coal, shale, claystone, siltstone, sandstone, limestone, or related materials that are excavated, moved, and disposed of from underground workings.

"Mine refuse impoundment" means a mine refuse pile that retains water that has been used in carrying out any part of the process necessary in the production or preparation of coal.

"Mine refuse pile" means a pile of coarse or fine coal refuse that is a result of the mining or screening process that may be stacked, spread, or graded and covers 20 acre-feet or more.

"Operator" means any person who operates, controls, or supervises a retaining dam or a mine refuse impoundment.

"Retaining dam" means an artificial barrier or obstruction that is designed to impound water, coal slurry, or silt (i) to an elevation of five feet or more above the upstream toe of the structure and has a storage volume of 20 acre-feet or more or (ii) to an elevation of 20 feet or more measured at the open channel spillway or from the crest of the dam in a closed system, regardless of storage volume.

"Silt" means fine particles resulting from a mining operation, suspended in or deposited by water.

"Water" means liquid or slurry resulting from the processing of coal in mining operations.

2005, c. 3, § 45.1-221.1; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 6 (Coal Mining Property, Interests, Adjacent Owners, and Dams)
§ 45.2-618.  Design and construction of retaining dam or mine refuse impoundment; designs and other data to be submitted to Chief.
A. Any new retaining dam or mine refuse impoundment, or the modification of an existing retaining dam or mine refuse impoundment, shall be designed and constructed by or under the direction of a licensed professional engineer. Such requirement shall only apply to a mine refuse impoundment if it is designed to impound water, coal slurry, or silt (i) to an elevation of five feet or more above the upstream toe of the structure and has a storage volume of 20 acre-feet or more or (ii) to an elevation of 20 feet or more measured at the open channel spillway or from the crest of the dam in a closed system, regardless of storage volume. The design, construction specifications, and other related data, including final abandonment plans for such retaining dam or mine refuse impoundment, shall be certified by the licensed professional engineer.

B. No person shall place, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, or abandon any retaining dam or mine refuse impoundment until the operator has filed an application for and received approval from the Chief for such construction or modification. However, routine repairs that do not affect the engineering design criteria or safety of an approved retaining dam or mine refuse impoundment are not subject to such application and approval requirements.

1974, c. 323, § 45.1-222; 1984, c. 590; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-700.  Scope of chapter.
The provisions of this chapter and Chapter 8 (§ 45.2-800 et seq.) shall apply to the operation of any underground coal mine in the Commonwealth and shall supplement the provisions of Chapter 5 (§ 45.2-500 et seq.).

1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.105; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-701.  Regulations governing conditions and practices at underground coal mines.
A. The Chief may, after consultation with the Virginia Coal Mine Safety Board, created by Article 9 (§ 45.2-576 et seq.) of Chapter 5, and in accordance with the provisions of Article 2 (§ 2.2-4006 et seq.) of the Administrative Process Act, adopt regulations necessary to ensure safe and healthy working conditions in underground coal mines in the Commonwealth. Such regulations governing underground coal mines shall relate to:

1. The maintenance, operation, storage, and transportation of any mechanical or electrical equipment, device, or machinery used for any purpose in the underground mining of coal;

2. Safety and health standards for the protection of the life, health, and property of, and the prevention of injuries to, any person involved in or likely to be affected by any underground coal mining operation. Such standards shall include the control of dust concentration levels; the use of respiratory equipment and ventilating systems; the development and maintenance of roof control systems; the handling of combustible materials and rock dusting; the installation, maintenance, and use of electrical devices, equipment, cables, and wires; fire protection, including equipment, emergency evacuation plans, emergency shelters, and communication facilities; the use and storage of explosives; and the establishment and maintenance of barriers in underground coal mines around gas and oil wells. The Chief may adopt regulations setting forth specific occupations and conditions under which a miner is prohibited from working alone underground; and

3. The storage or disposal of any matter or materials (i) extracted or disturbed as the result of an underground coal mining operation or (ii) used in the mining operation or for the refinement or preparation of the materials extracted from the coal mining operation, so that such matter or material does not threaten the health or safety of the miners or the general public.

B. The Chief shall not adopt any regulation establishing any requirement for the operation of, or conditions at, an underground coal mine that is inconsistent with requirements established by the Act.

Code 1950, §§ 45-8, 45-84; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-104; 1972, c. 784; 1974, c. 323; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 120; 1982, c. 118; 1990, c. 963; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.106; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-702.  Standards for regulations.
In adopting regulations pursuant to § 45.2-701, the Chief shall consider:

1. Standards utilized and generally recognized by the coal mining industry;

2. Standards established by recognized professional coal mining organizations and groups;

3. The federal mine safety law;

4. Research, demonstrations, experiments, and such other information that is available regarding the maintenance of the highest degree of safety protection, including the latest available scientific data in the field, the technical feasibility of the standards, and the experience gained under the Act and other mine safety laws; and

5. Such other criteria as are necessary for the protection of the safety and health of miners and other persons or property likely to be endangered by underground coal mines or related operations.

