Time when obtaining of permit and payment of fees required.

1. The operator of each exploration project or mining operation which is active on October 1, 1990, shall obtain the permit required by NRS 519A.180 or 519A.200 , as applicable, and pay the fees required by NAC 519A.225 : (a) On or before October 1, 1993; or (b) Before abandonment of the exploration project or mining operation, Ê whichever occurs first. 2. The operator of each exploration project and mining operation which becomes active after October 1, 1990, shall obtain the permit required by NRS 519A.180 or 519A.200 , as applicable, and pay the fees required by NAC 519A.225 before engaging in exploration or mining.