Lode Claim
A mining claim for minerals found in veins, lodes, or rock in place, such as gold, silver, or copper deposits.
Detailed Definition
A lode claim is a type of mining claim used for minerals that occur in veins, lodes, or rock in place. These are typically hard rock deposits where minerals are embedded within the surrounding rock formation.
Key characteristics of lode claims: - Maximum size: 1,500 feet along the vein by 600 feet wide (approximately 20.66 acres) - Used for precious metals (gold, silver), base metals (copper, lead, zinc), and other valuable minerals - Requires discovery of a valuable mineral deposit within rock in place - Must follow the strike (direction) of the vein or lode
Lode claims require proper monumentation, posting of location notices, and filing with both the BLM and local county recorder.
Related Terms
Mining Claim
A parcel of land for which a claimant has asserted a right of possession and the right to develop and extract mineral resources.
Placer Claim
A mining claim for minerals found in loose, unconsolidated deposits such as gravel, sand, or alluvium.
Claim Staking
The physical and legal process of establishing a mining claim, including monumentation, posting notices, and filing with authorities.
Mill Site
A type of mining claim for non-mineral land used to support mining operations, limited to 5 acres.
Tunnel Site
A subsurface right-of-way for accessing lode claims or exploring for undiscovered mineral deposits, up to 3,000 feet in length.
Apex
The top or highest point of a vein or lode where it comes closest to the surface, legally significant for extralateral rights.
Extralateral Rights
The right of a lode claim owner to follow a vein beyond the vertical side lines of the claim, provided the apex of the vein lies within the claim.