Maintenance Fee
The annual fee paid to the BLM to maintain an unpatented mining claim, currently $200 per claim (2025).
Detailed Definition
Maintenance fees are annual payments required to keep unpatented mining claims in good standing with the Bureau of Land Management. They serve as an alternative to performing assessment work.
Current fee structure (2025): - Maintenance fee: $200 per claim/site - Location fee: $50 per new claim/site - Fees adjusted periodically based on Consumer Price Index
Payment requirements: - Due by September 1 each year - Payment applies to the upcoming assessment year - Must be received (not postmarked) by deadline - Failure to pay results in automatic forfeiture
Payment methods: - Online through BLM's Mining Claim Recordation System - Mail to appropriate BLM state office - In person at BLM offices
Small Miner Waiver: Claimants meeting these criteria may waive maintenance fees: - Hold 10 or fewer mining claims/sites nationwide - Perform required assessment work - File waiver certification by September 1 - File affidavit of assessment work by December 30
Fee revenue supports BLM's mining claim administration and land management programs.
Related Terms
BLM
The Bureau of Land Management, the federal agency that administers public lands including mining claim filings and maintenance.
Unpatented Claim
A mining claim that has not been converted to private ownership; the federal government retains title to the land.
Assessment Work
Annual labor or improvements worth at least $100 per claim, required to maintain an unpatented mining claim as an alternative to maintenance fees.