Side by side
| Mining permit | Mining right | |
|---|---|---|
| Area | 5 hectares or less | No fixed limit |
| Term | 2 years, renewable up to 3 times for 1 year | Up to 30 years, renewable |
| Social and labour plan | Not required | Required |
| Environmental authorisation | Basic assessment | Full scoping and EIA |
What a mining right application needs
- Mining work programme and proof of technical ability.
- Proof of financial ability to mine and rehabilitate.
- Social and labour plan.
- Environmental authorisation under NEMA.
- Compliance with the Mining Charter ownership requirements.
Timelines
Mining permits usually take several months. Mining rights often take 12 to 24 months, mostly because of the environmental process and consultation.
Common questions
Can I start mining while my application is pending?
No. Mining without a granted right or permit is an offence.
Do I need the landowner's consent?
Consent is not required for the grant, but the landowner must be consulted and compensation may be payable.
Is a water use licence also needed?
Usually yes. Most mines need a water use licence under the National Water Act.
Ready to scope your application?
Consultations are free. We quote a fixed mandate fee before any work starts.
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.