What Is a Notice of Intent (NOI) for Gold Prospecting in Arizona?

This article is general information, not legal advice. Always confirm requirements with the local ranger district or BLM field office before starting work.

What Is a Notice of Intent (NOI)?
A Notice of Intent (NOI) is a short written notice to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) that your mining activity in Arizona may cause surface disturbance. It lets the District Ranger review your plans and decide if a more detailed Plan of Operations is required.

You usually don’t need an NOI for low-disturbance activities like panning, metal detecting, hand sluicing, or drywashing with small battery-operated equipment. These methods are considered recreational and don’t cause significant ground disturbance.

If you do file an NOI, the Forest Service has 15 days to respond and let you know whether you can proceed or if a Plan of Operations is required.

How BLM Rules Differ in Arizona
On BLM-managed lands in Arizona, the NOI process does not apply. Instead, activities are grouped as:

• Casual Use: Minimal disturbance with hand tools, panning, or detecting. No Notice or Plan is required.
• Notice-Level Operations: Activities beyond casual use that disturb up to five acres. A Notice must be filed with the BLM at least 15 days before work begins.
• Plan of Operations: Required if your activity disturbs more than five acres or takes place in restricted areas.

Camping and Vehicle Use in Arizona
In Arizona’s National Forests, dispersed camping is typically limited to 14 days in a 30-day period. Rules vary by forest, so always check with the local ranger district. Vehicle use is also site-specific — in many areas you must stay on designated routes unless special authorization is given.

How to File an NOI with the Forest Service

1. Write a description of your operation — equipment, ground disturbance, and how you’ll reclaim the site.
2. Include details about camping setup and access routes.
3. Submit the notice to the District Ranger.
4. Wait for a response, usually within 15 days, to learn if a Plan of Operations is required.

Practical Tips for Arizona Prospectors

• Stick with low-impact methods whenever possible.
• Show how you’ll backfill or reclaim test holes.
• Verify camping and vehicle rules for your area.
• On BLM lands, confirm whether your work qualifies as casual use or needs a Notice or Plan.

Why It Matters for Claim Buyers
Understanding NOI requirements in Arizona helps prospectors and claim owners avoid costly delays. If you’re ready to secure your own ground, check out our Arizona gold mining claims for sale.