Exploration permit - minerals (EPM) - Queensland

Description

You will need this permit if you intend to use advanced exploration methods to determine the quality and quantity of minerals present. This permit does not allow you to explore for coal. You can prospect, conduct geophysical surveys, drilling and testing of materials.

You may not need an environmental authority if your activities meet the criteria for a small-scale mining activity.

An exploration permit will only be issued for an area of 100 sub-blocks or less. Other size restrictions may apply in restricted areas or due to specific legislative requirements.

Service type

Licence

A licence defines the need to obtain recognition / certification and registration to undertake a certain business activity.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible you must be either:

  • a natural person at least 18 years of age
  • a registered company (including a registered foreign company).

You must also address any native title requirements and environmental authority requirements before applying.

Duration

Up to 5 years

Fees

Fees Details for this service in table format.

Task Type Business Structure Amount Description
Apply Application All -

Application fees may vary in restricted areas. Please contact the administering agency for information on fees to be submitted.

Apply Application All $1078.02

Non-restricted areas. Fees for 2024-25

Apply Licence All -

No rent fees are payable from 1 September 2023 to 31 August 2028.

Renew Renewal All $718.68

Fees for 2024-25

Vary Variation All $718.68

Extension of term. Fees for 2024-25

Application process

Apply

You can obtain this permit by completing the application form and submitting it by:

  • delivering or mailing the application to any mines office in Queensland; or
  • loading online through the MyMinesOnline System.

The following documents must be submitted with the application:

  • proposed work program of exploration and advice on how the program will be carried out
  • a statement specifying the estimated human, technical and financial resources proposed to be committed to during each year of the permit
  • statement of financial position and available technical resources
  • numbers and qualifications of professional and other staff responsible for planning, conducting and reporting for each year of the program.

Permit holders are required to have an environmental authority unless the area they are applying for is 4 sub-blocks or less. Applicants must complete an EA form and attach supporting documentation.  This form and supporting documentation must be submitted with your permit application.

Further information about applying for an exploration permit may be obtained by reading the mineral and coal exploration guidelines which can be downloaded at the department's website.

Any person interested in obtaining mining tenure is advised to contact the relevant mining registrar or department staff for further information before lodging any application.

You must lodge a financial assurance and accept terms and conditions. Compliance with the native title process is also required.

Transfer process

Transfer

This permit can be transferred.

Administering agency

Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development

Contact details

Contact Email, Phone and Address Details for this service in simple two column table format, header then data.