How much are maintenance fees for my claim every year and can I file for a small miners waiver? How and when do I pay them?

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• Maintenance fees are due on or before September 1st of every year and are $155 per 20 acre claim.

• They can be paid through BLM's payment portal here: https://payp.blm.gov/eppcore/home

• If you are considering filing under the small miners waiver, please consult a professional.

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What do I get when I purchase an unpatented mining claim?

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• You own the mineral rights, and the United States of America owns surface rights to the property. You have the exclusive rights to the minerals on the mining claim!  In Arizona, a mining claim is considered an interest in real property

 

Should I be worried about someone "claim-jumping" on my mining claim?

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• "Claim Jumping is a crime in Arizona so it is almost never intentional when it does happen Arizona Revised Statute 13-1504(A4)   A person commits criminal trespass in the first degree by knowingly: Entering unlawfully on real property that is subject to a valid mineral claim or lease with the intent to hold, work, take or explore for minerals on the claim or lease

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Can I camp on my mining claim and for how long?

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Taken from the BLM Camping Guidelines document "Dispersed Camping in Undeveloped Areas: 

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• Whether in a developed campground or at a dispersed site, you may usually camp in an area for up to 14 days before having to move at least 25 miles from your original spot. You may not return to that area for 28 consecutive days.

• Choose sites that are already established.

• Camp at least 200 feet away from water sources.

• Use existing fire rings or camp stoves.

• Check current fire conditions.

• Dispose of human waste properly (away from water and in a 6” or deeper hole).

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What kind of equipment can I use on my mining claim?

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