1. (1) Except for additions and modifications required to protect natural resources and environmental quality, the Division of State Lands Mineral Prospecting Permit form as adopted August 15, 1977, will be issued upon approval of a prospecting permit application. Prospecting Permits shall expire three years from date of issuance.

2. (2) In the event that a discovery is not obtained during the initial term of an exploration permit, the Division may agree to renew for an additional three year term provided:

   1. (a) An exploration operations budget equal to or exceeding nine times the annual permit fee is submitted by the permittee together with an exploration plan approved by the State Geologist; or
   2. (b) Applicant has commenced actual drilling prior to the expiration date of the initial term and agrees to continue with due diligence to reach a promising geologic structure; and
   3. (c) Upon payment of a renewal annual permit fee of $5 per acre.
3. (3) Mineral Prospecting Permits allow exclusive use of the mineral estate (not exclusive as to the surface) but are not to be construed as a possessory right.

Statutory/Other Authority

ORS 273

Statutes/Other Implemented

ORS 273.780 - 273.790

History

LB 44, f. & ef. 8-16-77