This regulation replaces the 2017 Recreation Areas Management rules and sets out how Queensland recreation areas are to be managed: it lists and maps areas, prescribes certain recreational craft, and sets rules for animals, plants, camping tags, vehicle and drone use, waste, prohibited conduct, fees, permits and electronic record‑keeping. Visitors, permit‑holders and commercial operators must follow permit conditions, display tags, keep records and pay fees; the chief executive decides approvals, exemptions, waivers and refunds (see ss.18, 24, 53–66).
This regulation, titled the Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2024, sets out detailed operational rules, permit-related obligations, fee settings and compliance mechanisms for recreation areas under the parent Act. It commenced on 22 September 2024 (s 2) and repeals the Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2017 (s 67). The regulation does not create the statutory head of power; instead it prescribes how many of the Act’s powers and duties are to operate in practice. Mechanically the regulation:
identifies prescribed recreational craft for the Act’s schedule (s 4);
lists existing recreation areas and refers to plans (s 5) and continues declared and amalgamated recreation areas with stated management intent (s 6, schedule 1);
prescribes circumstances for bringing animals and plants into recreation areas and a prohibition on taking plants for fires except in set circumstances (ss 7-9);
creates campsite and vehicle tag regimes, requiring conspicuous display, specific information and criminalises tampering (ss 10-12, 26-32);
regulates motor vehicle use including licensing, registration status, number-plate legibility, approvals for conditionally-registered vehicles, speed and behaviour rules by reference to Queensland Road Rules and the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (ss 13-25, 18-20);
prohibits or restricts drone operation in defined drone-restriction areas and camping areas with narrow exceptions (s 33);
sets standards for litter, waste, fires, glass and animal-waste disposal in particular areas (ss 34-39);
prescribes permitted uses of compressors, generators and storage of weapons and similar devices (ss 40-41);
restricts solicitation and distribution of notices without the chief executive’s written approval (ss 42-43);
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2024.
97
pt.1
Introduction
Introduction
pt.1-div.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1
Short title
sec.1 Short title
This regulation may be cited as the Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2024 .
sec.2
Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This regulation commences on 22 September 2024.
pt.1-div.2
Interpretation
Interpretation
sec.3
Definitions
sec.3 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 5 defines particular words used in this regulation.
sec.4
Prescribed recreational craft—Act, schedule
sec.4 Prescribed recreational craft—Act, schedule
For the Act , schedule, definition recreational craft , the following wheeled devices are prescribed—
a kite buggy;
a land windsurfing board;
a land yacht.
(a) a kite buggy;
(b) a land windsurfing board;
(c) a land yacht.
pt.2
Recreation areas
Recreation areas
sec.5
Existing recreation areas— Act , s 235
sec.5 Existing recreation areas— Act , s 235
Each existing recreation area is described in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 2 opposite the name of the area stated in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 1.
A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
A reference to another plan in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan registered in the land registry under the Land Act 1994 .
In this section—
existing recreation area means an area of land mentioned in section 235 of the Act that continues to be a recreation area under the Act .
(sec.5-ssec.1) Each existing recreation area is described in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 2 opposite the name of the area stated in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 1.
(sec.5-ssec.2) A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
(sec.5-ssec.3) A reference to another plan in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan registered in the land registry under the Land Act 1994 .
(sec.5-ssec.4) In this section— existing recreation area means an area of land mentioned in section 235 of the Act that continues to be a recreation area under the Act .
sec.6
Continuing declared and amalgamated recreation areas— Act , ss 7 and 8
sec.6 Continuing declared and amalgamated recreation areas— Act , ss 7 and 8
For section 7 of the Act , each area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2 continues to be declared to be a recreation area.
A recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2—
has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 1 opposite the description; and
has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 3 opposite the description.
For section 8 of the Act , the area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2 continues to be an amalgamated recreation area.
An amalgamated recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2—
has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 1 opposite the description; and
has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 3 opposite the description.
A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 2 or 3 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
(sec.6-ssec.1) For section 7 of the Act , each area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2 continues to be declared to be a recreation area.
(sec.6-ssec.2) A recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2— has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 1 opposite the description; and has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 3 opposite the description.
(sec.6-ssec.3) For section 8 of the Act , the area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2 continues to be an amalgamated recreation area.
(sec.6-ssec.4) An amalgamated recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2— has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 1 opposite the description; and has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 3 opposite the description.
(sec.6-ssec.5) A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 2 or 3 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
(a) has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 1 opposite the description; and
(b) has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 3 opposite the description.
(a) has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 1 opposite the description; and
(b) has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 3 opposite the description.
pt.3
Animals and plants
Animals and plants
sec.7
Taking animals into recreation areas— Act , s 121
sec.7 Taking animals into recreation areas— Act , s 121
For section 121 (2) of the Act , definition animal , paragraph (d) , this section prescribes ways of taking animals into a recreation area.
A person may take a domesticated animal into a recreation area if—
the animal is on a vessel and remains on the vessel; and
the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark.
Also, a person may take a domesticated dog into the Moreton Island Recreation Area if—
the person is transporting the dog through the area to or from the person’s land; and
the only reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; and
the person is taking the dog through the most direct route to or from the land; and
the dog is being transported—
in an enclosed vehicle; or
on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
the dog does not leave the vehicle or vehicle tray while the dog is in the area.
In this section—
land , of a person, means land that is owned by the person or is the person’s principal place of residence.
(sec.7-ssec.1) For section 121 (2) of the Act , definition animal , paragraph (d) , this section prescribes ways of taking animals into a recreation area.
(sec.7-ssec.2) A person may take a domesticated animal into a recreation area if— the animal is on a vessel and remains on the vessel; and the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark.
(sec.7-ssec.3) Also, a person may take a domesticated dog into the Moreton Island Recreation Area if— the person is transporting the dog through the area to or from the person’s land; and the only reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; and the person is taking the dog through the most direct route to or from the land; and the dog is being transported— in an enclosed vehicle; or on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and the dog does not leave the vehicle or vehicle tray while the dog is in the area.
(sec.7-ssec.4) In this section— land , of a person, means land that is owned by the person or is the person’s principal place of residence.
(a) the animal is on a vessel and remains on the vessel; and
(b) the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark.
(a) the person is transporting the dog through the area to or from the person’s land; and
(b) the only reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; and
(c) the person is taking the dog through the most direct route to or from the land; and
(d) the dog is being transported— (i) in an enclosed vehicle; or (ii) on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
(i) in an enclosed vehicle; or
(ii) on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
(e) the dog does not leave the vehicle or vehicle tray while the dog is in the area.
(i) in an enclosed vehicle; or
(ii) on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
sec.8
Taking plants into recreation areas— Act , s 123
sec.8 Taking plants into recreation areas— Act , s 123
For section 123 (1) (b) (iv) of the Act , a person may take a plant into a recreation area if—
the plant is for consumption by an animal lawfully brought into the area; or
the plant remains securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft while the plant is in the area; or
the person—
is taking the plant to land outside the area; and
the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and
the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and
if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and
if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
Without limiting subsection (1) (b) or (c) (iv) , a plant is securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft if it is kept in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft in a way that ensures that no part of the plant is spread or released into a recreation area, including, for example, by keeping the plant covered at all times in the cabin of the vehicle, vessel or aircraft.
(sec.8-ssec.1) For section 123 (1) (b) (iv) of the Act , a person may take a plant into a recreation area if— the plant is for consumption by an animal lawfully brought into the area; or the plant remains securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft while the plant is in the area; or the person— is taking the plant to land outside the area; and the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
(sec.8-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) (b) or (c) (iv) , a plant is securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft if it is kept in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft in a way that ensures that no part of the plant is spread or released into a recreation area, including, for example, by keeping the plant covered at all times in the cabin of the vehicle, vessel or aircraft.
(a) the plant is for consumption by an animal lawfully brought into the area; or
(b) the plant remains securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft while the plant is in the area; or
(c) the person— (i) is taking the plant to land outside the area; and (ii) the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and (iii) the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and (iv) if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and (v) if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
(i) is taking the plant to land outside the area; and
(ii) the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and
(iii) the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and
(iv) if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and
(v) if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
(i) is taking the plant to land outside the area; and
(ii) the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and
(iii) the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and
(iv) if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and
(v) if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
sec.9
Plants not to be taken or used for fires
sec.9 Plants not to be taken or used for fires
A person must not take or use a plant from a recreation area to light, keep or use a fire in the area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply to a plant—
that the chief executive has provided in a recreation area to use for a fire; or
that is taken into a recreation area to use for a fire in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive, a permit or a regulatory notice.
In this section—
plant includes—
timber or a dead plant; and
part of a plant.
(sec.9-ssec.1) A person must not take or use a plant from a recreation area to light, keep or use a fire in the area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.9-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to a plant— that the chief executive has provided in a recreation area to use for a fire; or that is taken into a recreation area to use for a fire in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive, a permit or a regulatory notice.
(sec.9-ssec.3) In this section— plant includes— timber or a dead plant; and part of a plant.
(a) that the chief executive has provided in a recreation area to use for a fire; or
(b) that is taken into a recreation area to use for a fire in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive, a permit or a regulatory notice.
(a) timber or a dead plant; and
(b) part of a plant.
pt.4
Camping
Camping
sec.10
Displaying camping tags
sec.10 Displaying camping tags
A person camping under a camping permit must, immediately after the person starts camping, display the camping tag for the permit by attaching it in a conspicuous position to—
a tent, caravan or another structure being used for camping under the permit; or
if no tent, caravan or structure is being used for camping under the permit—a vehicle, vessel or equipment being used for camping under the permit.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
The person must take reasonable steps to ensure the camping tag remains displayed at the camp site where the person is camping while the person is camping under the permit.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.10-ssec.1) A person camping under a camping permit must, immediately after the person starts camping, display the camping tag for the permit by attaching it in a conspicuous position to— a tent, caravan or another structure being used for camping under the permit; or if no tent, caravan or structure is being used for camping under the permit—a vehicle, vessel or equipment being used for camping under the permit. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.10-ssec.2) The person must take reasonable steps to ensure the camping tag remains displayed at the camp site where the person is camping while the person is camping under the permit. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(a) a tent, caravan or another structure being used for camping under the permit; or
(b) if no tent, caravan or structure is being used for camping under the permit—a vehicle, vessel or equipment being used for camping under the permit.
sec.11
Displaying details on camping tags in e-permit camping areas
sec.11 Displaying details on camping tags in e-permit camping areas
This section applies in relation to an e-permit camping area.
The holder of a camping permit for an e-permit camping area must ensure the following details are displayed on the camping tag being used for camping under the permit—
the holder’s name;
the number identifying the permit;
the e-camping area to which the permit relates;
the arrival date and departure date stated on the permit;
the total number of persons authorised to camp under the permit;
if the person is using a vehicle in the area—the vehicle’s number plate.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
Subsection (2) does not apply to a holder of a camping permit if—
the holder prints on paper a camping tag for the permit provided electronically to the person by the chief executive; and
the camping tag displays all the details provided electronically by the chief executive.
