In South Africa, the validity period of a mining permit depends on the type of permit. There are two main types of mining permits: prospecting permits and mining permits.
- Prospecting permits are valid for five years and may be renewed for an additional three years. These permits allow the holder to survey or investigate an area of land for the purpose of identifying an actual or probable mineral deposit.
- Mining permits are valid for the period specified on the permit, but may not exceed a period of two years. They may, however, be renewed for three more periods of no more than one year each. These permits allow the holder to conduct small-scale mining operations of all minerals.
For both types of permits, the validity period commences on the date of issue of the permit.
To apply for a mining permit or prospecting permit, you must lodge the application online via the South African Mineral Resources Administration System (SAMRAD). You must also submit an application for environmental authorisation simultaneously.