Are planning and/or environmental permits required for mining leases?
A mining project requires planning and environmental approval. Where the annual disturbance is less than 5000 cubic metres for sand or stone and 1000 tonnes for metallic mines, the operation is classified as a Level 1 operation and planning and environmental approval is managed by local government authorities. Above that level, environmental approval is managed by Environment Tasmania and an operator will be required to prepare a Development Proposal and Environmental Management Plan which outlines the manner in which the operator will meet environmental standards. Mining leases are granted subject to the holder gaining planning and environmental approvals. Mineral Resources Tasmania works closely with Environment Tasmania and local government to ensure that all necessary approvals are obtained prior to commencement of mining activities.