Code 1950, §§ 45-8, 45-84; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-104; 1972, c. 784; 1974, c. 323; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 120; 1982, c. 118; 1990, c. 963; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.107; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-703.  Duties of mine foreman.
A. The mine foreman shall see that the requirements of the Act that pertain to his duties and to the health and safety of the miners are fully complied with at all times.

B. The mine foreman shall see that every miner employed to work in such mine, before beginning work therein, is aware of all hazardous conditions incident to his work in such mine. Any imminent danger that cannot be removed within a reasonable time shall be reported to the Chief by the quickest available means.

Code 1950, §§ 45-35, 45-40; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-17; 1978, c. 729; 1993, c. 170; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.249; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2015, cc. 103, 397; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-704.  Employment and duties of top persons; plan for excavation of shaft or slope.
A. During the construction or modification of any shaft or slope mine, the person engaged in the actual construction or modification of such mine shall employ one or more top persons certified pursuant to § 45.2-534. It is the duty of such top person to examine for proper and safe practices and materials used during the construction or modification of a shaft or slope mine. Such duties shall at all times be performed in the immediate vicinity of the shaft or slope under construction.

B. Prior to commencing the excavation of any shaft or slope, the operator shall submit to the Department a copy of the plan that includes the following: (i) the name and location of the mine and shaft or slope; (ii) a description of the work and methods to be used in the construction of the shaft or slope; (iii) a description of the methods to be used to ensure wall and roof stability; (iv) a description of the system of ventilation to be used, including procedures for evacuation of the shaft or slope if a fan stoppage occurs; (v) details of hoisting equipment to be used; and (vi) such other information as the Chief requires. The excavation of such shaft or slope shall not begin until the plan is approved by the Chief.

1980, c. 442, § 45.1-20.1; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.250; 2011, cc. 826, 862; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-705.  Employment of inexperienced underground miners.
A. An inexperienced underground miner shall be required to work with an experienced underground miner for a total of at least six months following the start of underground employment. However, an experienced surface miner shall only be required to work with an experienced underground miner for a total of at least 60 days following the start of underground employment.

B. No inexperienced underground miner shall be assigned, allowed, or required to perform work alone in any area where there is a potential danger to his safety unless he can communicate with others or be heard or seen.

Code 1950, §§ 45-35, 45-40; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-17; 1978, c. 729; 1993, c. 170; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.251; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-706.  Employment of authorized persons.
No miner shall be placed in charge of a cutting, loading, drilling, continuous miner, or timbering machine in any mine if such miner is not an authorized person capable of determining the safety of the roof and ribs of a working place. Such miner shall also be capable of detecting the presence of explosive gas and shall undergo examination by a mine inspector or other instructor certified by the Board of Coal Mining Examiners and authorized by the Chief to determine the miner's fitness to detect explosive gas before being permitted to have charge of a machine in such mine.

Code 1950, §§ 45-7, 45-12, 45-68.4, 45-69, 45-73, 45-75, 45-78, 45-79, 45-81, 45-83; 1950, p. 156; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-21; 1976, c. 598; 1978, cc. 222, 489; 1982, c. 255; 1984, cc. 178, 590; 1988, c. 577; 1993, cc. 171, 442; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.252; 2012, cc. 109, 241; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-707.  Mining in proximity to gas or oil wells.
A. Except as provided in subsection D, an operator who plans to remove coal, drive any passage or entry, or extend any workings in any mine within 500 feet of any gas or oil well already drilled into the projected mine workings or in the process of being drilled into the projected mine workings shall file with the Chief a notice that such mining is taking place or will take place. The notice shall include a copy of parts of the maps and plans required under § 45.2-542 that show the mine workings or projected mine workings that are within 500 feet of the well. The operator shall simultaneously mail copies of such notice, maps, and plans by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the well operator and the Gas and Oil Inspector appointed pursuant to § 45.2-1604. Each notice shall contain a certification made by the operator that he has complied with the provisions of this subsection.

B. Subsequent to the filing of the notice required by subsection A, the operator may proceed with mining operations in accordance with the maps and plans; however, without the prior approval of the Chief, he shall not remove any coal, drive any entry, or extend any workings in any mine within 200 feet of any gas or oil well already drilled or in the process of being drilled into the projected mine workings.

