Abstract: To improve the underground mining methods for small-scale limestone mine，and combining with the actual condition of 22 underground limestone mines in Xinluo mining area，the factors for affecting the selection of the underground mining methods for limestone mine are analyzed. Based on the current situation of small underground limestone mine and its existing problems in Xinluo mining area，how to improve the mining methods for small-scale limestone mines is investigated. It is concluded that it is the best choice to take one step mining without pillar recovery，and the mining-out area must be avoided or supported with artificial pillars. The shrinkage method instead of the room-pillar method，will improve the recovery rate from 30% to 40%~55% for small underground limestone mines.

Key words: Limestone mine, Mining methods, Treatment of mined-out area, Mining rate