In this section—
number plate , for a vehicle, means the number plate registered for the vehicle under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 .
(sec.11-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to an e-permit camping area.
(sec.11-ssec.2) The holder of a camping permit for an e-permit camping area must ensure the following details are displayed on the camping tag being used for camping under the permit— the holder’s name; the number identifying the permit; the e-camping area to which the permit relates; the arrival date and departure date stated on the permit; the total number of persons authorised to camp under the permit; if the person is using a vehicle in the area—the vehicle’s number plate. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.11-ssec.3) Subsection (2) does not apply to a holder of a camping permit if— the holder prints on paper a camping tag for the permit provided electronically to the person by the chief executive; and the camping tag displays all the details provided electronically by the chief executive.
(sec.11-ssec.4) In this section— number plate , for a vehicle, means the number plate registered for the vehicle under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 .
(a) the holder’s name;
(b) the number identifying the permit;
(c) the e-camping area to which the permit relates;
(d) the arrival date and departure date stated on the permit;
(e) the total number of persons authorised to camp under the permit;
(f) if the person is using a vehicle in the area—the vehicle’s number plate.
(a) the holder prints on paper a camping tag for the permit provided electronically to the person by the chief executive; and
(b) the camping tag displays all the details provided electronically by the chief executive.
sec.12
Tampering with camping tags
sec.12 Tampering with camping tags
A person must not tamper with a camping tag displayed on a tent, caravan, structure, vehicle, vessel or other equipment being used for camping in a recreation area, unless the person has a reasonable excuse.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
In this section—
tamper with , a camping tag, means—
remove, damage or destroy the tag; or
change anything written on the tag.
(sec.12-ssec.1) A person must not tamper with a camping tag displayed on a tent, caravan, structure, vehicle, vessel or other equipment being used for camping in a recreation area, unless the person has a reasonable excuse. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.12-ssec.2) In this section— tamper with , a camping tag, means— remove, damage or destroy the tag; or change anything written on the tag.
(a) remove, damage or destroy the tag; or
(b) change anything written on the tag.
pt.5
Vehicles, vessels and other craft
Vehicles, vessels and other craft
pt.5-div.1
Exemptions for motor vehicles
Exemptions for motor vehicles
sec.13
Exemptions for using motor vehicles in particular recreation areas— Act , s 109
sec.13 Exemptions for using motor vehicles in particular recreation areas— Act , s 109
For section 109 (2) (b) of the Act , the recreation areas and parts of recreation areas stated in schedule 2 , section 3 are prescribed.
sec.14
Exemptions for using government vehicles— Act , s 109
sec.14 Exemptions for using government vehicles— Act , s 109
For section 109 (2) (c) of the Act , a government vehicle is prescribed.
In this section—
government vehicle means a motor vehicle—
that is registered to a registered operator that is a local government or an entity of the State or the Commonwealth; and
that is used for official purposes by the entity mentioned in paragraph (a) .
registered operator , of a motor vehicle, means the person in whose name the vehicle is registered under a vehicle registration Act.
(sec.14-ssec.1) For section 109 (2) (c) of the Act , a government vehicle is prescribed.
(sec.14-ssec.2) In this section— government vehicle means a motor vehicle— that is registered to a registered operator that is a local government or an entity of the State or the Commonwealth; and that is used for official purposes by the entity mentioned in paragraph (a) . registered operator , of a motor vehicle, means the person in whose name the vehicle is registered under a vehicle registration Act.
(a) that is registered to a registered operator that is a local government or an entity of the State or the Commonwealth; and
(b) that is used for official purposes by the entity mentioned in paragraph (a) .
pt.5-div.2
Restrictions on use
Restrictions on use
sec.15
Licensing requirement for driving or riding vehicles
sec.15 Licensing requirement for driving or riding vehicles
A person must not drive or ride a vehicle in a recreation area unless the person holds the required licence to drive or ride the vehicle.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
In this section—
required licence , to drive or ride a vehicle, means a licence required under a vehicle registration Act to drive or ride the vehicle on a road.
(sec.15-ssec.1) A person must not drive or ride a vehicle in a recreation area unless the person holds the required licence to drive or ride the vehicle. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.15-ssec.2) In this section— required licence , to drive or ride a vehicle, means a licence required under a vehicle registration Act to drive or ride the vehicle on a road.
sec.16
Restrictions on unregistered vehicles
sec.16 Restrictions on unregistered vehicles
A person must not bring an unregistered vehicle into, or drive or ride an unregistered vehicle in, a recreation area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply to a person bringing an unregistered vehicle into a recreation area if the person—
brings the vehicle into the area under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or
has a reasonable excuse.
In this section—
bring , an unregistered vehicle into a recreation area, does not include drive or ride the vehicle into the area.
unregistered vehicle means a vehicle that—
is required to be registered under a vehicle registration Act to lawfully operate the vehicle on a road; and
has not been registered under a vehicle registration Act.
(sec.16-ssec.1) A person must not bring an unregistered vehicle into, or drive or ride an unregistered vehicle in, a recreation area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.16-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to a person bringing an unregistered vehicle into a recreation area if the person— brings the vehicle into the area under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or has a reasonable excuse.
(sec.16-ssec.3) In this section— bring , an unregistered vehicle into a recreation area, does not include drive or ride the vehicle into the area. unregistered vehicle means a vehicle that— is required to be registered under a vehicle registration Act to lawfully operate the vehicle on a road; and has not been registered under a vehicle registration Act.
(a) brings the vehicle into the area under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or
(b) has a reasonable excuse.
(a) is required to be registered under a vehicle registration Act to lawfully operate the vehicle on a road; and
(b) has not been registered under a vehicle registration Act.
sec.17
Number plate identification requirements for vehicles
sec.17 Number plate identification requirements for vehicles
A person must not drive or ride a vehicle in a recreation area if—
a required number plate for the vehicle is not attached to the vehicle; or
any writing that identifies the vehicle on a required number plate for the vehicle is not clearly legible.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
A person does not commit an offence against subsection (1) if the person has a reasonable excuse.
In this section—
required number plate , for a vehicle, means a number plate required to be attached to the vehicle under a vehicle registration Act to operate the vehicle on a road.
(sec.17-ssec.1) A person must not drive or ride a vehicle in a recreation area if— a required number plate for the vehicle is not attached to the vehicle; or any writing that identifies the vehicle on a required number plate for the vehicle is not clearly legible. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.17-ssec.2) A person does not commit an offence against subsection (1) if the person has a reasonable excuse.
(sec.17-ssec.3) In this section— required number plate , for a vehicle, means a number plate required to be attached to the vehicle under a vehicle registration Act to operate the vehicle on a road.
(a) a required number plate for the vehicle is not attached to the vehicle; or
(b) any writing that identifies the vehicle on a required number plate for the vehicle is not clearly legible.
sec.18
Approval requirement for driving or riding conditionally registered vehicles
sec.18 Approval requirement for driving or riding conditionally registered vehicles
A person must not drive or ride a conditionally registered vehicle in a recreation area without the written approval of the chief executive.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
The chief executive may give an approval mentioned in subsection (1) to a person only if the chief executive considers the conditionally registered vehicle to which the approval applies is to be used—
by the person for any of the following purposes in a recreation area—
for an emergency or rescue activity;
for enforcing a law of the State;
for the management of the area;
for a commercial purpose authorised under the Act ;
for supporting an organised event conducted under an organised event permit;
for providing a service to users of the area;
for the sole purpose of going directly through the Moreton Island Recreation area to or from land outside the area if—
the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and
the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or
by the person because they are suffering from a permanent condition that is significantly restricting their mobility.
However, the chief executive must not give an approval for a purpose mentioned in subsection (2) (a) (iv) to (vii) or (2) (b) if the chief executive considers the use of the conditionally registered vehicle to which the approval applies would be likely to—
cause unreasonable damage to a cultural resource of the area; or
have a significant adverse effect on a natural resource of the area; or
pose a serious risk to the health or safety of the public in the area.
For applying subsection (2) (b) , the chief executive may ask a person to give the chief executive a medical certificate or other document issued by a doctor to verify the nature of the person’s condition.
In this section—
conditionally registered vehicle means a vehicle that is conditionally registered under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management—Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2021 .
(sec.18-ssec.1) A person must not drive or ride a conditionally registered vehicle in a recreation area without the written approval of the chief executive. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.18-ssec.2) The chief executive may give an approval mentioned in subsection (1) to a person only if the chief executive considers the conditionally registered vehicle to which the approval applies is to be used— by the person for any of the following purposes in a recreation area— for an emergency or rescue activity; for enforcing a law of the State; for the management of the area; for a commercial purpose authorised under the Act ; for supporting an organised event conducted under an organised event permit; for providing a service to users of the area; for the sole purpose of going directly through the Moreton Island Recreation area to or from land outside the area if— the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or by the person because they are suffering from a permanent condition that is significantly restricting their mobility.
(sec.18-ssec.3) However, the chief executive must not give an approval for a purpose mentioned in subsection (2) (a) (iv) to (vii) or (2) (b) if the chief executive considers the use of the conditionally registered vehicle to which the approval applies would be likely to— cause unreasonable damage to a cultural resource of the area; or have a significant adverse effect on a natural resource of the area; or pose a serious risk to the health or safety of the public in the area.
(sec.18-ssec.4) For applying subsection (2) (b) , the chief executive may ask a person to give the chief executive a medical certificate or other document issued by a doctor to verify the nature of the person’s condition.
(sec.18-ssec.5) In this section— conditionally registered vehicle means a vehicle that is conditionally registered under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management—Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2021 .
(a) by the person for any of the following purposes in a recreation area— (i) for an emergency or rescue activity; (ii) for enforcing a law of the State; (iii) for the management of the area; (iv) for a commercial purpose authorised under the Act ; (v) for supporting an organised event conducted under an organised event permit; (vi) for providing a service to users of the area; (vii) for the sole purpose of going directly through the Moreton Island Recreation area to or from land outside the area if— (A) the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and (B) the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or
(i) for an emergency or rescue activity;
(ii) for enforcing a law of the State;
(iii) for the management of the area;
(iv) for a commercial purpose authorised under the Act ;
(v) for supporting an organised event conducted under an organised event permit;
(vi) for providing a service to users of the area;
(vii) for the sole purpose of going directly through the Moreton Island Recreation area to or from land outside the area if— (A) the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and (B) the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or
(A) the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and
(B) the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or
(b) by the person because they are suffering from a permanent condition that is significantly restricting their mobility.
