Notwithstanding Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 43151) of Part 22 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, at the request of any party contesting any fee imposed pursuant to this chapter or Part 2 (commencing with Section 78000) of Division 45, the department may hold an informal conference to attempt to settle the dispute. Upon the payment of any sum agreed upon between the contesting party and the department in settlement of the disputed fee liability, the liable person shall be released from any further liability for payment of the disputed fee.