Frequently Asked Questions

1. When can I apply for an extension? What are the fees?
2. When making out a cheque for services or products, to whom do I make the cheque payable to?
3. After staking, how many days do I have to submit my application to record?
4. What does it cost to record a mining claim?
5. Do I get all of the minerals when I stake and record my claim?
6. How do I apply for a prospector's license?
7. What is the process for bringing a claim to lease?
   

1. When can I apply for an extension? What are the fees?

An application can be made within 30 days before the time for filing the work report expires. The fee is $13.50 per claim. An application for extension of time can only be accepted if assessment work requirements are filed and approved for the second assessment year of the claim, and the work requirements under any previous extension of time have been met. (Refer to Policy GA 901-1 and Section 73 of the Mining Act).

2. When making out a cheque for services or products, to whom do I make the cheque payable to?

All cheques must be made payable to Minister of Finance.

3. After staking, how many days do I have to submit my application to record?

Pursuant to section 44(1), a licensee who staked out a mining claim shall, not later than 31 days after the day on which the staking out was completed, make an application to record the claim to the recorder for the mining division in which the claim has been staked out.

4. What does it cost to record a mining claim?

The fee depends on the number of units staked. Refer to Policy GA 301-9 "Minister's Required Fees" The required fee is under item #4.

5. Do I get all of the minerals when I stake and record my claim?

"Minerals", as defined in the Mining Act R.S.O. 1990, means all naturally occurring metallic and non-metallic minerals, including natural gas, petroleum, coal, salt, quarry and pit material, gold silver and all rare and precious minerals and metals, but does not include sand, gravel and peat.

6.(A) How do I apply for a prospector's license?

Complete and sign the form "Application for a Prospector's License" (Form # 0220). The completed form can be mailed, sent by courier, faxed or brought to the Provincial Recording Office. Include a copy of your identification proving your age (must be at least 18 years of age), and include payment (refer to fees).  For more information on what identification is acceptable, refer to Policy UC 101-1 "Prospector's License: Types of Identification Acceptable"

6. (B) Do I have to pass a test?

No, there is no need to pass a test. The only requirement to obtain a prospector's license is that the person be 18 years of age or older.

6. (C) Do I have to be a resident of Ontario or Canada?

No, but if you hold claims, you must provide an Ontario address for service.

6. (D) Do I need a prospector's license if I only want to do gold panning or collect a few mineral samples or fossils?

No. But there are specific rules about mineral collecting as a hobby. Please refer to Policy LP 701-1.

7. What is the process for bringing a claim to lease?

Refer to the document How to Lease Mining Claims in Ontario