Mining Permits
A person must obtain a mining permit if they are removing coal or noncoal minerals (including topsoil) for commercial use (sale/trade/financial gain). Mining permits are reviewed and issued from the respective District Mining Office for where the site is located.
Application forms can be found on DEP’s eLibrary under the Permit and Authorization Packages – Mining Programs.
All applications can be submitted through the OnBase digital upload.
Where indicated, the Greenport ePermitting option should be used.
Coal Permitting
The following Chapters of Title 25 Environmental Protection of the Pennsylvania Code provide the regulatory basis for surface and underground coal mining and reclamation in Pennsylvania:
Noncoal Permitting
The following Chapters of Title 25 Environmental Protection of the Pennsylvania Code provide the regulatory basis for surface and underground noncoal mining and reclamation in Pennsylvania:
Noncoal permit exemptions:
A permit for noncoal mineral extraction is not needed in the following circumstances: building construction activities; or noncommercial use of material by landowner/lessee. Please check with the District Mining Offices for questions about permitting issues. See the following Technical Guidance Documents (TGDs):
NPDES
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits are required for activities that generate earth disturbance of one acre or greater. NPDES permits associated with mining permits are issued in conjunction with the mining permit from the District Mining Office.
Mining License
A person who intends to mine coal or noncoal minerals must obtain a mine operator’s license from the Department.
Fees
Application fees and administrative fees are updated via the Fees Associated with Mining Activities webpage.
Additional Information
A Citizen’s Guide to the Mining Permit Application Process
Noncoal Frequently Asked Questions
Email: RA-epminingpermits@pa.gov