5.1 Written Objections to be Made. Pursuant to A.C.A. § 26-57-256(a)(6), the Director shall receive written objections to the issuance of new permits. All objections must state the nature of the relevant facts and must be received by the Director on or prior to the deadline established by the Director and published by the applicant pursuant to Section 3.1 of these Rules.

5.2 Public Hearing to be Held After Receipt of Three Objections. If the Director receives the petition of three (3) interested parties alleging that facts relevant to the issuance of the permit exists and objecting to the issuance of the permit, the Board shall conduct a public hearing to receive and consider such relevant testimony and evidence.

5.3 Applicant to Publish Notice of Hearing. In the event that a public hearing is conducted by the Board, the Director shall establish the time and date of the hearing and notify the applicant. The applicant shall then publish notice of the hearing in a newspaper of state-wide circulation. Said notice shall be placed on two occasions, seven days apart, using the form supplied by the Board. The date of the first publication shall be at least 15 days prior to the public meeting. The applicant shall provide copies of said notices, along with proof of publication, to the director prior to the scheduled meeting.