Hard Rock Mining Application Requirements
The 3 subdivisions under Hard Rock:
- Small Miners Exclusion Statement
- Exploration Licenses
- Operating Permits
Ideally a mining operation in Montana starts out applying for an Exploration License, which is usually for drill holes and trenches to assess the viability of the mining site. Once it is determined that the site is viable, the operator applies for an SMES (Small Miner Exclusion Statement), which is for 5 acres or less of total surface disturbance. All operations exceeding 5 acres of total surface disturbance, must apply for a General Operating Permit. If an operator wishes to mine multiple quarry sites, they need to apply for a Multiple Quarry Permit.
Other Hard Rock & Placer Mining Requirements:
- Small Miner (SMES) Leaching Permits
- Other Important Rules: Hard Rock/Placer Mining & Ore Processing
- Other Permits/Certificates That May Be Required
- Mining Claims and Assessment work on Federal Lands
- Exploration & Mining on State-Owned (School Trust) Lands
