Disposition Code
A BLM status code indicating the current state of a mining claim, such as active, closed, or void.
Detailed Definition
A disposition code is a status indicator used by the Bureau of Land Management in its records systems (LR2000/MLRS) to show the current state of a mining claim or other land action.
- A: Active -- claim is in good standing, all requirements met
- C: Closed -- claim is no longer active (abandoned, forfeited, relinquished, or patented)
- V: Void -- claim was declared invalid (located on withdrawn lands, no valid discovery, etc.)
Additional disposition indicators: - Status may include subcodes or notes explaining the reason for closure - Historical records may show the date of disposition change - Multiple disposition changes may be recorded over a claim's lifecycle
Interpreting disposition codes: - An "A" (Active) disposition means the claim is currently maintained and in good standing - A "C" (Closed) disposition requires further investigation to determine the reason for closure (abandonment, forfeiture, patent, relinquishment, etc.) - A "V" (Void) disposition indicates the claim was never valid or was declared invalid
Research significance: Disposition codes are critical for claim research and due diligence: - Quickly identify which claims in an area are currently active - Determine the history of closed or void claims - Assess whether formerly claimed ground is now open to new location - Track the lifecycle of claims over time
Understanding disposition codes is essential for interpreting BLM records and conducting effective claims research.
Related Terms
BLM
The Bureau of Land Management, the federal agency that administers public lands including mining claim filings and maintenance.
BLM Serial Number
A unique identifier assigned by the BLM to each mining claim upon recording, used to track claims in the federal records system.
Case Type Code
A BLM classification code that identifies the type of mining claim or mineral entry in the federal records system.
Void Claim
A mining claim that has been declared invalid by the BLM or a court, typically due to a fundamental defect in location or maintenance.
Active Claim
A mining claim that is currently in good standing with the BLM, with all maintenance fees paid and filing requirements met.
Closed Claim
A mining claim that is no longer active, having been abandoned, forfeited, voided, or patented.