(1) An operator may apply for an amendment to its permit by submitting an amendment application to the department.  Upon receipt of an amendment application and within the time limits provided in 82-4-432(4) , MCA, the department shall, if it determines that site inspection is necessary to adequately evaluate the application, inspect the proposed site and evaluate the application to determine if the requirements of the Act and this subchapter will be satisfied.  If the department determines that a site inspection is necessary and it is unable to evaluate an application because weather or other field conditions prevent an adequate site inspection, the department shall disapprove the application.

(2) The department shall approve an amendment application if it determines that:

(a) the application contains a completed copy of the amendment application form provided by the department, additional bond if necessary, a new landowner consent form if required under ARM 17.24.206(1) , a new zoning compliance form if required under ARM 17.24.223, and plan of operation revisions, if necessary; and

(b) the application and plan of operation revisions satisfy the requirements of the Act and this subchapter.

(3) An amendment does not become operative until approved by the department.  Once approved, an amendment becomes part of the original permit.

(4) An amendment application does not require the payment of an additional fee.