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The Regulation Branch regulates mining in Nevada under the authority of the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS)445A.300-NRS 445A.730 and the Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) 445A.350-NAC 445A.447.
The branch issues a Water Pollution Control Permit (WPCP) to an operator prior to the construction of any mining, milling or other beneficiation process activity that uses water from any source or quality that is biologically, chemically or physically altered because of this use. The need for a WPC permit is not dependent on whether or not a discharge is intended.
More About Mining Regulations: Facilities utilizing hazardous chemicals for processing ores are generally required to meet a zero discharge performance standard. A separate permit may be issued for certain activities at a specific facility, or a permit may be issued for all activities at a facility. A WPC permit does not apply to facilities involved solely in the mining and processing of sand and gravel, cinders, diatomaceous earth, slate, shale, gypsum, clay or crushed stone. All local, state and federal laws and regulations must be complied with, including reporting requirements and permit requirements for activities that are not regulated by the WPC permit; e.g., air emissions.
A WPC permit application should be submitted at least 180 days prior to the construction date of any component of a mining operation. It takes approximately 180 days to obtain a WPC permit. This time frame includes the public notice and a 30 day public review and comment period. A WPC permit is valid for a duration of 5 years, provided the operator remains in compliance with the regulations.
A permit renewal is required to continue the mining operations beyond 5 years. Monitoring is required by the permit on a process and site-specific basis and reporting is required quarterly. Fees associated with the WPC permit include application, annual and renewal fees as specified in the Fee Schedule.
Prior to submitting a WPC permit application, the prospective applicant must meet with division representatives to discuss location, operating plans and general characteristics of the facility. The application, in addition to basic ownership and facility information, must include meteorological information, a complete description of the proposed activity and the production rate in tons of ore per year.
The application must be accompanied by required supporting documents on the design, construction, operation and closure of operations. Documentation of notice to the local board of county commissioners is also required.
Issuance of a WPC permit does not relieve the operator of the responsibility to secure the approval of any other State, Federal or county agencies.
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