Mineral Land Regulation & Reclamation

Frequently Asked Questions about Surface Mining

(last updated 05/13/2022)

1. A mine is being proposed near my home, what can I do?
2. I already have a permit, but I want to amend it. What is the process?
3. I have a question about exclusion certificates.
4. How do I find out if mining is allowed on my property?
5. My property/home/well is being impacted by blasting at a mine.
6. How do I find out if a mining operation is permitted?
7. Are there rules for hours of operation and noise?
8. I can?t find the answers to my questions on your site.

A mine is being proposed near my home, what can I do?

The siting of a mine is done at the local land-use level (DOGAMI does not have that authority). This is typically the county, unless the proposed site is located within the city limits. You can contact your local county planning department for more information on their process.

I already have a permit, but I want to amend it. What is the process?

Contact MLRR ( email mlrr.info@dogami.oregon.gov or call 541-967-2083) to discuss your plans. If necessary, a meeting will be scheduled to go over the details of your plan and to assist you with the amendment process. If you are proposing to add additional acreage to your existing permit, land-use authorization for the addition will be required.

When you are ready to proceed, an application and fee are required; and additionally, an operating and reclamation plan and maps may be required, as well as other information; see the Surface Mining page for application forms and fees.An MLRR reclamationist will determine what additional materials are required. The amount of your reclamation security may need to be increased.

Most amendments will need to be circulated to other agencies for their review and comment before the amended permit can be issued.

I have a question about exclusion certificates

Read the Exclusion Certificate FAQ

How do I find out if mining is allowed on my property?

Check with the local land-use authority, typically the county planning department, to find out the zoning for your property.

My property/home/well is being impacted by blasting at a mine.

Contact the reclamationist for your county by emailing mlrr.info@oregon.gov or calling us (541-967-2083).

How do I find out if a mining operation is permitted?

Check the Permit data spreadsheet on this site. It can be sorted by county, permittee name, etc. The list includes sites that are currently permitted as well as those that are closed. Our program began in the early 1970s, so sites that were mined prior to that may not be included in our records.You can also call the MLRR office 541-967-2083 with the legal description (Section, Township, Range, and County) and we can look it up in our database.

Are there rules for hours of operation and noise?

Typically these are regulated by local ordinances or may be conditions of an operator?s Conditional-Use Permit, issued most commonly by the county.

I can't find the answers to my questions on your site.

Please email (mlrr.info@oregon.gov) or call us (541-967-2039). Our goal is to make this site as helpful as possible. Your feedback is important and appreciated.