Guidelines

Table of contents:

• Introduction
• The Mineral Resources Act
• Lands not open for collecting
• Ask permission first
• Guidelines for the collector
• Keep your hobby safe
• Contact information

Department of Natural Resources
Registry of Mineral and Petroleum Titles

Information Circular ME 86, 5th Edition, 2026

Table of contents:

• Ownership of minerals
• Identification of mineral rights
• Prospecting and regional exploration
• Acquiring exploration licences
• Excavation and drilling
• Maintaining an exploration licence
• Filing assessment work
• Renewal and optional procedures
• Information sources

Department of Natural Resources
Geoscience and Mines Branch
Information Circular ME 085, 2026 Mineral Exploration in Nova Scotia for Landowners - Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents:

• What are mineral exploration licences and claims?
• Can I see where mineral licences are located?
• An exploration licence has been issued over my land. what happens next?
• What are my rights as a landowner?
• Can exploration occur without my consent?
• What if I have concerns or problems?
• How can I benefit from minerals exploration on my land?

Department of Natural Resources
Mineral Resources Branch
Information Circular ME 68, November 2013

The exploration phase of the mining cycle offers the earliest opportunity to begin the process of working to achieve a social license for mineral resource development. Working to make your project part of the community at the exploration stage is a wiser business decision than attempting to impose your project on a resistant community later on.

The purpose of this document is to provide guidance and resources to assist prospectors and exploration companies with community consultation. The document is not intended to be a step-by-step guide, but it does outline in general terms the government's expectations for when and how exploration companies engage with individuals and communities.

The Government of Nova Scotia is developing a new relationship with the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia, that includes greater opportunities for Mi'kmaq participation in social and economic development, and meaningful consultation with the Mi'kmaq on decisions that impact land and natural resources

Department of Natural Resources
Mineral Resources Branch
Open File Report ME 2020-002, 2020

Any licence holder receiving an exploration licence over ground indicated as a municipal water supply watershed area shall be notified concerning that part of the licence which falls within the watershed area as depicted on the Claims Reference Maps.