Is it legal to pan for gold?

Question

Is it legal to pan for gold?

Answer 1

I wouldn't see why not , finders keepers!

Answer 2

On some arbitrary western US stream? So long as you aren't trespassing, it is probably fine except it is hard to find a square meter that isn't owned by someone . It probably would also be a huge waste of time.

Save your self the trouble and go bother people on street corners for pennies, it is far more rewarding and less dirty.

Answer 3

Yes, it is legal if you have the property owner's permission.  Of course, the property owner has the right to ask for a share of the gold.

I do not know what the rules are if you want to pan on public property.

Answer 4

im not really sure, i would think so though.

Answer 5

Yes it is unless its on private property

Answer 6

Technically, all natural resources belong to the state. Even if it is a private property, the owner cannot mine it unless he has a mining lease. Panning is technically mining and you cannot do that.

But practically, nobody cares about the small quantity of gold a panner recovers and hence you can do it, unless it is a private property.

This is generally true for most of the countries. It can vary as per the Law of the Land in case of certain countries.

Answer 7

Sure it is legal, but don't expect to get rich.  Go for it it might be fun.

Answer 8

Yup, unless someone else has already staked a claim where you're panning, or someone else owns the mineral rights.

Answer 9

yes.. if you are not trespassing

Answer 10

I think it's OK.