Description
Recognition of the status of natural mineral water as well as the therapeutic properties of natural mineral waters for use as spa waters is carried out by the Ministry of Health.
Natural mineral waters are distinguished from ordinary drinking water by their original purity and preservation, by their content of minerals, trace elements or other constituents and, possibly, by certain of their effects. (Legislative Decree of 8 October 2011, no. 176, Art. 2 para. 2 )
Characteristics of mineral waters:
- must flow from an underground water table
- be microbiologically pure and free of traces of pollutants
- may have health-promoting properties
- be bottled close to the source
Research permits
A mining research permit (regulated by Provincial Law no. 14 of 11 December 2020) is required for the exploration of a specific portion of territory for the identification of a deposit of first class mineral substances, without compromising or damaging the environment and territory.
The exploration permit for natural mineral deposits includes:
(a) the geological and hydrogeological study of the area of interest, including through the use of geognostic soundings and drillings, as well as the sampling of the water found in the quantity necessary for the analyses referred to in subparagraph (b)
(b) the analyses and investigations necessary to ascertain the physical, chemical and bacteriological characteristics of the mineral waters, aimed at their recognition
c) any other study aimed at ascertaining the delimitation of the resource's supply basin, the possible forms of use and any environmental protection requirements.
The research permit is issued by the Province and is valid for no more than three years, without prejudice to an extension of a further year to complete the research.