Small Scale Mining Permits Forms

Small Scale Mining Authorization (Letter Permit)

• 2025 IDWR Small Scale Mining Program Instructions – Requirements for January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025
• 2025 Idaho Small Scale Mining Authorization (Letter Permit) – Permit authorizing an individual to alter a stream channel by small scale mining excluding the South Fork Clearwater River and McCoy Creek Drainage. 
  
  • South Fork Clearwater River (SFCR) Special Supplement

    SFCR Special Supplement applications must be complete and received by IDWR by March 01, 2025, to be considered. A complete application must include ALL supporting documentation, maps, fees, and applicant’s signature.

    For mining activity on the South Fork Clearwater River, use:

    • 2025 IDWR South Fork Clearwater River Special Supplement – Application for consideration to operate a power sluice and/or a small suction dredge on the South Fork Clearwater River
    • Example Maps and Diagrams for Supplement Applications

  • McCoy Creek Drainage (South Fork Snake River Basin)

    Joint Applications for dredging activity within the McCoy Creek drainage for the 2025 season will only be accepted by IDWR from April 1, 2025 – July 1, 2025. Applications received after July 1, 2025, will not be considered. Refer to page 20 of the 2025 IDWR Recreational Mining Program Instructions for further information about McCoy Creek drainage.

    For mining activity on McCoy Creek, use:

    • Joint Application for Stream Channel Alteration Permit

  • Mores Creek, Grimes Creek, Elk Creek, and Tributaries (within the Boise River Basin)

    For mining activity on Mores Creek, Grimes Creek, Elk Creek, and tributaries, use:

    • 2025 IDWR Mores Creek, Grimes Creek, Elk Creek, and Tributaries Letter Permit Supplement Instructions & Form – Application for consideration to operate a power sluice and/or a small suction dredge on Mores Creek, Grimes Creek, Elk Creek, and tributaries