Mineral Exploration & Mining

Low-carbon technologies demand critical minerals. However, with increased global demand, long-term shortages are predicted. British Columbia is developing a critical minerals strategy to help mitigate climate change, grow the provincial economy, and ensure resilient supply chains to partner nations.

The Survey’s mission is to provide accessible geoscience expertise, evolving knowledge, new technology and comprehensive public geoscience data to benefit land use planning and governance, societal development, low carbon innovation, economic opportunity, education services and Indigenous reconciliation in British Columbia.

Key legislation and regulations for mineral exploration and mining in B.C.

The ministry is working on a new mineral claim consultation framework with First Nations to address the findings of the 2023 B.C. Supreme Court decision. The mineral claims consultation framework (MCCF) will require consultation before any claim registration. Mineral claim registration occurs under the Mineral Tenure Act (MTA).

The Mineral Titles Branch administers the legislation governing the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral, placer mineral, and coal rights in the Province.

Exploration carried out by prospectors and companies leads to discoveries of valuable deposits.

The Province is committed to ensuring that B.C. remains a leader in mining regulation and oversight, while enhancing responsible resource development and strengthening First Nations involvement in the B.C.'s mining sector. 

Mining is one of British Columbia's safest heavy industries, and the Province is committed to ensuring that B.C. remains a world leader in mine health and safety practices.

The Mines Act regulates all mining activities in British Columbia – from early exploration to development, production, reclamation, closure, and post-closure. A permit must be in place before any work in, on, or about a mine can occur.

The Mine Audits Unit (the Audit Unit) plays a key role in supporting the continuous improvement of mining regulation and oversight in British Columbia.

The BC Mine Information website profiles metal and coal mines across the province. Authorizations issued under the Mines Act, Environmental Assessment Act and Environmental Management Act, inspection records, and recent annual reclamation and annual dam safety inspection reports are available for these mines.

Learn more about mineral exploration and mining statistics, directives, alerts, incident information, legislation, policies, reports and publications.