Legal and administrative issues in underground space use: a preliminary survey of ITA member nations

Abstract At the request of the Executive Committee of the International Tunnelling Association (ITA), the Working Group on Subsurface Planning of the ITA undertook a questionnaire survey of ITA member countries to examine legal and administrative issues relating to ownership of subsurface and restrictions on its development. Nineteen responses were received from mailings to thirty-five ITA member countries. This report summarizes these responses as they pertain to the following issues: Limits of Surface Property Ownership; Restrictions on Natural and Mineral Resource Exploitation; Ownership and the Right to Develop Subsurface Space; Major Permits Required; Application of Surface Land Use Regulations; Environmental Controls; and Restrictions due to Surface and Subsurface Structures. An ITA policy statement on subsurface planning also is included.