EXPLORATION AND MINING EXPLOITATION; SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT

ONE OF THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY THOSE STARTING MINING OPERATIONS IS: “CAN I BEGIN EXPLORATION, PROSPECTING, AND/OR EXPLOITATION WORK, AS APPLICABLE?”

To begin work, the respective authorizations from the corresponding State Administrative Institutions must be obtained:

1. - Notify SERNAGEOMIN (National Geology and Mining Service) in writing at least 15 days in advance of the start or resumption of work. 2. Submit the mining method or any major modifications for approval. 3. Submit a draft Closure Plan in accordance with regulations.

2. - Regarding the ENVIRONMENT, the following must be requested from the ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT SERVICE: Any extraction or processing of one or more mineral deposits with a mineral extraction capacity exceeding five thousand tons per month (5,000 t/month) must be submitted for an Environmental Impact Statement.

3. - Projects or activities will require the preparation of an Environmental Impact Study if they generate or present at least one of the adverse effects, characteristics, or circumstances that cause negative impacts on the environment and that are described in the law.

4. - In other cases where there is doubt, an "ENVIRONMENTAL RELEVANCE" must be submitted. This is an official document that provides "legal certainty" in the face of possible complaints or inspections.

Starting mining operations?

Navigating SERNAGEOMIN permits and SEA requirements demands legal certainty. Don't risk your investment due to regulatory errors or administrative delays.

Schedule a consultation with our team and ensure the legal viability of your project.