17-81-401. Vested mining use -- Conclusive presumption.
(1) A mining use is conclusively presumed to be a vested mining use if the mining use existed or was conducted or otherwise engaged in before a political subdivision prohibits, restricts, or otherwise limits the mining use. Anyone claiming that a vested mining use has not been established has the burden of proof to show by clear and convincing evidence that the vested mining use has not been established.
(2) A vested mining use: runs with the land; and may be changed to another mining use without losing its status as a vested mining use.
(3) The present or future boundary described in the large mine permit of a mine operator with a vested mining use does not limit: the scope of the mine operator's rights under this chapter; or the protection that this chapter provides for a mining protection area.
(4) A mine operator with a vested mining use shall file a declaration for recording in the office of the recorder of the county in which the vested mining use is located. A declaration under Subsectionshall: (4)(a) contain a legal description of the land included within the vested mining use; and provide notice of the vested mining use.