A mineral deed transfers all ownership rights in the assets under the surface of a tract of land—including oil, gas, coal, hydrocarbons, metals, and minerals—from the grantor (seller) to the grantee (buyer). The transfer also includes all rights to receive royalties, profits, or payments related to the assets under the surface of the land.
In Missouri, a mineral deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of minerals and other subsurface assets from the grantor to the grantee. This includes not only the physical minerals but also the rights to any royalties, profits, or payments derived from the extraction and sale of these minerals. The deed must be in writing, signed by the grantor, and must contain a legal description of the property. It should also specify exactly what minerals or rights are being conveyed. Once executed, the mineral deed should be filed and recorded with the Recorder of Deeds in the Missouri county where the property is located to put the public on notice of the transfer. It's important to note that Missouri follows the Dormant Mineral Act, which allows for the termination of mineral interests if they are not used for a certain period of time, typically 20 years. An attorney can provide specific guidance on drafting a mineral deed to ensure it complies with Missouri law and fully protects the interests of the parties involved.