(i) for an emergency or rescue activity;
(ii) for enforcing a law of the State;
(iii) for the management of the area;
(iv) for a commercial purpose authorised under the Act ;
(v) for supporting an organised event conducted under an organised event permit;
(vi) for providing a service to users of the area;
(vii) for the sole purpose of going directly through the Moreton Island Recreation area to or from land outside the area if— (A) the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and (B) the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or
(A) the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and
(B) the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or
(A) the person owns, occupies or is authorised to enter the land; and
(B) the chief executive considers the most direct and reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; or
(a) cause unreasonable damage to a cultural resource of the area; or
(b) have a significant adverse effect on a natural resource of the area; or
(c) pose a serious risk to the health or safety of the public in the area.
sec.19
Safe use of vehicles by reference to Queensland Road Rules
sec.19 Safe use of vehicles by reference to Queensland Road Rules
This section applies in relation to an act or omission that, if done or made on a road, would contravene any of the following provisions of the Queensland Road Rules (each a road rule )—
section 246A ;
section 256 ;
section 256A ;
section 264 ;
section 264A ;
section 265 ;
section 268 ;
section 270 ;
section 271 (4) or (5);
section 271A .
A person commits an offence against this section if the person does the act or makes the omission in a recreation area, whether or not on a road in the area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
To remove any doubt, it is declared that a person can not be punished for an offence against this section for an act or omission in relation to a road rule if the person has already been punished for an offence against the road rule for the same act or omission.
(sec.19-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to an act or omission that, if done or made on a road, would contravene any of the following provisions of the Queensland Road Rules (each a road rule )— section 246A ; section 256 ; section 256A ; section 264 ; section 264A ; section 265 ; section 268 ; section 270 ; section 271 (4) or (5); section 271A .
(sec.19-ssec.2) A person commits an offence against this section if the person does the act or makes the omission in a recreation area, whether or not on a road in the area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.19-ssec.3) To remove any doubt, it is declared that a person can not be punished for an offence against this section for an act or omission in relation to a road rule if the person has already been punished for an offence against the road rule for the same act or omission.
(a) section 246A ;
(b) section 256 ;
(c) section 256A ;
(d) section 264 ;
(e) section 264A ;
(f) section 265 ;
(g) section 268 ;
(h) section 270 ;
(i) section 271 (4) or (5);
(j) section 271A .
sec.20
Safe use of vehicles by reference to Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995
sec.20 Safe use of vehicles by reference to Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995
This section applies in relation to an act or omission that, if done or made on a road, would contravene either of the following provisions of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (each a road use provision )—
section 83 (1) , other than an act or omission mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) of the penalty for that section;
section 84 (2) .
A person commits an offence against this section if the person does the act or makes the omission in a recreation area, whether or not on a road in the area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
To remove any doubt, it is declared that a person can not be punished for an offence against this section for an act or omission in relation to a road use provision if the person has already been punished for an offence against the road use provision for the same act or omission.
(sec.20-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to an act or omission that, if done or made on a road, would contravene either of the following provisions of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (each a road use provision )— section 83 (1) , other than an act or omission mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) of the penalty for that section; section 84 (2) .
(sec.20-ssec.2) A person commits an offence against this section if the person does the act or makes the omission in a recreation area, whether or not on a road in the area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.20-ssec.3) To remove any doubt, it is declared that a person can not be punished for an offence against this section for an act or omission in relation to a road use provision if the person has already been punished for an offence against the road use provision for the same act or omission.
(a) section 83 (1) , other than an act or omission mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) of the penalty for that section;
(b) section 84 (2) .
sec.21
Requirements for carrying passengers
sec.21 Requirements for carrying passengers
A person must not ride or travel in or on something being towed by a moving motor vehicle in a recreation area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
A person must not carry a passenger, or travel as a passenger, on a relevant motor vehicle in a recreation area other than on a passenger seat for the vehicle.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
In this section—
relevant motor vehicle means each of the following—
a motorbike under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 , schedule 4 ;
a quad bike under the Queensland Road Rules, schedule 5 ;
a utility off-road vehicle under the Queensland Road Rules, schedule 5 .
(sec.21-ssec.1) A person must not ride or travel in or on something being towed by a moving motor vehicle in a recreation area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.21-ssec.2) A person must not carry a passenger, or travel as a passenger, on a relevant motor vehicle in a recreation area other than on a passenger seat for the vehicle. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.21-ssec.3) In this section— relevant motor vehicle means each of the following— a motorbike under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 , schedule 4 ; a quad bike under the Queensland Road Rules, schedule 5 ; a utility off-road vehicle under the Queensland Road Rules, schedule 5 .
(a) a motorbike under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 , schedule 4 ;
(b) a quad bike under the Queensland Road Rules, schedule 5 ;
(c) a utility off-road vehicle under the Queensland Road Rules, schedule 5 .
sec.22
Appropriate places for using vehicles
sec.22 Appropriate places for using vehicles
A person must not, in a recreation area—
drive or ride a vehicle into a place, or move a vehicle into a place, if a barrier or fence has been lawfully placed to prevent entry into the place; or
park or stand a vehicle at a place designated for parking in a way that does not conform with ground or surface markings used for ordering the parking and standing of vehicles.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
A person must not drive or ride a vehicle in, or move a vehicle into, a part of a recreation area unless—
the part is an appropriate area for driving or riding the vehicle; or
the vehicle is driven, ridden or moved in accordance with a permit or written approval of the chief executive.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
A person does not commit an offence against this section if the person has a reasonable excuse.
In this section—
appropriate area , for driving or riding a vehicle, means an area that is—
a road, except for a road on which driving or riding is prohibited by a regulatory notice or sign; or
a part of a coastal beach that is not vegetated, except for a part on which driving or riding is prohibited by a regulatory notice or sign; or
a route or a surface that a regulatory notice states is a route or surface along or on which the type of vehicle may be driven or ridden.
(sec.22-ssec.1) A person must not, in a recreation area— drive or ride a vehicle into a place, or move a vehicle into a place, if a barrier or fence has been lawfully placed to prevent entry into the place; or park or stand a vehicle at a place designated for parking in a way that does not conform with ground or surface markings used for ordering the parking and standing of vehicles. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.22-ssec.2) A person must not drive or ride a vehicle in, or move a vehicle into, a part of a recreation area unless— the part is an appropriate area for driving or riding the vehicle; or the vehicle is driven, ridden or moved in accordance with a permit or written approval of the chief executive. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.22-ssec.3) A person does not commit an offence against this section if the person has a reasonable excuse.
(sec.22-ssec.4) In this section— appropriate area , for driving or riding a vehicle, means an area that is— a road, except for a road on which driving or riding is prohibited by a regulatory notice or sign; or a part of a coastal beach that is not vegetated, except for a part on which driving or riding is prohibited by a regulatory notice or sign; or a route or a surface that a regulatory notice states is a route or surface along or on which the type of vehicle may be driven or ridden.
(a) drive or ride a vehicle into a place, or move a vehicle into a place, if a barrier or fence has been lawfully placed to prevent entry into the place; or
(b) park or stand a vehicle at a place designated for parking in a way that does not conform with ground or surface markings used for ordering the parking and standing of vehicles.
(a) the part is an appropriate area for driving or riding the vehicle; or
(b) the vehicle is driven, ridden or moved in accordance with a permit or written approval of the chief executive.
(a) a road, except for a road on which driving or riding is prohibited by a regulatory notice or sign; or
(b) a part of a coastal beach that is not vegetated, except for a part on which driving or riding is prohibited by a regulatory notice or sign; or
(c) a route or a surface that a regulatory notice states is a route or surface along or on which the type of vehicle may be driven or ridden.
sec.23
Other requirements for using vehicles, vessels and recreational craft
sec.23 Other requirements for using vehicles, vessels and recreational craft
A person must not, in a recreation area—
drive or ride a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft at a speed or in a way that causes or may cause damage to the area; or
use a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft in a way that disrupts or may disrupt someone else’s enjoyment of the area; or
park or stand a vehicle, or moor a vessel, in a way or in a place that may—
obstruct or prevent the free passage of another vehicle or vessel; or
cause damage to or disturb the area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(a) drive or ride a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft at a speed or in a way that causes or may cause damage to the area; or
(b) use a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft in a way that disrupts or may disrupt someone else’s enjoyment of the area; or
(c) park or stand a vehicle, or moor a vessel, in a way or in a place that may— (i) obstruct or prevent the free passage of another vehicle or vessel; or (ii) cause damage to or disturb the area.
(i) obstruct or prevent the free passage of another vehicle or vessel; or
(ii) cause damage to or disturb the area.
(i) obstruct or prevent the free passage of another vehicle or vessel; or
(ii) cause damage to or disturb the area.
sec.24
Traffic control for vehicles, vessels and recreational craft
sec.24 Traffic control for vehicles, vessels and recreational craft
The chief executive may display a sign, or place a marking, at a place in a recreation area regulating the use of a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft, or a type of vehicle, vessel or recreational craft, in the place, including, for example—
by imposing a speed limit; or
by marking a pedestrian crossing; or
stating a part of a place where the use, or a particular use, of the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft or the type of vehicle, vessel or recreational craft is prohibited or restricted; or
stating a part of a place where—
only authorised persons may use the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft; or
only an authorised vehicle, vessel or recreational craft may be used.
An official traffic sign installed in a recreation area under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 is taken to be a sign displayed under subsection (1) .
A person in control of a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft in a recreation area must comply with a sign or marking displayed under subsection (1) .
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
For subsection (3) , if the sign is an official traffic sign, a person complies with the subsection only if the person complies with the indication given by the sign.
If a sign displayed under subsection (1) at a place states a person may use a vehicle only if they are authorised to do so, a person so authorised who is using a vehicle in the place must comply with the authority.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
If a sign displayed under subsection (1) at a place states a vehicle may be used only if the vehicle is authorised, a person in the place who is in control of a vehicle so authorised must comply with the authority.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
In this section—
authorised means authorised in writing by the chief executive.
indication see the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 , schedule 4 .
official traffic sign see the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 , schedule 4 .
(sec.24-ssec.1) The chief executive may display a sign, or place a marking, at a place in a recreation area regulating the use of a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft, or a type of vehicle, vessel or recreational craft, in the place, including, for example— by imposing a speed limit; or by marking a pedestrian crossing; or stating a part of a place where the use, or a particular use, of the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft or the type of vehicle, vessel or recreational craft is prohibited or restricted; or stating a part of a place where— only authorised persons may use the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft; or only an authorised vehicle, vessel or recreational craft may be used.
(sec.24-ssec.2) An official traffic sign installed in a recreation area under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 is taken to be a sign displayed under subsection (1) .
(sec.24-ssec.3) A person in control of a vehicle, vessel or recreational craft in a recreation area must comply with a sign or marking displayed under subsection (1) . Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.24-ssec.4) For subsection (3) , if the sign is an official traffic sign, a person complies with the subsection only if the person complies with the indication given by the sign.
