The Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (DRMS) has announced the start of a rulemaking process to update regulations for Tourist Mine Rules, specifically within the Mine Safety Training Program (MSTP). The main goal of this update is to revise existing rules related to Tourist Mine Conveyance systems, commonly referred to as elevators. The proposed changes clarify that regulatory oversight for these conveyance systems belongs to the Colorado Division of Oil and Public Safety (OPS), which operates under the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
According to DRMS, “The Rules also clarify that conveyances located in Tourist Mines must receive a valid certificate of operation issued by OPS. In addition, the proposed rule revises areas of the existing Rules that need correction, general updating, or to reflect current practice and procedure of the MSTP. Substantive amendments include increased Tourist Mine Operator inspections and reporting, documentation of Tourist Mine conditions and requirements for Mine Operators to maintain documentation, requirements for communications systems, clarifying MSTPs enforcement process and procedure, and to clarify that Tourist Mines cannot also operate as an active mine extracting or producing materials.”
Those interested in participating in the rulemaking process can find more information on how to become a party by visiting the DRMS rules and regulations section on their website.
The agency will hold a hybrid stakeholder meeting—both virtual and in-person—on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 9 a.m., located at 1313 Sherman St., Room 318 in Denver. Details about joining virtually will be posted on the DRMS website. Additionally, a formal virtual-only rulemaking hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. A Zoom link will be sent out to parties involved and posted online. Written comments from the public are also being accepted prior to the hearing; submission details are available through DRMS’ website.
