Mining Permitting

Mining Permitting

We have significant experience permitting small mining operations in Arizona, Idaho and California on both BLM and USFS Land. Mining regulation and permitting is an extensive process. We’ve learned some best practices over the years and want provide service to help other miners. Below are the most common permits for mining on BLM and USFS public lands. Contact us for pricing information.

BLM and USFS Permits

BLM Notice of Operations: The simplest permit of them all! This permit allows for surface disturbance of 5 acres or less or 1000 tons of excavation or less. The BLM is several timeframe requirement in which they must process this application. A well written application can be approved in as little as 6 weeks.

BLM Plan of Operations: Needed for any operation which disturbs more than 5 acres or greater than 1000 tons of earth. The BLM or other third party completes an Environmental Analysis or Environmental Impact Statement. The process take a minimum of 1 year, 3-5 years is common.

USFS Notice of Operations: The requirements for this permit is based on “significant disturbance” as determined the the USFS field office District Ranger. This permit is needed for exploration or mining activities which use heavy equipment.

USDS Plan of Operations: Needed for any mining operation which scales above exploration. The BLM or other third party completes an Environmental Analysis or Environmental Impact Statement. The process take a minimum of 1 year, 3-5 years is common.