(a) Persons conducting mining operations on the effective date of these regulations, who would be required to submit a plan of operations under §3802.1-1 of this title, may continue operations but shall, within 60 days after the effective date of these regulations, submit a plan of operations. Upon a showing of good cause, the authorized officer shall grant an extension of time to submit a plan of operations not to exceed an additional 180 days.

(b) Operations may continue according to the submitted plan of operations during its review unless the operator is notified otherwise by the authorized officer.

(c) Upon approval of a plan of operations, mining operations shall be conducted in accordance with the approved plan.