The main rights and permits
| Right | Purpose | Maximum initial term |
|---|---|---|
| Reconnaissance permit | Desktop and aerial surveys | 2 years |
| Prospecting right | Exploration | 5 years, renewable once for 3 |
| Mining permit | Small-scale mining up to 5 hectares | 2 years, renewable |
| Mining right | Full-scale mining | Up to 30 years, renewable |
Registration
A granted right must be executed and registered at the Mineral and Petroleum Titles Registration Office. Unregistered rights create risk for financing and later transfers.
Transfers and cessions
Transferring a right, or a controlling interest in a company holding one, needs the Minister's consent under Section 11 of the MPRDA.
Common questions
Do I own the minerals on my farm?
No. The State is the custodian. You can apply for a right, but so can others.
Can mineral rights be sold?
Yes, with the Minister's written consent under Section 11 of the MPRDA.
Where are mineral rights registered?
At the Mineral and Petroleum Titles Registration Office.
Need to secure or transfer a right?
Tell us about the property and the mineral, and we quote a fixed fee upfront.
Related guides
Last updated September 2026. This guide is general information on South African regulatory procedure and is not legal advice on your specific matter. Dynamic Legal Services (Pty) Ltd is a private legal advisory firm and is not a government department or regulator.