Mines and Minerals Act (Cap.213).

This Act makes provision with respect to prospecting for and mining minerals in Zambia. The Act consists of 109 sections divided into 13 Parts: Preliminary (I); Mining Rights Generally (II); large Scale Mining Operations (III); Small Scale Mining Operations (IV); Variation, etc. of Licences and Permits (V); Mining Rights and Surface Rights (VI); Artisanal Mining (VII); Royalties and Charges (VIII); Environmental Protection (IX); Administration (X); Appeals (XI); Investment Incentives (XII); Miscellaneous (XIII).
Part III provides for application for, rights in relation to, grant and renewal of prospecting licences, retention licences and large scale mining licences. A retention licence confers on the holder exclusive rights to apply for a large-scale mining licence within the area for which the retention licence has been granted. In deciding on any mining right, the Minister shall take into account the need to conserve and protect the air, water and soil, flora, fauna, fish, fisheries and the features of cultural, architectural, archaeological, historical or geological interests (sect. 75). The Minister may attach conditions regarding protection of environment to the granting of a licence. There shall be an Environmental Protection Fund, which shall be managed in such manner as the Minister may be Statutory Instrument, prescribe (sect. 82).