(sec.24-ssec.5) If a sign displayed under subsection (1) at a place states a person may use a vehicle only if they are authorised to do so, a person so authorised who is using a vehicle in the place must comply with the authority. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.24-ssec.6) If a sign displayed under subsection (1) at a place states a vehicle may be used only if the vehicle is authorised, a person in the place who is in control of a vehicle so authorised must comply with the authority. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.24-ssec.7) In this section— authorised means authorised in writing by the chief executive. indication see the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 , schedule 4 . official traffic sign see the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 , schedule 4 .
(a) by imposing a speed limit; or
(b) by marking a pedestrian crossing; or
(c) stating a part of a place where the use, or a particular use, of the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft or the type of vehicle, vessel or recreational craft is prohibited or restricted; or
(d) stating a part of a place where— (i) only authorised persons may use the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft; or (ii) only an authorised vehicle, vessel or recreational craft may be used.
(i) only authorised persons may use the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft; or
(ii) only an authorised vehicle, vessel or recreational craft may be used.
(i) only authorised persons may use the vehicle, vessel or recreational craft; or
(ii) only an authorised vehicle, vessel or recreational craft may be used.
sec.25
Using motorised vessels on lakes or watercourses
sec.25 Using motorised vessels on lakes or watercourses
A person must not use or operate a motorised vessel on a freshwater lake or watercourse unless—
the person is using or operating the vessel in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive; or
using or operating the vessel on the freshwater lake or watercourse is authorised by a regulatory notice.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(a) the person is using or operating the vessel in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive; or
(b) using or operating the vessel on the freshwater lake or watercourse is authorised by a regulatory notice.
pt.5-div.3
Vehicle tags
Vehicle tags
sec.26
Chief executive to give vehicle tags
sec.26 Chief executive to give vehicle tags
This section applies in relation to—
a person issued a vehicle access permit under section 42 (1) of the Act for using a vehicle in a recreation area; or
a person taken to have been issued a vehicle access permit under section 42 (2) or (3) of the Act for using a vehicle in a recreation area.
The chief executive must give the person a tag or label (a vehicle tag ) for the vehicle under the permit.
(sec.26-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to— a person issued a vehicle access permit under section 42 (1) of the Act for using a vehicle in a recreation area; or a person taken to have been issued a vehicle access permit under section 42 (2) or (3) of the Act for using a vehicle in a recreation area.
(sec.26-ssec.2) The chief executive must give the person a tag or label (a vehicle tag ) for the vehicle under the permit.
(a) a person issued a vehicle access permit under section 42 (1) of the Act for using a vehicle in a recreation area; or
(b) a person taken to have been issued a vehicle access permit under section 42 (2) or (3) of the Act for using a vehicle in a recreation area.
sec.27
Application of subdivision
sec.27 Application of subdivision
This subdivision applies in relation to a vehicle being used in a relevant area under a vehicle access permit for which a vehicle tag is issued.
sec.28
Details to be displayed on vehicle tags
sec.28 Details to be displayed on vehicle tags
The person issued the vehicle access permit must ensure the following details are displayed on the vehicle tag for the permit—
the person’s name;
the registration number for the vehicle being used under the permit;
the number identifying the permit;
the start date and end date stated on the permit.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(a) the person’s name;
(b) the registration number for the vehicle being used under the permit;
(c) the number identifying the permit;
(d) the start date and end date stated on the permit.
sec.29
Displaying vehicle tags
sec.29 Displaying vehicle tags
The person in control of the vehicle in the relevant area must display the vehicle tag for the vehicle access permit by attaching the tag to—
the lower left side of the vehicle’s windscreen; or
if the vehicle does not have a windscreen—another prominent position on the vehicle.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
The person must also take reasonable steps to ensure the vehicle tag remains displayed on the vehicle while the vehicle is being used in the relevant area under the vehicle access permit.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
This section applies subject to section 31 .
(sec.29-ssec.1) The person in control of the vehicle in the relevant area must display the vehicle tag for the vehicle access permit by attaching the tag to— the lower left side of the vehicle’s windscreen; or if the vehicle does not have a windscreen—another prominent position on the vehicle. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.29-ssec.2) The person must also take reasonable steps to ensure the vehicle tag remains displayed on the vehicle while the vehicle is being used in the relevant area under the vehicle access permit. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.29-ssec.3) This section applies subject to section 31 .
(a) the lower left side of the vehicle’s windscreen; or
(b) if the vehicle does not have a windscreen—another prominent position on the vehicle.
sec.30
Invalid tags not to be displayed
sec.30 Invalid tags not to be displayed
The person in control of the vehicle in the relevant area must not display on the vehicle an invalid tag for the vehicle.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
In this section—
invalid tag , for the vehicle, means a tag or label given by the chief executive for attaching to another vehicle that is not the vehicle tag for using the vehicle in the relevant area.
(sec.30-ssec.1) The person in control of the vehicle in the relevant area must not display on the vehicle an invalid tag for the vehicle. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.30-ssec.2) In this section— invalid tag , for the vehicle, means a tag or label given by the chief executive for attaching to another vehicle that is not the vehicle tag for using the vehicle in the relevant area.
sec.31
Vehicle tags not to be displayed if permit not in effect
sec.31 Vehicle tags not to be displayed if permit not in effect
The person in control of the vehicle must ensure that the vehicle tag for the vehicle access permit is not displayed on the vehicle if—
the permit has expired; or
the permit has been cancelled or surrendered; or
the permit is suspended.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(a) the permit has expired; or
(b) the permit has been cancelled or surrendered; or
(c) the permit is suspended.
sec.32
Tampering with vehicle tags
sec.32 Tampering with vehicle tags
A person must not tamper with a vehicle tag displayed on a vehicle in a relevant area unless the person has a reasonable excuse.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
In this section—
tamper with , a vehicle tag, means—
to remove, damage or destroy the tag; or
to change anything written on the tag.
(sec.32-ssec.1) A person must not tamper with a vehicle tag displayed on a vehicle in a relevant area unless the person has a reasonable excuse. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.32-ssec.2) In this section— tamper with , a vehicle tag, means— to remove, damage or destroy the tag; or to change anything written on the tag.
(a) to remove, damage or destroy the tag; or
(b) to change anything written on the tag.
pt.5-div.4
Drones
Drones
sec.33
Unauthorised possession or operation of drones
sec.33 Unauthorised possession or operation of drones
A person must not, without a reasonable excuse—
possess or operate a drone in a drone restriction area; or
operate a drone in a drone restriction area from a location adjacent to the area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply to—
a person possessing or operating a drone in a drone restriction area—
under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or
for an emergency or rescue activity; or
a person possessing a drone in a drone restriction area if the drone is securely stored in a container in or on an aircraft, vehicle or vessel.
In this section—
drone restriction area means—
a camping area; or
another part of a recreation area in which a regulatory notice prohibits the operation of a drone.
operate , a drone, includes film or photograph with the drone.
(sec.33-ssec.1) A person must not, without a reasonable excuse— possess or operate a drone in a drone restriction area; or operate a drone in a drone restriction area from a location adjacent to the area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.33-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to— a person possessing or operating a drone in a drone restriction area— under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or for an emergency or rescue activity; or a person possessing a drone in a drone restriction area if the drone is securely stored in a container in or on an aircraft, vehicle or vessel.
(sec.33-ssec.3) In this section— drone restriction area means— a camping area; or another part of a recreation area in which a regulatory notice prohibits the operation of a drone. operate , a drone, includes film or photograph with the drone.
(a) possess or operate a drone in a drone restriction area; or
(b) operate a drone in a drone restriction area from a location adjacent to the area.
(a) a person possessing or operating a drone in a drone restriction area— (i) under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or (ii) for an emergency or rescue activity; or
(i) under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or
(ii) for an emergency or rescue activity; or
(b) a person possessing a drone in a drone restriction area if the drone is securely stored in a container in or on an aircraft, vehicle or vessel.
(i) under a permit or commercial activity agreement; or
(ii) for an emergency or rescue activity; or
(a) a camping area; or
(b) another part of a recreation area in which a regulatory notice prohibits the operation of a drone.
pt.6
Waste and other damage
Waste and other damage
sec.34
Depositing litter brought into recreation areas
sec.34 Depositing litter brought into recreation areas
This section applies to litter brought into a recreation area by a person.
The person, or anyone accompanying the person, must not deposit the litter in the recreation area unless the person has a reasonable excuse.
collecting litter from public land adjacent to the recreation area and bringing the litter into the recreation area to deposit it in a litter bin
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.34-ssec.1) This section applies to litter brought into a recreation area by a person.
(sec.34-ssec.2) The person, or anyone accompanying the person, must not deposit the litter in the recreation area unless the person has a reasonable excuse. collecting litter from public land adjacent to the recreation area and bringing the litter into the recreation area to deposit it in a litter bin Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
sec.35
Depositing other litter
sec.35 Depositing other litter
This section applies to litter other than litter brought into a recreation area.
If there are litter bins in the recreation area, a person must not—
deposit the litter in the area other than in a litter bin; or
deposit the litter in contravention of a regulatory notice.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
If there are no litter bins in a recreation area, a person must not deposit the litter in the area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
For subsection (2) (a) , the person must not deposit the litter in the litter bin unless the litter is securely stored in the bin.
the litter bin is full or damaged so that litter placed in or on the bin may escape from the bin
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.35-ssec.1) This section applies to litter other than litter brought into a recreation area.
(sec.35-ssec.2) If there are litter bins in the recreation area, a person must not— deposit the litter in the area other than in a litter bin; or deposit the litter in contravention of a regulatory notice. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.35-ssec.3) If there are no litter bins in a recreation area, a person must not deposit the litter in the area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.35-ssec.4) For subsection (2) (a) , the person must not deposit the litter in the litter bin unless the litter is securely stored in the bin. the litter bin is full or damaged so that litter placed in or on the bin may escape from the bin Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(a) deposit the litter in the area other than in a litter bin; or
(b) deposit the litter in contravention of a regulatory notice.
sec.36
Complying with direction about litter
sec.36 Complying with direction about litter
If an authorised officer reasonably considers it is necessary or desirable, the officer may give an oral or written direction to a person to remove the person’s litter from a recreation area even if there is a litter bin in the area.
when all the litter bins in a recreation area are full
The person must comply with the direction.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.36-ssec.1) If an authorised officer reasonably considers it is necessary or desirable, the officer may give an oral or written direction to a person to remove the person’s litter from a recreation area even if there is a litter bin in the area. when all the litter bins in a recreation area are full
(sec.36-ssec.2) The person must comply with the direction. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
sec.37
Non-combustible material not to be deposited in fires
sec.37 Non-combustible material not to be deposited in fires
A person must not deposit non-combustible material in a fire in a recreation area.
can, bottle, brick, piece of steel
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
sec.38
Glass not to be broken in recreation areas
sec.38 Glass not to be broken in recreation areas
A person must not break glass in a recreation area unless the person has a reasonable excuse.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
sec.39
Disposing of animal waste in particular areas— Act , s 125
sec.39 Disposing of animal waste in particular areas— Act , s 125
This section applies to the following recreation areas—
Cooloola Recreation Area;
Fraser Island Recreation Area;
Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area;
Moreton Island Recreation Area.
