About
What you should do
How long does it take
How much does it cost
Forms to complete
Who to contact
About applying for a mining right
You need permission from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to mine minerals within a certain area. This is granted by way of a mining right.
A mining right may not exceed a period of 30 years.
A mining right is granted if:
- the mineral can be mined optimally
- you have the funds and expertise to conduct the proposed mining operation optimally
- the financing plan is compatible with the intended mining operation and for the duration thereof
- no unacceptable pollution or damage to the environment will occur as a result of the mining operation
- you have made financial and other provisions for the prescribed social and labour plan
- you are not contravening the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act 28 of 2002) (MPRDA)
- the operation is in line with the Mining Charter.
What you should do
- Apply online.
- Apply for environmental authorisation at the same time.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee.
- If the system accepts the application, you will be notified. You must then notify and consult all interested and affected parties within 180 days from the date of the notice.
- If your application meets all the requirements, the regional manager will notify you in writing within 14 days of receipt of the application if it has been accepted. The regional manager will instruct you to consult with the landowner, the occupier of the land and all other affected parties.
- If the application is not successful the regional manager will return the application to you within 14 days.
- If the Minister refuses to grant a mining right, you will be informed in writing, within 30 days, stating the reasons for the refusal.
Contact the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy for the costs.
Applications should be submitted online.
