Fossicking in state forests

Fossicking is a traditional recreational activity that has been carried in State forests in NSW for many years.

The Mining Act 1992 says that recreational fossicking is allowed but only with the consent of the land owner or management agency.

Who administers fossicking in NSW State forests?

Fossicking in State forests is administered by Forests NSW. People wishing to fossick on State forest must obtain permission from the local Forests NSW office (see phone numbers at the bottom of the page). No fossicking is permitted in Forests NSW’ flora reserves or forest preserves in State forests.

What fossicking techniques are allowed?

Only a limited range of fossicking techniques can be undertaken in State forests. No explosives, equipment or machinery operated by mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical power can be used.

How do I protect the environment when I fossick?

Be aware that when fossicking for minerals on State forest you must not:

excavate, undercut or damage the bank of any watercourse
interfere with the flow of water in any watercourse
cause pollution of any watercourse
disturb mud or clay or fine silt so as to cause significant turbidity in any watercourse
drill or excavate a hole larger than 1 metre x 1 metre
damage or take any bush rock.

How much can I take?

Fossicking is also limited to taking no more than the following amounts during any single period of 48 hours: 25kg of minerals (other than gold or gems) or: 50 grams of gold; or 100 grams of gemstones.

How should I leave a fossicking site?

The site of any fossicking must be left in a clean and tidy condition. You must replace any soil, rock or other material that has been disturbed in the course of fossicking for materials before making any further excavations.