For section 125 (2) (c) of the Act , animal waste of a fish or crab taken in a recreation area, or a place adjacent to a recreation area, may be disposed of by burying the waste below the high-water mark and at least 50cm below the surface of land in the area.
(sec.39-ssec.1) This section applies to the following recreation areas— Cooloola Recreation Area; Fraser Island Recreation Area; Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area; Moreton Island Recreation Area.
(sec.39-ssec.2) For section 125 (2) (c) of the Act , animal waste of a fish or crab taken in a recreation area, or a place adjacent to a recreation area, may be disposed of by burying the waste below the high-water mark and at least 50cm below the surface of land in the area.
(a) Cooloola Recreation Area;
(b) Fraser Island Recreation Area;
(c) Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area;
(d) Moreton Island Recreation Area.
pt.7
Other conduct
Other conduct
sec.40
Using compressors, generators or similar motors— Act , s 128
sec.40 Using compressors, generators or similar motors— Act , s 128
For section 128 (d) of the Act , this section prescribes permitted uses of a compressor, generator or other similar motor.
A person may use a compressor, generator or other similar motor in a recreation area if—
the compressor, generator or motor is on a vessel; and
the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark; and
the compressor, generator or motor is not connected, including, for example, by an air hose or electrical lead, to a device on land.
Also, a person may use a generator in a recreation area if—
the person uses a generator to operate a device for the treatment of a documented medical condition of the person; and
the generator does not emit a noise of more than 65dB(A) when measured 7m from the generator.
In this section—
dB(A) means decibels measured on the ‘A’ frequency weighting network.
documented medical condition , of a person, means a medical condition for which the person has a medical certificate or other document issued by a doctor stating that the person has the condition.
(sec.40-ssec.1) For section 128 (d) of the Act , this section prescribes permitted uses of a compressor, generator or other similar motor.
(sec.40-ssec.2) A person may use a compressor, generator or other similar motor in a recreation area if— the compressor, generator or motor is on a vessel; and the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark; and the compressor, generator or motor is not connected, including, for example, by an air hose or electrical lead, to a device on land.
(sec.40-ssec.3) Also, a person may use a generator in a recreation area if— the person uses a generator to operate a device for the treatment of a documented medical condition of the person; and the generator does not emit a noise of more than 65dB(A) when measured 7m from the generator.
(sec.40-ssec.4) In this section— dB(A) means decibels measured on the ‘A’ frequency weighting network. documented medical condition , of a person, means a medical condition for which the person has a medical certificate or other document issued by a doctor stating that the person has the condition.
(a) the compressor, generator or motor is on a vessel; and
(b) the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark; and
(c) the compressor, generator or motor is not connected, including, for example, by an air hose or electrical lead, to a device on land.
(a) the person uses a generator to operate a device for the treatment of a documented medical condition of the person; and
(b) the generator does not emit a noise of more than 65dB(A) when measured 7m from the generator.
sec.41
Possessing weapons, explosives or traps— Act , s 130
sec.41 Possessing weapons, explosives or traps— Act , s 130
For section 130 (2) (b) of the Act , this section prescribes the circumstances in which a person is authorised to possess a device mentioned in section 130 (1) of the Act .
Under section 130 (1) of the Act , a person must not, without authorisation, possess or use a bow, catapult, weapon, explosive device, net, snare or trap.
A person may possess the device in a recreation area if the device is securely stored in a dismantled state in or on a vehicle or vessel while the device is in the area.
Without limiting subsection (1) , a device is securely stored in or on a vehicle or vessel if it is kept in a place in or on the vehicle or vessel where it is not easily accessible and is out of sight.
(sec.41-ssec.1) For section 130 (2) (b) of the Act , this section prescribes the circumstances in which a person is authorised to possess a device mentioned in section 130 (1) of the Act . Under section 130 (1) of the Act , a person must not, without authorisation, possess or use a bow, catapult, weapon, explosive device, net, snare or trap.
(sec.41-ssec.2) A person may possess the device in a recreation area if the device is securely stored in a dismantled state in or on a vehicle or vessel while the device is in the area.
(sec.41-ssec.3) Without limiting subsection (1) , a device is securely stored in or on a vehicle or vessel if it is kept in a place in or on the vehicle or vessel where it is not easily accessible and is out of sight.
sec.42
Unlawfully soliciting donations or information
sec.42 Unlawfully soliciting donations or information
A person must not solicit donations or information in a recreation area unless the person solicits the donations or information in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
sec.43
Unlawfully displaying or disseminating notices or other documents
sec.43 Unlawfully displaying or disseminating notices or other documents
A person must not display or disseminate a notice or other document in a recreation area without the written approval of the chief executive.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply to a person—
displaying an official traffic sign in a recreation area under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 ; or
displaying a notice in a recreation area under another law of the State or the Commonwealth.
In this section—
disseminate , a notice or document, includes distribute, drop or leave the notice or document.
(sec.43-ssec.1) A person must not display or disseminate a notice or other document in a recreation area without the written approval of the chief executive. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.43-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to a person— displaying an official traffic sign in a recreation area under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 ; or displaying a notice in a recreation area under another law of the State or the Commonwealth.
(sec.43-ssec.3) In this section— disseminate , a notice or document, includes distribute, drop or leave the notice or document.
(a) displaying an official traffic sign in a recreation area under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 ; or
(b) displaying a notice in a recreation area under another law of the State or the Commonwealth.
pt.8
Records for particular permits
Records for particular permits
sec.44
Application of part— Act , s 219
sec.44 Application of part— Act , s 219
For section 219 of the Act , this part prescribes matters about keeping records in relation to the following permits (each a recorded activity permit )—
a commercial activity permit, other than a commercial activity permit for filming or photography;
an organised event permit if—
camping is authorised under the permit; or
the permit allows for special access to the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit for conducting an activity authorised under the permit; or
the permit provides for special supervision of an activity authorised under the permit; or
the permit allows for the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit to be reserved for the purposes of an activity authorised under the permit.
(a) a commercial activity permit, other than a commercial activity permit for filming or photography;
(b) an organised event permit if— (i) camping is authorised under the permit; or (ii) the permit allows for special access to the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit for conducting an activity authorised under the permit; or (iii) the permit provides for special supervision of an activity authorised under the permit; or (iv) the permit allows for the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit to be reserved for the purposes of an activity authorised under the permit.
(i) camping is authorised under the permit; or
(ii) the permit allows for special access to the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit for conducting an activity authorised under the permit; or
(iii) the permit provides for special supervision of an activity authorised under the permit; or
(iv) the permit allows for the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit to be reserved for the purposes of an activity authorised under the permit.
(i) camping is authorised under the permit; or
(ii) the permit allows for special access to the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit for conducting an activity authorised under the permit; or
(iii) the permit provides for special supervision of an activity authorised under the permit; or
(iv) the permit allows for the recreation area or part of the recreation area the subject of the permit to be reserved for the purposes of an activity authorised under the permit.
sec.45
Information to be included in records
sec.45 Information to be included in records
The holder of a recorded activity permit must make a record of the following information about each activity authorised and conducted under the permit—
a description of the activity;
the date the activity is conducted;
the sites visited or used for conducting the activity;
if the permit is a commercial activity permit—the number of clients who took part in the activity;
if the permit is an organised event permit—the number of persons who took part in the activity;
if the permit states the activity is a vehicle-based activity—the number of vehicles used for the activity;
if camping is conducted under the permit—the number of persons camping under the permit.
The information for each activity must be recorded before the end of each day on which the activity is conducted.
(sec.45-ssec.1) The holder of a recorded activity permit must make a record of the following information about each activity authorised and conducted under the permit— a description of the activity; the date the activity is conducted; the sites visited or used for conducting the activity; if the permit is a commercial activity permit—the number of clients who took part in the activity; if the permit is an organised event permit—the number of persons who took part in the activity; if the permit states the activity is a vehicle-based activity—the number of vehicles used for the activity; if camping is conducted under the permit—the number of persons camping under the permit.
(sec.45-ssec.2) The information for each activity must be recorded before the end of each day on which the activity is conducted.
(a) a description of the activity;
(b) the date the activity is conducted;
(c) the sites visited or used for conducting the activity;
(d) if the permit is a commercial activity permit—the number of clients who took part in the activity;
(e) if the permit is an organised event permit—the number of persons who took part in the activity;
(f) if the permit states the activity is a vehicle-based activity—the number of vehicles used for the activity;
(g) if camping is conducted under the permit—the number of persons camping under the permit.
sec.46
How records must be kept
sec.46 How records must be kept
The holder of a recorded activity permit must keep each record for the permit in an electronic system.
If the electronic system is not working on the day information for the recorded activity permit must be recorded, the holder must—
record the information in another form on the day; and
enter the information into the system within 24 hours after the holder becomes aware the system is accessible.
Each record for a recorded activity permit must be kept—
in a retrievable and legible form; and
securely in a way that can not be altered, obscured, deleted or removed without detection.
a record is kept in an electronic system that is accessible only by using a password
The holder must keep each record for at least 2 years after the holder stops conducting activities under the recorded activity permit.
(sec.46-ssec.1) The holder of a recorded activity permit must keep each record for the permit in an electronic system.
(sec.46-ssec.2) If the electronic system is not working on the day information for the recorded activity permit must be recorded, the holder must— record the information in another form on the day; and enter the information into the system within 24 hours after the holder becomes aware the system is accessible.
(sec.46-ssec.3) Each record for a recorded activity permit must be kept— in a retrievable and legible form; and securely in a way that can not be altered, obscured, deleted or removed without detection. a record is kept in an electronic system that is accessible only by using a password
(sec.46-ssec.4) The holder must keep each record for at least 2 years after the holder stops conducting activities under the recorded activity permit.
(a) record the information in another form on the day; and
(b) enter the information into the system within 24 hours after the holder becomes aware the system is accessible.
(a) in a retrievable and legible form; and
(b) securely in a way that can not be altered, obscured, deleted or removed without detection. Example for paragraph (b) — a record is kept in an electronic system that is accessible only by using a password
sec.47
Giving records to chief executive—commercial activity permits
sec.47 Giving records to chief executive—commercial activity permits
Each record made under section 45 for a commercial activity permit must be given to the chief executive—
in the approved form; and
for each prescribed period for the permit; and
within 20 business days after the end of each prescribed period for the permit.
