About
Lode and Placer Mining Claims
Southwest Mining and Mineral sells lode and placer mining claims, mostly in Utah with some in Nevada. Every claim is explored and assayed before it is listed, so you know what you are buying.
Please note: All Claims sold are for Mineral Rights only, you do not own the land.
Buying a claim: common questions
What am I buying?
An unpatented mining claim gives you the right to explore for, mine and sell the minerals on that ground. The land itself stays public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). You own the mineral rights, not the land.
What's the difference between lode and placer?
A lode claim covers minerals in solid rock, such as a vein or ore body, and can be up to 1,500 × 600 feet (about 20.66 acres). A placer claim covers loose deposits like gold in gravel or sand, usually 20 acres per person.
Are there yearly fees?
Yes. The BLM charges a yearly maintenance fee, due by September 1. For the 2026 assessment year it is $200 per lode claim, and $200 per 20 acres for placer claims. People who hold 10 or fewer claims may qualify for the small miner waiver instead. See BLM fees.
How does the transfer work?
The claim is transferred with a quitclaim deed recorded at the county recorder's office. A transfer of interest is then filed with the BLM state office so the BLM has you on record as the new owner.
Can I live or build on the claim?
Not as a right. Living on or building on a claim is only allowed when it is tied to actual mining work. Anything beyond light prospecting needs a Notice or Plan of Operations filed with the BLM.
How can I check a claim is real and current?
Every claim has a BLM serial number. You can look it up in the BLM's Mineral & Land Records System (MLRS) to see its status and fee history. Ask Bryan for the serial number of any claim you're interested in.
General information only, not legal advice. Fees and rules are set by the BLM and can change.