Fossicking is not permitted in National Parks or Conservation Parks, or on State Forests and Timber Reserves except where specifically agreed to in advance by the Department of Natural Resources and Mines. It is also not permitted on areas where there has been a determination that native title exists, unless there is an Indigenous Land Use Agreement for the land that permits fossicking. To fossick a person needs to be the holder of a current Fossickers Licence. An exception to this applies in cases where a fee is paid for entry onto a mining claim or mining lease, such as at tourist mines, or where other arrangements have been made with mining tenure holders. Licences are available for individuals, families, clubs, educational organisations, and commercial tour operators for terms varying from 1 month to 12 months.
Fees vary accordingly.
Licences are normally valid for the whole of the State, although in some cases they may be issued for local areas only. Licences are available from the district offices of the Department of Natural Resources and Mines and local agents including Local Governments and businesses. A Fossickers Licence entitles entry and fossicking on any non-exempt land throughout the State, with the written permission of any land owner or mining tenure holder. These may include lessees of State land, trustees of Reserves and holders of mining leases, mining claims and any extraction permits under the Forestry Act or Water Resources Act. If more than one owner or holder is involved, all must give permission.