Mining Projects: Conditional Use Permits and Reclamation Plans

The two principal mineral resources located in Ventura County are petroleum (oil and gas) and aggregate (principally sand and gravel). Aggregates include sand, gravel, and rock, which are used for fill, construction-grade concrete, and riprap, among others. To ensure proper reclamation of these mining sites, the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA) requires all jurisdictions in which mining occurs to adopt a reclamation ordinance and have it certified by the state mining and geology board. There are also general guidelines that are used in the development of conditions which help ensure that mining projects generate minimal negative impacts on the environment and that mineral sites will be appropriately reclaimed.

Contact Planning Counter Staff at (805) 654-2488 or via email at Plan.Counter@ventura.org for application submittal information. The Planning Counter is open 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Customers can also schedule a 15-minute appointment with Planning staff between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, using the scheduling portal.

For more information regarding SMARA, please visit the Planning Division’s SMARA web page.

For a Surface Mining Permit and Reclamation Plan Application, please contact the SMARA Coordinator, Susan Curtis, at (805) 654-2497 or Susan.Curtis@ventura.org. 

• Conditional Use Permit (Surface Mining Permit) Application

• See Sec. 8107-9.5 of the Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance Mining and Reclamation Guidelines