A.    Surface Mining Permits. In addition to any findings required by the county, approval of a surface mining permit for surface mining operations shall include a finding that the project complies with the provisions of SMARA and state regulations.

    B.    Reclamation Plans. For approval of reclamation plans, the planning commission shall make all of the following findings:

    1.    That the reclamation plan complies with SMARA Sections 2772 and 2773 as may be amended, the provisions of this Chapter and other applicable provisions;

    2.    That the reclamation plan complies with applicable requirements of State regulations (CCR §§ 3500-3505, and 3700-3713, as may be amended).

    3.    That the reclamation plan and potential use of reclaimed land pursuant to the plan are consistent with this chapter and the county’ s general plan and any applicable resource plan or element.

    4.    That the reclamation plan has been reviewed pursuant to CEQA and the county’ s environmental review guidelines, and all significant adverse impacts from Reclamation of the Surface Mining Operations are mitigated to the maximum extent feasible.

    5.    That the land and/or resources such as water bodies to be reclaimed will be restored to a condition that is compatible with, and blends in with, the surrounding natural environment, topography, and other resources, or that suitable off-site mitigation will compensate for related disturbance to resource values.

    6.    That the reclamation plan will restore the mined lands to a usable condition that is readily adaptable for alternative land uses consistent with the general plan and applicable resource plan, or as specified in the reclamation plan.

    7.    That a written response to the State Department of Conservation has been prepared, describing the disposition of major issues raised by that department. Where the county’ s position is at variance with the recommendations and objections raised by the State Department of Conservation, said response shall address, in detail, why specific comments and suggestions were not accepted.

    8.    That the reclamation plan is consistent with protection of the public health, safety and welfare. The planning commission shall state the basis for its determinations regarding such finding. (Ord. 99-60 (part): prior gen. code § 8-117.2)