Subsection (1) applies even if no activities were conducted under the commercial activity permit or the permit ended during the prescribed period.
In this section—
prescribed period , for a commercial activity permit, means—
if the chief executive gives the holder of the permit a notice stating each prescribed period for the permit—each stated period; or
otherwise—each quarter of a financial year starting at the beginning of the first quarter after the permit is granted.
(sec.47-ssec.1) Each record made under section 45 for a commercial activity permit must be given to the chief executive— in the approved form; and for each prescribed period for the permit; and within 20 business days after the end of each prescribed period for the permit.
(sec.47-ssec.2) Subsection (1) applies even if no activities were conducted under the commercial activity permit or the permit ended during the prescribed period.
(sec.47-ssec.3) In this section— prescribed period , for a commercial activity permit, means— if the chief executive gives the holder of the permit a notice stating each prescribed period for the permit—each stated period; or otherwise—each quarter of a financial year starting at the beginning of the first quarter after the permit is granted.
(a) in the approved form; and
(b) for each prescribed period for the permit; and
(c) within 20 business days after the end of each prescribed period for the permit.
(a) if the chief executive gives the holder of the permit a notice stating each prescribed period for the permit—each stated period; or
(b) otherwise—each quarter of a financial year starting at the beginning of the first quarter after the permit is granted.
sec.48
Giving records to chief executive—organised event permits
sec.48 Giving records to chief executive—organised event permits
Each record made under section 45 for an organised event permit must be given to the chief executive—
in the approved form; and
within 20 business days after the organised event conducted under the permit ends.
(a) in the approved form; and
(b) within 20 business days after the organised event conducted under the permit ends.
sec.49
Payment of activity fees
sec.49 Payment of activity fees
This section applies in relation to each record given to the chief executive under section 47 or 48 by the holder of a recorded activity permit.
If the holder requests an invoice for the record, the chief executive must give the holder an invoice stating—
the activity fees for the period to which the record relates; and
the period, of at least 7 days after the holder is given the invoice, within which the fees must be paid to the chief executive.
The holder must pay the chief executive—
if the holder requested an invoice for the record—the activity fees for the record stated in the invoice within the period, and in the way, stated in the invoice; or
otherwise—the activity fees for the record at the same time the holder gives the record to the chief executive.
In this section—
activity fees , in relation to a record, means any additional daily fee and camping fee payable under the Act for the permit to which the record relates.
(sec.49-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to each record given to the chief executive under section 47 or 48 by the holder of a recorded activity permit.
(sec.49-ssec.2) If the holder requests an invoice for the record, the chief executive must give the holder an invoice stating— the activity fees for the period to which the record relates; and the period, of at least 7 days after the holder is given the invoice, within which the fees must be paid to the chief executive.
(sec.49-ssec.3) The holder must pay the chief executive— if the holder requested an invoice for the record—the activity fees for the record stated in the invoice within the period, and in the way, stated in the invoice; or otherwise—the activity fees for the record at the same time the holder gives the record to the chief executive.
(sec.49-ssec.4) In this section— activity fees , in relation to a record, means any additional daily fee and camping fee payable under the Act for the permit to which the record relates.
(a) the activity fees for the period to which the record relates; and
(b) the period, of at least 7 days after the holder is given the invoice, within which the fees must be paid to the chief executive.
(a) if the holder requested an invoice for the record—the activity fees for the record stated in the invoice within the period, and in the way, stated in the invoice; or
(b) otherwise—the activity fees for the record at the same time the holder gives the record to the chief executive.
pt.9
Fees
Fees
pt.9-div.1
Fees payable
Fees payable
sec.50
Fees generally
sec.50 Fees generally
Subject to another provision of this part, the fees payable under the Act are stated in schedule 3 .
sec.51
Rounding of amounts expressed as numbers of fee units
sec.51 Rounding of amounts expressed as numbers of fee units
This section applies for working out the amount of a fee expressed in this regulation as a number of fee units.
For the purpose of the Acts Interpretation Act 1954 , section 48C (3) , the amount is to be rounded—
if the result is not more than $2.50—to the nearest cent (rounding one-half upwards); or
if the result is more than $2.50 but not more than $100—to the nearest multiple of 5 cents (rounding one-half upwards); or
if the result is more than $100 but not more than $500—to the nearest multiple of 10 cents (rounding one-half upwards); or
if the result is more than $500—to the nearest dollar (rounding one-half upwards).
(sec.51-ssec.1) This section applies for working out the amount of a fee expressed in this regulation as a number of fee units.
(sec.51-ssec.2) For the purpose of the Acts Interpretation Act 1954 , section 48C (3) , the amount is to be rounded— if the result is not more than $2.50—to the nearest cent (rounding one-half upwards); or if the result is more than $2.50 but not more than $100—to the nearest multiple of 5 cents (rounding one-half upwards); or if the result is more than $100 but not more than $500—to the nearest multiple of 10 cents (rounding one-half upwards); or if the result is more than $500—to the nearest dollar (rounding one-half upwards).
(a) if the result is not more than $2.50—to the nearest cent (rounding one-half upwards); or
(b) if the result is more than $2.50 but not more than $100—to the nearest multiple of 5 cents (rounding one-half upwards); or
(c) if the result is more than $100 but not more than $500—to the nearest multiple of 10 cents (rounding one-half upwards); or
(d) if the result is more than $500—to the nearest dollar (rounding one-half upwards).
sec.52
Proceedings for recovery of unpaid fees
sec.52 Proceedings for recovery of unpaid fees
This section applies in relation to a person who has not paid a fee when it is payable under the Act .
A proceeding may be started against the person for the recovery of the fee, or part of the fee, whether or not—
a prosecution has been started against the person for an offence relating to the failure to pay the fee; or
the person has been convicted of an offence relating to the failure to pay the fee.
A fee payable under the Act is a debt due to the State.
(sec.52-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to a person who has not paid a fee when it is payable under the Act .
(sec.52-ssec.2) A proceeding may be started against the person for the recovery of the fee, or part of the fee, whether or not— a prosecution has been started against the person for an offence relating to the failure to pay the fee; or the person has been convicted of an offence relating to the failure to pay the fee.
(sec.52-ssec.3) A fee payable under the Act is a debt due to the State.
(a) a prosecution has been started against the person for an offence relating to the failure to pay the fee; or
(b) the person has been convicted of an offence relating to the failure to pay the fee.
pt.9-div.2
Waivers
Waivers
sec.53
Waiver of application fee for particular permits and agreements
sec.53 Waiver of application fee for particular permits and agreements
This section applies in relation to an application for a commercial activity permit, an organised event permit or a commercial activity agreement (each a RAM application ) if—
the activity for which the permit or agreement is sought is to be conducted in a recreation area and 1 or more of the following areas—
a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ;
a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
the applicant has also applied for an authority (however called) for conducting the activity in the protected area or State forest (the related application ); and
the chief executive is satisfied the RAM application and related application can be considered together.
The chief executive may waive payment of the fee payable for the RAM application to the extent of the amount already paid for the related application, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the fee for the RAM application.
s 53 amd 2025 SL No. 144 s 26
(sec.53-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to an application for a commercial activity permit, an organised event permit or a commercial activity agreement (each a RAM application ) if— the activity for which the permit or agreement is sought is to be conducted in a recreation area and 1 or more of the following areas— a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and the applicant has also applied for an authority (however called) for conducting the activity in the protected area or State forest (the related application ); and the chief executive is satisfied the RAM application and related application can be considered together.
(sec.53-ssec.2) The chief executive may waive payment of the fee payable for the RAM application to the extent of the amount already paid for the related application, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the fee for the RAM application.
(a) the activity for which the permit or agreement is sought is to be conducted in a recreation area and 1 or more of the following areas— (i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; (ii) a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
(i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ;
(ii) a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
(b) the applicant has also applied for an authority (however called) for conducting the activity in the protected area or State forest (the related application ); and
(c) the chief executive is satisfied the RAM application and related application can be considered together.
(i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ;
(ii) a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
sec.54
Waiver of permit fee for commercial activity permits
sec.54 Waiver of permit fee for commercial activity permits
This section applies if—
the chief executive waives, under section 53 , all or part of the application fee payable for an application for a commercial activity permit; and
the applicant has paid another fee that is a permit fee (however called) for an authority mentioned in section 53 (1) (b) (the equivalent fee ).
The permit fee mentioned in schedule 3 for the commercial activity permit is waived to the extent of the amount of the equivalent fee, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the equivalent fee.
(sec.54-ssec.1) This section applies if— the chief executive waives, under section 53 , all or part of the application fee payable for an application for a commercial activity permit; and the applicant has paid another fee that is a permit fee (however called) for an authority mentioned in section 53 (1) (b) (the equivalent fee ).
(sec.54-ssec.2) The permit fee mentioned in schedule 3 for the commercial activity permit is waived to the extent of the amount of the equivalent fee, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the equivalent fee.
(a) the chief executive waives, under section 53 , all or part of the application fee payable for an application for a commercial activity permit; and
(b) the applicant has paid another fee that is a permit fee (however called) for an authority mentioned in section 53 (1) (b) (the equivalent fee ).
sec.55
Waiver of application fee for transfer of particular joint commercial activity permits
sec.55 Waiver of application fee for transfer of particular joint commercial activity permits
This section applies to an application to transfer a joint permission permit under part 4 , division 5A of the Act (a transfer application ) if—
the permit forms part of a joint permission; and
the commercial activity for which the permit is held is conducted in—
a recreation area; and
a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; and
the applicant has also applied under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 to transfer the permit in relation to conducting the activity in the protected area (the related application ); and
the applicant has paid an application fee (however called) for the related application; and
the chief executive is satisfied the transfer application and related application can be considered together.
The chief executive may waive payment of the fee payable for the transfer application to the extent of the amount already paid for the related application, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the fee for the transfer application.
(sec.55-ssec.1) This section applies to an application to transfer a joint permission permit under part 4 , division 5A of the Act (a transfer application ) if— the permit forms part of a joint permission; and the commercial activity for which the permit is held is conducted in— a recreation area; and a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; and
(sec.55-ssec) the applicant has also applied under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 to transfer the permit in relation to conducting the activity in the protected area (the related application ); and the applicant has paid an application fee (however called) for the related application; and the chief executive is satisfied the transfer application and related application can be considered together.
(sec.55-ssec.2) The chief executive may waive payment of the fee payable for the transfer application to the extent of the amount already paid for the related application, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the fee for the transfer application.
