Fossicking Licences in Queensland
In the state of Queensland, you need a Fossicking Licence to search for
minerals such as gemstones or gold. You are only allowed to use hand
tools such as picks, shovels, sieves etc. The use of metal detectors is also covered
by the licence.
Check out the rules
Department of Natural Resources and Mines
In order to conduct your hobby of fossicking legally, you will need a
fossicking licence. Also you will require the
permission of the property owner (grazing lease holder).
He should endorse the licence and can impose conditions. He is within
his rights to refuse entry to his grazing lease. The signing of the
fossicking licence is actually a good thing for both parties as it
covers the grazing leaseholder for public liability.
You will need a separate licence for each state in Australia.
Coins and relics are not minerals so you don't need a fossicking licence
to detect for them (public lands such as beaches etc.). Make sure you have permission if
detecting on private land. Local council may also have some by laws
covering parks.
Get yourself a fossicking
licence anyway. Do not detect historic heritage listed sites.
Nth Qld Miners Den issue fossicking licences over the counter. On-line
application is not available at present.
You can download and print the Fossicking Licence Application Form
Print Fossicking Licence
Application
Application Form
PDF 32kb
Mail or fax it with payment to us and we will mail you your licence.
Please make payment to Nth Qld Miner's Den, PO Box 7429, Cairns Qld 4870
Fax 07 4031 2056
Please include self addressed and stamped envelope.