C. The Chief shall adopt regulations that prescribe the procedure to be followed by mine operators in petitioning the Chief for approval to conduct such activities within 200 feet of a gas or oil well or a vertical ventilation hole drilled or in the process of being drilled into the projected mine workings. Each operator who files such a petition shall mail copies of the petition, maps, and plans by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the well operator and the Gas and Oil Inspector no later than the day of filing. The Gas and Oil Inspector and the operator of the gas or oil well or vertical ventilation hole shall have standing to object to any petition filed under this section. Such objection shall be filed within 10 days following the date such petition is filed.

D. Procedures for safely mining in proximity to or through a coalbed methane well or a vertical ventilation hole developed for methane drainage in a mine shall be addressed in the bleeder system plan for that mine required by § 45.2-837.

1990, c. 92, § 45.1-92.1; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.121; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-709.  Roof, face, and ribs to be secure.
A. All underground active workings and travel ways shall be secured and controlled to protect miners from a fall of roof, face, or ribs. Loose roof and any loose or overhanging ribs or face shall be taken down or supported.

B. The mining method that the mine operator follows shall not expose any miner to a hazardous condition caused by the excessive width of a room or entry, a faulty pillar-recovery method, or any other hazardous mining method or working condition.

Code 1950, §§ 45-68.1 to 45-68.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-40, 45.1-41; 1975, c. 520; 1978, cc. 118, 729; 1980, c. 338; 1982, c. 234; 1984, c. 590; 1988, c. 577; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.108; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-710.  Roof control plans.
A. Each underground coal mine shall have a roof control plan approved by the Chief. Each plan shall include (i) a minimum standard for adequately controlling the roof, face, and ribs; (ii) a description of mining methods used; (iii) a listing and specification of roof and rib support materials; (iv) instruction for the installation of temporary and permanent roof supports; (v) a description of any pillar recovery methods; (vi) applicable drawings that demonstrate the width of each opening, each roof support installation sequence, and each pillar recovery sequence; and (vii) any additional requirements deemed necessary by the Chief. The initial submission of any roof control plan shall include maps of mine projections, overlying and underlying mine workings, coal contours, and surface contours. If changes are to be made in the mining system that necessitate any change in the roof control plan, the plan shall be revised and approved by the Chief prior to implementing the new mining system.

B. The Chief shall, where he deems necessary, prescribe adequate minimum standards for systematic support of mine roof, suitable to the roof conditions and mining system of each mine. Such standards shall be incorporated into an approved roof control plan for the mine.

C. Failure to comply with the approved roof control plan for the mine shall constitute a violation of this section.

D. The approved roof control plan shall be posted conspicuously at the mine and a copy shall be available at each working section of the mine.

E. The minimum standards and plan shall provide for temporary support at all active workings, without regard to natural condition.

F. If the minimum standards do not afford adequate protection, such additional supports shall be installed as necessary. Such additional supports shall be described in the plan.

G. This section shall not apply to any roof control system installed prior to January 27, 1988, so long as the support system continues to effectively control the roof, face, and ribs.

Code 1950, § 45-68.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-40; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 729; 1984, c. 590; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.109; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2011, cc. 826, 862; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-711.  Instruction of miners.
The operator or his agent shall instruct all miners in the removal and installation of temporary and permanent roof supports as may be required by the roof control plan.

Code 1950, § 45-68.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-40; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 729; 1984, c. 590; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.109; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2011, cc. 826, 862; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-712.  Copies of plan.
The operator or his agent shall, upon request, furnish a copy of the roof control plan to any miner engaged in removing or installing a temporary or permanent roof support.

Code 1950, § 45-68.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-40; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 729; 1984, c. 590; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.111; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-713.  Automated temporary roof support systems.
The Chief shall adopt regulations requiring automated temporary roof support systems for the installation of roof bolts.

Code 1950, §§ 45-68.1, 45-68.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-41; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 118; 1980, c. 338; 1982, c. 234; 1988, c. 577; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.114; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-714.  Supplies of materials for supports.
A. The operator or his agent shall provide at or near each working place an ample supply of suitable materials of proper size with which to secure the roof, face, and ribs of such working place in a safe manner. Suitable supply materials shall be provided for variations in seam height. If the operator or his agent fails to provide such suitable materials, the mine foreman shall cause all miners to withdraw from the mine, or the portion thereof affected, until such materials or supplies are received.

B. Safety posts, jacks, or temporary crossbars shall be set close to the face before other operations are begun and as needed thereafter if any miner goes inby the last permanent roof support.

C. Unless an automated temporary roof support system is used, safety posts or jacks shall be used to protect miners during removal of roof material, installation of crossbars, drilling of roof bolt holes, installation of roof bolts, or performance of any other work that would reasonably require roof support to protect the miners involved.