(a) the permit forms part of a joint permission; and
(b) the commercial activity for which the permit is held is conducted in— (ii) a recreation area; and (i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; and
(ii) a recreation area; and
(i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; and
(ii) a recreation area; and
(i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; and
(c) the applicant has also applied under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 to transfer the permit in relation to conducting the activity in the protected area (the related application ); and
(c) the applicant has paid an application fee (however called) for the related application; and
(d) the chief executive is satisfied the transfer application and related application can be considered together.
sec.56
Waiver of additional daily fee for particular permits
sec.56 Waiver of additional daily fee for particular permits
This section applies in relation to a commercial activity permit, other than for filming or photography, or an organised event permit (the RAM permit ) if—
the holder, or a relevant person for the holder, conducts the activity authorised under the permit in the recreation area to which the permit applies and also conducts the activity in 1 or more of the following areas—
a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ;
a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
the same persons are taking part in the activity conducted in the protected area or State forest under an equivalent permit (however called) under the relevant Act; and
the permit holder or relevant person has paid a daily fee (however called) for conducting the activity under the equivalent permit.
The additional daily fee payable under the Act for conducting the activity under the RAM permit is waived to the extent of the amount already paid for conducting the activity under the equivalent permit, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the additional daily fee for the RAM permit.
In this section—
daily fee does not include a fee payable for camping overnight.
s 56 amd 2025 SL No. 144 s 27
(sec.56-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to a commercial activity permit, other than for filming or photography, or an organised event permit (the RAM permit ) if— the holder, or a relevant person for the holder, conducts the activity authorised under the permit in the recreation area to which the permit applies and also conducts the activity in 1 or more of the following areas— a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and the same persons are taking part in the activity conducted in the protected area or State forest under an equivalent permit (however called) under the relevant Act; and the permit holder or relevant person has paid a daily fee (however called) for conducting the activity under the equivalent permit.
(sec.56-ssec.2) The additional daily fee payable under the Act for conducting the activity under the RAM permit is waived to the extent of the amount already paid for conducting the activity under the equivalent permit, up to an amount not more than the full amount of the additional daily fee for the RAM permit.
(sec.56-ssec.3) In this section— daily fee does not include a fee payable for camping overnight.
(a) the holder, or a relevant person for the holder, conducts the activity authorised under the permit in the recreation area to which the permit applies and also conducts the activity in 1 or more of the following areas— (i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ; (ii) a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
(i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ;
(ii) a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
(b) the same persons are taking part in the activity conducted in the protected area or State forest under an equivalent permit (however called) under the relevant Act; and
(c) the permit holder or relevant person has paid a daily fee (however called) for conducting the activity under the equivalent permit.
(i) a protected area under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 ;
(ii) a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 ; and
pt.9-div.3
Fee exemptions
Fee exemptions
sec.57
Exemption for camping permits granted to particular persons
sec.57 Exemption for camping permits granted to particular persons
No fee is payable for a camping permit granted to a person who is in a recreation area that is adjacent to a relevant national park to prepare—
under the Aboriginal Land Act 1991 , a claim to, or a management statement or management plan for, the national park; or
under the Torres Strait Islander Land Act 1991 , a claim to the national park.
In this section—
national park means an area dedicated under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 as a national park.
relevant national park means a national park, or part of a national park, other than a national park or part—
declared under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 , section 42A to be a special management area (controlled action); and
managed to include the matters mentioned in section 17 (1A) (a) of that Act.
(sec.57-ssec.1) No fee is payable for a camping permit granted to a person who is in a recreation area that is adjacent to a relevant national park to prepare— under the Aboriginal Land Act 1991 , a claim to, or a management statement or management plan for, the national park; or under the Torres Strait Islander Land Act 1991 , a claim to the national park.
(sec.57-ssec.2) In this section— national park means an area dedicated under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 as a national park. relevant national park means a national park, or part of a national park, other than a national park or part— declared under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 , section 42A to be a special management area (controlled action); and managed to include the matters mentioned in section 17 (1A) (a) of that Act.
(a) under the Aboriginal Land Act 1991 , a claim to, or a management statement or management plan for, the national park; or
(b) under the Torres Strait Islander Land Act 1991 , a claim to the national park.
(a) declared under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 , section 42A to be a special management area (controlled action); and
(b) managed to include the matters mentioned in section 17 (1A) (a) of that Act.
sec.58
Exemption for particular activities directed at conservation
sec.58 Exemption for particular activities directed at conservation
The chief executive may grant an exemption from the payment of a fee relating to a permit for a recreation area if the chief executive is satisfied—
the activities to be conducted under the permit will make a significant contribution to—
the conservation of nature generally; or
the conservation or presentation of the cultural or natural resources of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; or
the management of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; and
any commercial or recreational aspect of the activities is not the primary purpose for conducting the activities.
In this section—
marine park see the Marine Parks Act 2004 , schedule.
protected area see the Nature Conservation Act 1992 , schedule.
(sec.58-ssec.1) The chief executive may grant an exemption from the payment of a fee relating to a permit for a recreation area if the chief executive is satisfied— the activities to be conducted under the permit will make a significant contribution to— the conservation of nature generally; or the conservation or presentation of the cultural or natural resources of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; or the management of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; and any commercial or recreational aspect of the activities is not the primary purpose for conducting the activities.
(sec.58-ssec.2) In this section— marine park see the Marine Parks Act 2004 , schedule. protected area see the Nature Conservation Act 1992 , schedule.
(a) the activities to be conducted under the permit will make a significant contribution to— (i) the conservation of nature generally; or (ii) the conservation or presentation of the cultural or natural resources of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; or (iii) the management of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; and
(i) the conservation of nature generally; or
(ii) the conservation or presentation of the cultural or natural resources of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; or
(iii) the management of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; and
(b) any commercial or recreational aspect of the activities is not the primary purpose for conducting the activities.
(i) the conservation of nature generally; or
(ii) the conservation or presentation of the cultural or natural resources of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; or
(iii) the management of a recreation area, a protected area or a marine park; and
sec.59
Exemption for vehicle access permits
sec.59 Exemption for vehicle access permits
The chief executive may grant a person an exemption from the payment of a fee for a vehicle access permit for a recreation area if the chief executive is satisfied—
the person reasonably requires the permit to access—
the person’s principal place of residence; or
land in which the person has a registered interest, other than land subject to a time share scheme; or
the principal place of residence of a close relative of the person; or
the person reasonably requires the permit to access the area for carrying out the person’s employment, trade, business or profession.
In this section—
carrying out , employment, or a trade, business or profession, does not include soliciting for employment, trade or business.
close relative , of a person, means the person’s—
spouse; or
parent or grandparent; or
brother or sister; or
child or grandchild.
time share scheme see the Land Title Act 1994 , schedule 2 .
(sec.59-ssec.1) The chief executive may grant a person an exemption from the payment of a fee for a vehicle access permit for a recreation area if the chief executive is satisfied— the person reasonably requires the permit to access— the person’s principal place of residence; or land in which the person has a registered interest, other than land subject to a time share scheme; or the principal place of residence of a close relative of the person; or the person reasonably requires the permit to access the area for carrying out the person’s employment, trade, business or profession.
(sec.59-ssec.2) In this section— carrying out , employment, or a trade, business or profession, does not include soliciting for employment, trade or business. close relative , of a person, means the person’s— spouse; or parent or grandparent; or brother or sister; or child or grandchild. time share scheme see the Land Title Act 1994 , schedule 2 .
(a) the person reasonably requires the permit to access— (i) the person’s principal place of residence; or (ii) land in which the person has a registered interest, other than land subject to a time share scheme; or (iii) the principal place of residence of a close relative of the person; or
(i) the person’s principal place of residence; or
(ii) land in which the person has a registered interest, other than land subject to a time share scheme; or
(iii) the principal place of residence of a close relative of the person; or
(b) the person reasonably requires the permit to access the area for carrying out the person’s employment, trade, business or profession.
(i) the person’s principal place of residence; or
(ii) land in which the person has a registered interest, other than land subject to a time share scheme; or
(iii) the principal place of residence of a close relative of the person; or
(a) spouse; or
(b) parent or grandparent; or
(c) brother or sister; or
(d) child or grandchild.
sec.60
Exemption for Cooloola Recreation Area vehicle access permits granted to residents of Inskip or Rainbow Beach
sec.60 Exemption for Cooloola Recreation Area vehicle access permits granted to residents of Inskip or Rainbow Beach
The chief executive may grant a person an exemption from the payment of a fee for a vehicle access permit for the Cooloola Recreation Area, if the chief executive is satisfied the person’s principal place of residence is in Inskip or Rainbow Beach.
This section does not limit the operation of section 59 .
In this section—
Inskip or Rainbow Beach means the area shown as Inskip or the area shown as Rainbow Beach on the map in schedule 4 .
(sec.60-ssec.1) The chief executive may grant a person an exemption from the payment of a fee for a vehicle access permit for the Cooloola Recreation Area, if the chief executive is satisfied the person’s principal place of residence is in Inskip or Rainbow Beach.
(sec.60-ssec.2) This section does not limit the operation of section 59 .
(sec.60-ssec.3) In this section— Inskip or Rainbow Beach means the area shown as Inskip or the area shown as Rainbow Beach on the map in schedule 4 .
sec.61
Application for exemption of fee
sec.61 Application for exemption of fee
A person may make an application (a fee exemption application ) to the chief executive for an exemption from the payment of a fee for a permit under a ground mentioned in subdivision 2 .
The fee exemption application must—
be in the approved form; and
include details to support why the exemption should be granted under the ground; and
be made before or when the application for the permit is made.
The applicant must provide any other relevant information reasonably required by the chief executive to decide the fee exemption application.
(sec.61-ssec.1) A person may make an application (a fee exemption application ) to the chief executive for an exemption from the payment of a fee for a permit under a ground mentioned in subdivision 2 .
(sec.61-ssec.2) The fee exemption application must— be in the approved form; and include details to support why the exemption should be granted under the ground; and be made before or when the application for the permit is made.
(sec.61-ssec.3) The applicant must provide any other relevant information reasonably required by the chief executive to decide the fee exemption application.
(a) be in the approved form; and
(b) include details to support why the exemption should be granted under the ground; and
(c) be made before or when the application for the permit is made.
sec.62
Deciding fee exemption application
sec.62 Deciding fee exemption application
The chief executive must consider each fee exemption application and either—
grant the application, with or without conditions decided by the chief executive; or
refuse the application.
(a) grant the application, with or without conditions decided by the chief executive; or
(b) refuse the application.
sec.63
Grant of exemption under fee exemption application
sec.63 Grant of exemption under fee exemption application
If the chief executive decides to grant the exemption to which a fee exemption application relates, the chief executive must give the applicant a notice stating—
the permit to which the exemption applies; and
if the chief executive has imposed any conditions on the exemption—
the conditions; and
the reasons for the conditions.
(a) the permit to which the exemption applies; and
(b) if the chief executive has imposed any conditions on the exemption— (i) the conditions; and (ii) the reasons for the conditions.
(i) the conditions; and
(ii) the reasons for the conditions.
