Surface Mining (excluding coal)

Surface Mining operations permitted by the Surface Mining Section of the Division of Water Resources are required to post financial assurance in the amount of no less than $600 per affected acre. Permit applications to the section must indicate the type of financial assurance instrument that will be used to satisfy the requirement, as well as the name of the financial institution.

View the Surface Mining Permit page for further information about the application process and to obtain the Application for Surface Mining Permit (Form CN-1097). For assistance in completing the permit application, call (865) 594-5547.

The following financial assurance mechanisms are allowed by the Surface Mining Section. Please click on the links below for the language required. The financial institution/surety should use the language in the files to issue an original instrument on the institution's letterhead or in its standard instrument format.

• Irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit
  • Guidance Document for Use of Letter of Credit
• Performance Bond
  • Guidance Document for Use of Performance Bond
• Certificates of Deposit

The Surface Mining program also allows the use of cash/certified check to satisfy the financial responsibility requirement.

Note: The instrument language is provided here as a convenience. Please consult with your legal counsel and the TDEC Division of Financial Assurance & Business Process Improvement before submitting a financial instrument.