The exploration for, and extraction of, quarry materials is regulated by the Quarry Materials Act and Regulations.
New quarry legislation was approved in 2023, but has not yet been enacted. The new Act, developed following consultation with stakeholders, Indigenous Governments and Organizations and the public, will replace the Quarry Materials Act, 1998. The new Quarry Resources Act:
- Redefines quarry resources to clarify the distinction between minerals and quarry resources, while adding dimension stone and gemstone to the definition and removing peat;
- Creates a new tenure system for quarries by creating a two-year, non-renewable wayside permit and two classes of leases for longer-term operations;
- Requires holders of exploration licences, wayside permits and leases to rehabilitate a site in accordance with the rehabilitation standards prescribed in the regulations;
- Enhances the compliance monitoring and enforcement of quarry operations; and
- Establishes quarry resource management areas to enhance short- and long-term management of quarry resources.
You can review the new Quarry Resources Act here.
Act & Regulations
Policies
- Matters the Minister May Consider When Issuing a Quarry Instrument Policy
- Outlines the matters the Minister may consider when determining whether a quarry permit will be issued
- Companies must be registered and in good standing with Companies and Deeds Online (CADO)
- The applicant’s status of compliance with this Act will be considered before issuing a quarry instrument (in instances where a permit or lease has been issued).
- Matters the Minister May Consider When Issuing a Quarry Instrument Policy