Mineral Rights
/ˈmɪnərəl raɪts/
Definitions
- (n.) Legal rights to explore, extract, and sell minerals beneath a property surface.
The landowner sold the mineral rights separately from the surface rights.
- (n.) The ownership interest in minerals beneath real property, which can be severed from surface estate ownership.
Mineral rights holders can lease the minerals to mining companies regardless of surface ownership.
Forms
- mineral right
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Mineral rights may be separated from surface rights, often creating distinct estates; clear drafting should specify which rights are conveyed or retained.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.