Global Mineral Rights Guide

Knowing there is gold in the ground is 20% of the battle. The other 80% is knowing who owns the right to extract it. Mineral rights are a complex, multi-layered legal framework that varies wildly by jurisdiction. This guide explains how the official record systems work in each of the regions Paystreak covers.

1. United States (The General Mining Act of 1872)

In the US, most public land prospecting is governed by the 1872 Mining Act. You will encounter two primary claim types in our Data Dashboards:

• Lode Claims: These follow a "vein" or "ledge" of gold-bearing rock through the earth. Usually 1500ft by 600ft.
• Placer Claims: These cover alluvium (river gravels) and surface deposits. Usually 20 acres per individual.

2. Australia (State-Based Tenure)

Unlike the US, Australian mineral rights are managed at the State level (VIC, WA, QLD, etc.).

• Exploration Licenses (EL): Large areas held by companies for bulk testing. Generally off-limits without consent.
• Prospecting Licenses (PL): Smaller areas often held by individuals for metal detecting.
• Fossicking Districts: Designated "Safe Zones" (common in NSW and QLD) where hobbyists can operate freely.

3. New Zealand (CMA 1991)

NZ gold is managed under the Crown Minerals Act. The "Gold Fossicking Areas" you see on our NZ map are unique because they allow extraction without the need for a permit or royalties, provided you use hand tools only.