What is a mineral deed and what rights does it provide?

A mineral deed is a legal document that conveys rights to the holder over certain minerals that are located on their property. In Washington, a mineral deed normally grants the holder the right to explore, develop, and produce oil, gas, and other minerals on the property. It also may provide the right to remove those minerals, products derived from the minerals, and the right to use surface lands to the extent necessary to carry out these activities. The exact rights granted depend on the language of the specific mineral deed, but in general the deed grants the holder the exclusive right to explore, develop, and produce any underground minerals owned by the grantor. The grantor retains title to the land and minerals and may grant the holder the right to use the surface of the land, including the right to build roads and drill wells. The holder also may be granted the right to sell or otherwise dispose of any minerals recovered from the property. Although a mineral deed grants the holder certain rights over the minerals, it does not convey any title or ownership of the minerals. The grantor still owns the minerals and the holder must respect the rights of the grantor to receive a portion of any royalties or other benefits that result from the development or production of minerals. In addition, the holder must also comply with all applicable laws and regulations related to mineral exploration and production.

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What is a mineral deed and what rights does it provide?

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