Where an operator demonstrates to the lead agency that an exception to the standards specified in this Article is necessary, the Commission may approve an alternative standards for inclusion in the approved surface mining permit. Exceptions shall only be approved where the strict application of the agricultural mining and reclamation standards would deprive the operator of privileges enjoyed by other agricultural mining operators in the vicinity, due to special circumstances associated with the subject site, including size, shape, topography, location, or surroundings. Although the Commission may set alternative standards, in no case may the Commission set ay standard that does not meet or exceed the policy objectives set forth in this chapter and the standards contained in the Act. (§ 2, Ord. 1276, eff. December 6, 2001)