“Vested Right.”
For the purpose of mining and reclamation, a person shall be deemed to have such vested rights, if, prior to January 1, 1976, he or she has, in good faith and in reliance upon a permit (if such permit or other authorization was required and was in compliance with City regulations), diligently commenced surface mining operations and incurred substantial liabilities for work and materials necessary therefore. Expenses incurred in obtaining the enactment of an ordinance in relation to a particular operation or the issuance of a permit shall not be deemed liabilities for work or materials.