EPA Makes Environmental Permit Mandatory for Mine Reclamation and Land Restoration Works

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has mandated persons and companies involved in reclamation and restoration activities to obtain an Environmental Permit before commencing work.

The Authority announced the directive under Regulation 40 of the Environmental Protection (Environmental Assessment) Regulations, 2025, L.I. 2504.

This applies to mining companies, contractors, landowners, developers, investors and any stakeholder carrying out work on disturbed lands or water bodies.

The EPA, in a press release, explained that the permit requirement covers mine reclamation and rehabilitation, restoration of degraded lands, and the rehabilitation of abandoned mining sites.

It also extends to backfilling and reshaping of excavated areas, re-vegetation and ecological restoration projects, as well as dredging and restoration of water bodies.

Any activity intended to restore or reclaim disturbed land or aquatic ecosystems must also secure approval from the Authority.

The Authority is urging full compliance, warning that failure to obtain the permit will attract sanctions under L.I. 2504.

The EPA said the measure is aimed at strengthening oversight of post-mining and restoration work to protect the country’s land and water resources from further degradation.

For guidance and permit application procedures, stakeholders have been advised to contact the nearest EPA Regional Office or reach the Authority through its official communication channels.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/