Notice-Level Operations
Mining activities on public lands that cause 5 acres or less of surface disturbance, requiring a Notice filed with the BLM 15 days before operations begin.
Detailed Definition
Notice-level operations are mining activities on public lands that involve surface disturbance of 5 acres or less. The operator must file a written Notice with the appropriate BLM field office at least 15 calendar days before beginning work.
When a Notice is required: - Surface disturbance will be 5 acres or less in total - Activities go beyond casual use (more than negligible disturbance) - Mechanized equipment, explosives, or motorized vehicles will be used for mining - Operations are not in a special management area requiring a Plan of Operations
Notice requirements: - Filed at least 15 calendar days before starting operations - Includes operator contact information - Describes the type of operation - Provides a map showing the proposed activity - Describes measures to prevent unnecessary or undue degradation
BLM review process: - BLM reviews the Notice within 15 days - BLM may contact the operator with questions or concerns - BLM does not formally "approve" a Notice but may require modifications - If the BLM determines the operation requires a Plan of Operations, the operator is notified
Operator obligations under Notice: - Prevent unnecessary or undue degradation of the land - Comply with all applicable regulations - Complete reclamation of disturbed areas - Post a reclamation bond if required by the BLM - Cease operations if BLM determines a Plan of Operations is needed
- Casual use: Negligible disturbance, no filing required
- Notice: 5 acres or less, 15-day notification required
- Plan of Operations: More than 5 acres, full BLM review and approval required
Related Terms
BLM
The Bureau of Land Management, the federal agency that administers public lands including mining claim filings and maintenance.
Casual Use
Mining activities that negligibly disturb public lands and do not require a Plan of Operations or Notice.
Reclamation
The process of restoring land disturbed by mining operations to meet applicable environmental standards.
Plan of Operations
A detailed plan required by BLM for mining operations that will cause more than 5 acres of surface disturbance on public lands.