Introduction
The minerals industry is a vibrant part of Alberta’s economy. The Western Canada Sedimentary Basin underlying most of the province offers vast mineral wealth. The geological strata not only contain oil sands, oil, natural gas and coal deposits, but also a large variety of metallic and industrial minerals. Non-energy minerals excavated and mined in Alberta include sand and gravel, sandstone and other building stone, iron and magnetite, and gold. Salt and limestone continue to be the leading non-fuel minerals produced in Alberta. The province has more than over 40 known kinds of metallic and industrial minerals.
In 2021, Bill 82, the Mineral Resource Development Act received royal assent which will support a renewed mineral strategy and action plan that will position Alberta as a preferred producer and supplier of metallic and industrial minerals and mineral products.
In focus
Minerals are key ingredients for toothpaste, buildings, eyeglasses, computers, vehicles, hospital equipment and many other essential items.
Acts, regulations and industry information letters or bulletins for mineral development.
Permits, leasing and maintenance
Access the toolkits for mining, placer mining, prospecting and surface materials.
These are the steps involved in reporting minerals royalty.
Minerals strategy and action plan
The plan outlines a path to unlock Alberta’s untapped mineral resource potential.
Mineral surface lease applications
This system is managed by Alberta Environment and Protected Areas.
On public land, a mineral surface lease is required. Apply through the:
Legislation and guidelines
- Mineral information bulletins and letters
- Acts and regulations
- Guidelines and policies
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