Section 88.494. Performance standards—in situ processing of anthracite coal

(a) In situ processing means those activities on the surface or underground which involve in-place processing and removal of the coal or coal by-products.

(b) The Department will not issue a permit to initiate or conduct underground burning of anthracite coal.

(c) In situ processing of anthracite coal is limited to:

(1) The collection of methane and natural gas by means of boreholes and wells and the drilling, stimulation and construction of boreholes and wells used for that purpose. These activities shall meet the requirements of the Oil and Gas Act (58 P. S. § § 601.101—601.605).

(2) Demonstration or innovative operations permitted by the Department. The activities shall meet the requirements of this chapter, Chapter 86 (relating to surface and underground coal mining: general) and additional standards for environmental protection and safety as requested by the Department.

(3) In situ operations that might be approved and permitted by the Department.

(d) Activities approved by the Department shall comply with applicable hydrologic balance and water pollution control standards of this chapter.

The provisions of this § 88.494 adopted December 19, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 4789, effective July 31, 1982, 12 Pa.B. 2382; amended June 15, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 3383, effective July 27, 1991, 21 Pa.B. 3316. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (148888).