Sec. 1. (a) Subject to subsection (b), before conducting a coal exploration operation the person intending to conduct the operation must do the following:
(1) File with the director a notice of intention to explore.
(2) Demonstrate the ability to comply with the revegetation requirements of IC 14-34-10-2 concerning all land disturbed.
(b) A person may not conduct a coal exploration operation without the express written permission of the director if, under the coal exploration operation, the person:
(1) substantially disturbs the natural land surface; or
(2) removes more than two hundred fifty (250) tons of coal.