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Fossicking - FAQs

What is the definition of fossicking in South Australia?

Fossicking is described as the gathering of minerals as a recreation and which does not disturb the land or water by the use of machinery or explosives, and without the intention to sell the minerals or to utilise them for a commercial or industrial purpose.

 

Do I need a Miner’s Right to go fossicking?

No permit is required to fossick within South Australia. However, you must obtain prior permission from landowners before entering their property.

 

Can I sell any of the minerals I collect from fossicking?

All minerals collected through fossicking are not to be sold or utilised for any commercial or industrial purpose. They may be collected for your own personal collection.

 

Who owns the minerals in the ground?

All minerals are the property of the Crown in South Australia.

 

Can I use a metal detector to fossick?

Yes, a metal detector is acceptable as are a pick and shovel and a gold pan. No machinery operated by mechanical means is allowed.

 

Where can I get a metal detector?

There are a number of businesses listed in the Yellow Pages under "Detectors-Electronic" that sell metal detectors.

 

Where can I go to fossick?

There are a number of historical fossicking sites within South Australia which are open to the public for fossicking. For further information please refer to our brochure "Gold Deposits and Fossicking Areas in South Australia". If you wish to fossick on private property, you must obtain the landowner's permission before doing so. Details of land owners can be obtained from the Lands Titles office on telephone (08) 8226 3983.

 

Where can I get information to fossick interstate?

Each State and Territory within Australia has different rules and regulations in regards to fossicking. It is recommended that you contact the relevant State Government department.

 

Do I need the permission of an Exploration Licence holder to fossick within their Exploration Licence?

Permission is not required if you only wish to fossick. However, if you peg a mineral claim, written permission will be required from the Licence Holder prior to pegging the claim. Details of licensees, are available from the Mineral Tenements Branch, telephone (08) 8463 3103.

 

Can I fossick within a registered mineral claim, mining lease, retention lease or miscellaneous purposes licence?

Yes, but only with prior approval of the holder of the respective claim, lease or licence. You can obtain details of holders by contacting the Mineral Tenements Branch on telephone 8463 3103 and quoting the lease or claim number which is located on the posts marking the area of the lease or claim.