May I Explore For Minerals On State-Owed Land?
The types of mineral-related activities you may undertake with or without first receiving authorization from DSL depends on what you intend to do and where. For example, on land where DSL owns both the surface and underlying mineral rights, you may take an occasional small hand-sized sample or geologically map an area without first receiving any Department authorization. However, if you intend to dig holes or trenches, or conduct exploratory drilling, you will first need to contact the Department. In addition, if the surface of the land is owned by someone other than DSL, or under lease to another party, you may need to obtain the permission of the surface owner or lessee before proceeding. If your activity involves removal or filling materials in any “waters of the state,” whether state-owned or not, you will need to contact DSL to determine whether you require a Removal-Fill Permit or other form of authorization. You should also be aware that the exploration for, and mining of select
