Questions about having a claim in WA.

[Bronze]

So I am headed out tomorrow to survey an area tomorrow (Sunday) and if things look as good as I think they are going to be, I will more than likely put a claim on it. I understand the process for the paper work but what I dont know about is what rights does it give you on that piece of land.

If I claim an area, do I have the ability to make pathways through the forest to the work area, cut trees, etc? I havent been able to find much info on this. The regulations dont cover claim ownership, Im not talking a major mining operation. This is small time stuff, just enough to turn a small profit.

Any info appreciated.

 

[mike(swWash)]

Don't be cutting any trees down but some very light brush trimming should be ok. With unpatented claims you only have the rights to the minerals but not the land and you can't develop it in any way nor stop trespassers unless they try removing minerals. Patented claims give you far more rights of ownership but should be researched before getting carried away.