D. The operator or his agent shall make immediately available for emergency use at each mine site at least two lifting devices with a combined total of at least 80 tons lifting capacity. Each individual lifting device shall have 20 tons or greater lifting capacity.

Code 1950, §§ 45-68.1, 45-68.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-41; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 118; 1980, c. 338; 1982, c. 234; 1988, c. 577; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.115; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-715.  Examination and testing of roof, face, and ribs.
A. The operator or his agent shall instruct every miner on how to visually examine and conduct sound and vibration testing of roof, face, and ribs.

B. Any miner exposed to danger from a fall of roof, face, or ribs shall visually examine and, if conditions permit, test the roof, face, and ribs by sounding the roof before starting work or before starting a machine and as needed thereafter to ensure safety. If hazardous conditions are found, the miner discovering such conditions shall either (i) correct the conditions immediately by taking down the loose material, installing proper timbering, or installing proper roof support before work is continued or any other work is done or (ii) cause all miners to vacate the place.

C. At least once each shift, or more often if necessary, the mine foreman or other certified person shall examine and test the roof, face, and ribs of each active working section where coal is being produced while one or more miners are working in such section. Any place in which a hazardous condition is found by the mine foreman shall be made safe in his presence or under his direction or all miners shall be withdrawn from such place. Such hazardous condition and corrective actions taken shall be recorded in the on-shift record book at the mine.

Code 1950, §§ 45-61, 45-68.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-42; 1976, c. 598; 1978, c. 118; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.116; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-716.  Mapping of roof falls.
Any unplanned roof fall that is required to be reported in accordance with § 45.2-556 shall be marked on a map maintained at the mine to indicate the specific location of the fall.

Code 1950, §§ 45-61, 45-68.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-42; 1976, c. 598; 1978, c. 118; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.117; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-717.  Unsafe conditions.
A. No person shall work or travel under unsupported roof except to install temporary supports in accordance with the approved roof control plan. Any area inby the breaker line where second mining has been or is being conducted shall be considered unsupported.

B. If roof, face, or rib conditions are found to be unsafe, no person shall start any other work in the area where such conditions exist until the conditions have been corrected by taking down loose material or securely supporting the roof, face, or ribs pursuant to subsection B of § 45.2-715.

C. A bar of proper length shall be used to pull down any loose material discovered.

Code 1950, §§ 45-61, 45-68.1, 45-68.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-41, 45.1-42; 1975, c. 520; 1976, c. 598; 1978, c. 118; 1980, c. 338; 1982, c. 234; 1988, c. 577; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.118; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.

Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-718.  Removal of supports.
A. No person shall deliberately remove any support in an active area unless equivalent protection is provided.

B. Any person who accidentally knocks out or dislodges a support shall promptly replace the support.

Code 1950, §§ 45-68.1, 45-68.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-41; 1975, c. 520; 1978, c. 118; 1980, c. 338; 1982, c. 234; 1988, c. 577; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.119; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
Code of Virginia — Title 45.2 (Mines, Minerals, and Energy), Chapter 7 (Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction)
§ 45.2-721.  Underground storage of explosives and detonators.
A. If a supply of explosives or detonators for use in one or more sections is stored underground, it shall be kept in a section box or magazine of substantial construction with no metal exposed on the inside. Such box or magazine shall be located at least 25 feet from any roadway or power wire and in a reasonably dry, well rock-dusted location protected from falls of roof. In a pitching bed, where it is not possible to comply with such location requirement, such box shall be placed in a niche cut into the solid coal or rock.

B. If explosives and detonators are both stored in the section, they shall be kept in separate boxes or magazines not less than 12 feet apart if feasible; if kept in the same box or magazine, they shall be separated by a substantially fastened hardwood partition at least four inches thick or the equivalent. Not more than a 48-hour supply of explosives or detonators shall be stored underground in such box or magazine.

C. If explosives and detonators are kept near the face for the use of miners, they shall be kept in separate individual closed containers, in niches in the ribs, not less than 12 feet apart, and at least 50 feet from the working place and out of the line of blast. Each such container shall be constructed of substantial material and maintained electrically nonconductive. Where it is physically impracticable to comply with such distance requirements, the explosives and detonator containers shall be stored in the safest available places not less than 15 feet from any pipe, rail, conveyor, haulage road, or power line, not less than 12 feet apart, and at least 50 feet from the working face and out of the line of blast.

D. Explosives and detonators shall be kept in their containers pursuant to subsection C until immediately before use at a working face.

Code 1950, § 45-53.4; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-47; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.128; 1996, c. 774; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.