Collection Limits - Free Rock, Mineral & Semi-Precious Gemstones

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT

Arizona



BLM > Arizona > What We Do > Recreation > Rockhounding > Collection Limits - Free Rock, Mineral & Semi-Precious Gemstones

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Collection Limits -
Free Rock, Mineral & Semi-Precious Gemstones

Rocks, minerals and semiprecious gemstones may be collected on public lands managed by the BLM without charge or permit as long as:

1. The specimens are for personal use and are not collected for commercial purposes or bartered to commercial dealers.
2. You may collect reasonable amounts of specimens. In Arizona, BLM sets the "reasonable" limits for personal use as up to 25 pounds per day, plus one piece, with a total limit of 250 pounds per year. These limits are for mineral specimens, common invertebrate fossils, semiprecious gemstones, other rock, and petrified wood.

Rockhounding Information

3. A group of people does not pool their yearly allotment to collect a piece larger than 250 pounds of either rockhounding specimens or petrified wood.
4. Collection does not occur in developed recreation sites or areas, unless designated as a rockhounding area by BLM.
5. Collection is not prohibited or restricted and posted.
6. Collection, excavation or removal are not aided with motorized or mechanical devices, including heavy equipment or explosives. Metal detectors are acceptable, with the exception of the San Pedro National Conservation Area.
7. No undue or unnecessary degradation of the public lands occurs during the removal of rock, minerals, or gemstones.
8. For pieces of petrified wood heavier than 250 pounds or situation not covered here, please contact your local BLM office.
9. If you wish to obtain more than 250 lbs. of rock in a year, please visit the local BLM office to arrange to purchase it.