Citizens often have questions concerning the surface mine permitting process and sometimes can find answers to those basic general questions by reading the frequently asked questions list.

1.  There is a coal mining operation adversely affecting my house, property and/or groundwater.  Who do I contact to file a complaint?

Contact the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement regional office that has jurisdiction where mining is occurring.

2.  I have read a public notice in the local newspaper in which a coal company is proposing to mine, and I believe it will adversely affect my house and/or property.  Who do I contact with my concerns, comments and/or to request a permit conference?

Write a letter of protest listing your concerns, comments and/or permit conference request to the director of the Division of Mine Permits at the address listed in the newspaper advertisement. The protest letter should reference your specific concerns related to the environment, public health and safety or legal right-to-mine issues.

All protests received during a permit application review will be considered prior to the approval of a permit to mine.  When the Division of Mine Permits receives your protest, a letter will be sent to you acknowledging receipt of the protest and requesting additional information as necessary.  A letter will also be sent to the coal company informing them of the protest and requesting a response.

The Energy and Environment Cabinet will review all the information received from you and from the coal company, along with the information contained in the permit application, to determine if the permit application is in compliance with all regulations concerning the issue or issues raised in your letter.  When a determination has been made, you will be notified in writing of the final decision to issue or deny the permit and will be given the opportunity to request a formal hearing if aggrieved by the decision.

3.  I want to know if a coal company has filed a coal mining application for an area near me.   Who do I contact?

Contact the appropriate Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement regional office or the Division of Mine Permits office in Frankfort.

4.  A coal company does not have the right to mine my land, and the permit is already issued.   What can I do?

File a written complaint with the Division of Mine Permits in Frankfort.  You will be asked to provide copies of leases, deeds or contracts to substantiate your claim.  The coal company will be given an opportunity to respond to your claim.

5.  When you have made a final determination regarding my protest, will I be informed of your decision?

Yes, a letter will notify you when the Division of Mine Permits has made a final decision.