Mining
The TDEC Division of Mineral & Geologic Resources (DMGR) Mining Section is committed to protecting Tennessee citizens and the environment through robust and transparent regulatory oversight of the mineral extraction industry. The Mining Section is responsible for administering and enforcing several environmental laws related to water quality discharge permitting, aquatic resource alterations, mineral test hole drilling, and surface mining as they pertain to mineral extraction.
The TDEC-DMGR Mining Section does not have jurisdiction over such issues as blasting, noise, dust, truck traffic, damages to roads, zoning, county powers acts, property values, flooding, or property rights. Please see the Frequently Asked Questions section for information about these concerns.
Public Notices and Hearings
Find public participation opportunities including information about upcoming mining-related public hearings and meetings and notices regarding permits:
Contact the Mining Section
| Function | Contact | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Inquiries | Mining Section | (865) 594-6035 | TDEC.Mining@tn.gov |
| Permitting Inquiries | Daniel Lawrence | (865) 803-1206 | Daniel.Lawrence@tn.gov |
| Inspection Inquiries | Bonnie Craighead | (865) 223-4083 | Bonnie.Craighead@tn.gov |