Searches for historical tidal works approvals

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation is the custodian of historical tidal works approvals issued in Queensland prior to 18 November 2005. To identify if there is an existing approval, use the Queensland Government’s mapping and data online interactive tool Queensland Globe to search by location.

Local governments have been responsible for issuing approvals for prescribed tidal works undertaken since 18 November 2005 and can assist with searches for later approvals.

Search for an approval

You can use a search tool on Queensland Globe to identify if there is a historical tidal works approval on record. This is a free search, and takes about 5 minutes.

  1. Open Queensland Globe and accept the Terms and Conditions. The historical tidal works layers will be displayed (centred on the Noosa area).
  2. Click Search in the top left of the screen and use the street address search or lot on plan to find the area of interest.
  3. Click on the spanner icon at the top right, click on the identify icon (first icon on the left) and check the box next to ‘select first item’. Make sure to leave that box open.
  4. Click on a permit (orange triangle) and information will display on the left-hand panel.

Refer to the frequently asked questions for more information.

If you can’t confirm an approval exists via Queensland Globe, but believe the tidal works was lawfully approved, you can request a search.

Consider contacting the relevant local government if unsure of the date of approval for tidal works.

Request copies of approvals

If the Queensland Globe search identifies a historical tidal works approval you can request a copy.

There are fees for requesting a search and for obtaining copies of approvals.

Call 13QGOV for further information.