Energy, Mines and Resources
Minerals
Mining in Yukon
Major Mine Licensing
A major hard rock mining project in Yukon, engaging in development and/or production, requires a detailed environmental and socio-economic assessment combined with various regulatory approvals. These approvals include, but are not limited to a Water License and a Quartz Mining License.
There are two distinct stages that a project must go through before mining activity can commence. First, an assessment determines whether significant adverse environmental or socio-economic effects are likely to occur. Second, a regulatory licensing approval process needs to take place.
Yukon currently has three producing mines. These three projects are licensed under both the Quartz Mining Act 
578 KB and the Waters Act 250 KB. Seven additional projects are in various stages ranging from undergoing an environmental assessment, pre-production and development, temporary closure and closure.
A number of additional projects are presently in the advanced exploration and pre-feasibility study phase. However, these projects are not included on this web page as, to date, a project description and an application for a Quartz Mining License has not been filed by the respective companies and received by the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources.
Current project information, along with respective licenses, approvals, reports, submissions etc. pursuant to the Quartz Mining Act 578 KB can be found on the specific mine sites listed in the right hand menu.
For information on Application for Quartz Mining License consult the Quartz Mining License Application Guide , How to obtain a Quartz Mining License - YESAB Executive Committee Screening Process 450 KB and
How to obtain a Quartz Mining License - YESAB Designated Office Evaluation Process 420 KB
Copies of Water Licenses are available at the Yukon Water Board. Also available on the Water Board site's Policies section are various guidelines including: Licensing Guidelines for Quartz Mining Undertakings 6.52 MB.
Guidelines and practices relating to Yukon water use can be obtained from the Resource section of Yukonwater.ca Specific documents of interest include: Dam Guide: Design Expectations and Required Information and Best Management Practices for Works Affecting Water in Yukon 4.03 MB.
In the past, environmental assessments were undertaken by the Yukon Government, Development Assessment Branch.
As of November 28, 2005, Yukon assessments are conducted by the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board.
For more on Abandoned Mines in Yukon, visit the Assessment and Abandoned Mines website.
