Did You Know?
Construction of an average modern home requires 400 tons of aggregates (15-20 ... More »
FAQs
Who has authority for regulation, the State DEQ or local governments?
The State DEQ and local governments need clear lines of authority for regulation regarding land use. The rights and authority to impose conditions on and restrict gravel operations need to be clearly defined. Currently, the State DEQ has jurisdiction over environmental quality, permitting processes and compliance oversight. Local governments have jurisdiction over zoning and land use planning and can place additional restrictions on operations. It is imperative that these roles ... More »
Oversite
Contrary to popular belief, Montana provides tight permitting procedures and regulatory oversight for sand and gravel operations at both state and local levels.
- Montana open cut mining laws regulate sand and gravel operations (MCA Title 82-Ch 4) and require guidelines for reclamation procedures (ARM Title 17-Ch 24).
- Gravel operations are subject to the Montana Environmental Policy Act, which requires Montana Department of Environmental Quality to conduct environmental assessments on every proposed operation. The MDEQ also issues permits for all gravel operations which specify "conditions" under which they operate.
- Local governments approve and oversee zoning and land use regulations that often result in additional “conditions” on gravel operations.
BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR
In addition to governmental regulatory oversight, the MCA has developed a Good Neighbor Policy that addresses the concerns most often expressed by local residents. We’re proud that our member companies have been partners in building better communities throughout the state by adopting a Good Neighbor Policy that deals with:
- Dust
- Noise
- Visual impacts
- Traffic safety
- Hours of operation
- Weed management
- Notices to neighboring residents
To download the entire Good Neighbor policy, please visit the Downloads page.