Crown Lands

Using Crown land

Learn about Crown land and the different ways you can use and enjoy it

People walking on bushwalk, Dungog Common NSW. Credit: NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure / Shannon Richmond

Using Crown land

If you're interested in using Crown land, here are a few things you need to know:

Permits, leases and licenses: Depending on the activity, you may need a permit, lease or licence to use Crown land. This ensures the land is used responsibly and sustainably.

Respect the land: Always respect the natural environment and follow any guidelines or regulations. This helps protect the land for future generations.

Crown Lands is addressing regional housing shortages by using Crown land for residential development. The goal is to provide social, affordable, and market housing in high-demand areas, working with various agencies and Aboriginal Land Councils.

Fossicking is searching for and collecting minerals, gemstones, or mineral-bearing material with hand-held tools. It is a popular recreational activity in NSW. Fossicking on Crown land is allowed under certain conditions and must follow the guidelines.

Some areas of Crown land are used for mining and exploration. These activities are regulated to make sure they are done responsibly and sustainably. Explorers and mining companies need a licence to explore for minerals.

Oyster farming on Crown land involves using small, scarce sites in sensitive estuarine environments. Leases and licences are issued under the Crown Land Management Act 2016 for land-based activities.

You can do many fun activities on Crown land, like hiking, camping, fishing, and bird watching. Many areas are open to the public and are great for connecting with nature.

The NSW Government is committed to supporting renewable energy projects on Crown land to help secure a sustainable and reliable energy future for our communities. As part of this initiative, Crown land offers vast opportunities for innovative energy solutions that benefit both local economies and the environment.

Travelling stock reserves are areas of Crown land where livestock can move, rest, or graze. These reserves are important for the grazing industry and can also be used for conservation and recreation.

Beekeeping permit (apiary sites)

Beekeeping on Crown land in NSW is a regulated activity that requires a permit. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) administer permits on behalf of Crown Lands. For more information, go to Beekeeping on Crown Lands in NSW.

Important information: Due to recent legislative changes, Crown Lands cannot currently accept applications for ministerial consent to keep bees on Crown land. A new process is being developed, and updates will be available soon.