82-2-221. Eminent domain for open-pit mining -- purchase of property required. (1) (a) Subject to subsection (1)(b), when the right of eminent domain is exercised pursuant to Title 70, chapter 30, to acquire estates and rights in land for the purpose of open-pit mining of the ores, metals, or minerals owned by the condemnor, the decree must be granted on the condition that the condemnor protects the public in the immediate area by agreeing to purchase all property within 300 yards of the surface tract condemned, including vacant lots.

(b) In order to fall within the protection provided by subsection (1)(a), the owner of land within 300 yards of the surface tract condemned shall serve upon the condemnor and file with the court a written offer stating the amount asked for the property within 30 days from the entry of the court order appointing commissioners in the eminent domain proceeding.

(2) If the condemnor and an owner are unable to agree upon the compensation to be paid for the property, the court, upon petition of either party, may proceed to determine the compensation to be paid for property in the manner prescribed in Title 70, chapters 30 and 31, for ascertaining the value of property taken through the exercise of the right of eminent domain.