The first stage of the Ontario government’s new online mineral claim-staking system is now operational.
Stage one of the Mining Lands Administration System (MLAS) went live at 10 a.m. on Feb. 7. At this stage, clients can enrol in the program, set up their new client profile, and explore the features of the system.
The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines posted an update to its website on Feb. 7 outlining steps clients need to take to become part of the system.
Enrolment packages were mailed to holders of active mining claims and valid prospector’s licences weeks ago, instructing holders on how to set up their accounts, the ministry noted.
Claim holders and prospectors have just until Feb. 9 to submit a claim boundary report, which is done through the online CLAIMaps system. Final delineation of legacy claims on the provincial grid will be completed by Feb. 26.
The second stage of the system – which will mark the beginning of online mining claim registration in Ontario – will go live on April 10.
At that stage, legacy claims that have been staked via traditional methods will be converted into digital cells and the full suite of MLAS functions will become available.
Ontario’s adoption of the online claim system is part of the modernization of the Mining Act, which began in 2006.
Other provinces already using a digital system include British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Saskatchewan.
