The mining and extraction of subterranean mineral deposits by means of a shaft or tunnel is subject to the following standards:
(a) Permit Requirements. Development plan approval is required:
(1) To authorize the commercial production of ore; or
(2) When the total volume of tailings produced exceeds one thousand cubic yards; or
(3) When any on-site processing of ore is proposed.
No land use permit is required for prospecting and exploration activities where the volume of tailings produced is less than one thousand cubic yards, except when a grading permit is required by Section 23.05.020 (grading), or any authorizations are required by the State Division of Mines and Geology, the Federal Mine Safety Administration, and/or California Regional Water Quality Control Board.
(b) Surface Operations. All surface operations in conjunction with an underground mine are subject to the standards for surface mining operations (Sections 23.08.180 through 23.08.187). (Ord. 2715 § 142 (part), 1995)