(i) the conditions; and
(ii) the reasons for the conditions.
sec.64
Refusal of exemption under fee exemption application
sec.64 Refusal of exemption under fee exemption application
If the chief executive decides to refuse a fee exemption application, the chief executive must give the applicant a notice of the decision.
sec.65
Effect of grant of exemption under fee exemption application
sec.65 Effect of grant of exemption under fee exemption application
This section applies if the chief executive has granted an exemption to which a fee exemption application relates.
No fee is payable by the applicant for the permit to which the exemption relates.
However, if the chief executive has imposed conditions on the exemption, subsection (2) applies only if the applicant complies with the condition.
(sec.65-ssec.1) This section applies if the chief executive has granted an exemption to which a fee exemption application relates.
(sec.65-ssec.2) No fee is payable by the applicant for the permit to which the exemption relates.
(sec.65-ssec.3) However, if the chief executive has imposed conditions on the exemption, subsection (2) applies only if the applicant complies with the condition.
pt.9-div.4
Refunds
Refunds
sec.66
Refund of fees
sec.66 Refund of fees
This section applies if a permit has been—
amended to an extent that a fee paid for the permit is higher than the fee that would be payable for the permit in its amended form; or
amended or suspended under section 64 of the Act ; or
cancelled or suspended under section 65 (1) (a) of the Act ; or
surrendered under section 66 of the Act .
The chief executive may, on the chief executive’s own initiative or on application, refund all or part of a fee paid for the permit if the chief executive considers the refund is appropriate having regard to—
the nature of the amendment, suspension, cancellation or surrender; and
any other relevant matter.
The chief executive may refund the fee in the way the chief executive considers appropriate.
by giving the person the amount refunded
by deducting the amount refunded from another fee the person is required to pay under the Act
If a person applies to the chief executive for a refund, the chief executive may deduct the refund processing fee from the amount refunded.
In this section—
refund processing fee , for an application for a refund, means the fee—
decided by the chief executive, being not more than the reasonable cost of—
considering the application; and
refunding the fee or part of the fee to the applicant; and
published on the department’s website.
(sec.66-ssec.1) This section applies if a permit has been— amended to an extent that a fee paid for the permit is higher than the fee that would be payable for the permit in its amended form; or amended or suspended under section 64 of the Act ; or cancelled or suspended under section 65 (1) (a) of the Act ; or surrendered under section 66 of the Act .
(sec.66-ssec.2) The chief executive may, on the chief executive’s own initiative or on application, refund all or part of a fee paid for the permit if the chief executive considers the refund is appropriate having regard to— the nature of the amendment, suspension, cancellation or surrender; and any other relevant matter.
(sec.66-ssec.3) The chief executive may refund the fee in the way the chief executive considers appropriate. by giving the person the amount refunded by deducting the amount refunded from another fee the person is required to pay under the Act
(sec.66-ssec.4) If a person applies to the chief executive for a refund, the chief executive may deduct the refund processing fee from the amount refunded.
(sec.66-ssec.5) In this section— refund processing fee , for an application for a refund, means the fee— decided by the chief executive, being not more than the reasonable cost of— considering the application; and refunding the fee or part of the fee to the applicant; and published on the department’s website.
(a) amended to an extent that a fee paid for the permit is higher than the fee that would be payable for the permit in its amended form; or
(b) amended or suspended under section 64 of the Act ; or
(c) cancelled or suspended under section 65 (1) (a) of the Act ; or
(d) surrendered under section 66 of the Act .
(a) the nature of the amendment, suspension, cancellation or surrender; and
(b) any other relevant matter.
• by giving the person the amount refunded
• by deducting the amount refunded from another fee the person is required to pay under the Act
(a) decided by the chief executive, being not more than the reasonable cost of— (i) considering the application; and (ii) refunding the fee or part of the fee to the applicant; and
(i) considering the application; and
(ii) refunding the fee or part of the fee to the applicant; and
(b) published on the department’s website.
(i) considering the application; and
(ii) refunding the fee or part of the fee to the applicant; and
pt.10
Repeal
Repeal
sec.67
Repeal
sec.67 Repeal
The Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2017, No. 158 is repealed.
pt.11
Transitional provisions
Transitional provisions
sec.68
Definitions for part
sec.68 Definitions for part
In this part—
corresponding provision , for a repealed provision, means a provision of this regulation that provides for the same, or substantially the same, matter as the repealed provision.
repealed , in relation to a provision of the repealed regulation, means the provision as in force from time to time under the repealed regulation.
repealed regulation means the repealed Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2017 .
sec.69
Existing approvals continued
sec.69 Existing approvals continued
This section applies in relation to the following written approvals in effect immediately before the commencement (each an existing approval )—
a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 12(a) to use or operate a motorised vessel on a freshwater lake or watercourse;
a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 28(2) to take a plant into a recreation area to make a fire;
a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 34(1) to solicit donations or information in a recreation area;
a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 35(1) to display, distribute, drop, scatter, throw down or leave a notice, handbill or other printed or written matter in a recreation area.
Each existing approval—
is taken to be given under the corresponding provision for the repealed provision under which the approval was given; and
continues in effect under this regulation for the same recreation area, or part of a recreation area, and term for which the approval was given; and
is subject to the same conditions or other restrictions that applied to the approval immediately before the commencement.
Subsection (2) does not prevent the existing approval being amended or cancelled by the chief executive.
(sec.69-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to the following written approvals in effect immediately before the commencement (each an existing approval )— a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 12(a) to use or operate a motorised vessel on a freshwater lake or watercourse; a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 28(2) to take a plant into a recreation area to make a fire; a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 34(1) to solicit donations or information in a recreation area; a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 35(1) to display, distribute, drop, scatter, throw down or leave a notice, handbill or other printed or written matter in a recreation area.
(sec.69-ssec.2) Each existing approval— is taken to be given under the corresponding provision for the repealed provision under which the approval was given; and continues in effect under this regulation for the same recreation area, or part of a recreation area, and term for which the approval was given; and is subject to the same conditions or other restrictions that applied to the approval immediately before the commencement.
(sec.69-ssec.3) Subsection (2) does not prevent the existing approval being amended or cancelled by the chief executive.
(a) a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 12(a) to use or operate a motorised vessel on a freshwater lake or watercourse;
(b) a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 28(2) to take a plant into a recreation area to make a fire;
(c) a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 34(1) to solicit donations or information in a recreation area;
(d) a written approval given by the chief executive under repealed section 35(1) to display, distribute, drop, scatter, throw down or leave a notice, handbill or other printed or written matter in a recreation area.
(a) is taken to be given under the corresponding provision for the repealed provision under which the approval was given; and
(b) continues in effect under this regulation for the same recreation area, or part of a recreation area, and term for which the approval was given; and
(c) is subject to the same conditions or other restrictions that applied to the approval immediately before the commencement.
sec.70
Existing signs or markings for traffic control
sec.70 Existing signs or markings for traffic control
This section applies to a sign erected or marking placed by the chief executive under repealed section 13(1) that was not removed by the chief executive before the commencement.
The sign is taken to be displayed, and the marking taken to placed, under section 24(1).
(sec.70-ssec.1) This section applies to a sign erected or marking placed by the chief executive under repealed section 13(1) that was not removed by the chief executive before the commencement.
(sec.70-ssec.2) The sign is taken to be displayed, and the marking taken to placed, under section 24(1).
sec.71
Existing application for exemption
sec.71 Existing application for exemption
This section applies in relation to an application made under repealed section 60 for an exemption from the payment of a fee for a permit.
If, immediately before the commencement, the existing application had not been decided, the application—
is taken to be an application of the same kind under the corresponding provision for the repealed provision; and
may be decided under the repealed provision.
No fee is payable for the application under this regulation if all fees for the existing application payable under the repealed regulation were paid before the commencement.
(sec.71-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to an application made under repealed section 60 for an exemption from the payment of a fee for a permit.
(sec.71-ssec.2) If, immediately before the commencement, the existing application had not been decided, the application— is taken to be an application of the same kind under the corresponding provision for the repealed provision; and may be decided under the repealed provision.
(sec.71-ssec.3) No fee is payable for the application under this regulation if all fees for the existing application payable under the repealed regulation were paid before the commencement.
(a) is taken to be an application of the same kind under the corresponding provision for the repealed provision; and
(b) may be decided under the repealed provision.
sec.72
Existing records
sec.72 Existing records
A record made or kept, under a repealed provision, before the commencement in relation to an existing recorded activity permit is taken to be made or kept under the corresponding provision for the repealed provision.
sec.73
References to repealed regulation
sec.73 References to repealed regulation
In an instrument, a reference to the repealed regulation may, if the context permits, be taken to be a reference to this regulation.
sch.1-pt.1
Existing recreation areas
Existing recreation areas
sch.1-pt.2
Continuing declared recreation areas
Continuing declared recreation areas
sch.1-pt.3
Continued amalgamated recreation area
Continued amalgamated recreation area
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
pt.1 Introduction
Introduction
pt.1-div.1 Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1 Short title
sec.1 Short title
This regulation may be cited as the Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2024 .
sec.2 Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This regulation commences on 22 September 2024.
pt.1-div.2 Interpretation
Interpretation
sec.3 Definitions
sec.3 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 5 defines particular words used in this regulation.
sec.4 Prescribed recreational craft—Act, schedule
sec.4 Prescribed recreational craft—Act, schedule
For the Act , schedule, definition recreational craft , the following wheeled devices are prescribed—
a kite buggy;
a land windsurfing board;
a land yacht.
(a) a kite buggy;
(b) a land windsurfing board;
(c) a land yacht.
pt.2 Recreation areas
Recreation areas
sec.5 Existing recreation areas— Act , s 235
sec.5 Existing recreation areas— Act , s 235
Each existing recreation area is described in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 2 opposite the name of the area stated in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 1.
A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
A reference to another plan in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan registered in the land registry under the Land Act 1994 .
In this section—
existing recreation area means an area of land mentioned in section 235 of the Act that continues to be a recreation area under the Act .
(sec.5-ssec.1) Each existing recreation area is described in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 2 opposite the name of the area stated in schedule 1 , part 1 , column 1.
(sec.5-ssec.2) A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
(sec.5-ssec.3) A reference to another plan in schedule 1 , part 1 is a reference to a plan registered in the land registry under the Land Act 1994 .
(sec.5-ssec.4) In this section— existing recreation area means an area of land mentioned in section 235 of the Act that continues to be a recreation area under the Act .
sec.6 Continuing declared and amalgamated recreation areas— Act , ss 7 and 8
sec.6 Continuing declared and amalgamated recreation areas— Act , ss 7 and 8
requires holders of certain commercial activity and organised event permits to keep daily electronic records, supply them to the chief executive in an approved form and pay related activity fees (ss 44-49);
prescribes fees and rounding rules (ss 50-51; fees stated in schedule 3), recovery of unpaid fees as a debt due to the State (s 52), waivers and exemptions (ss 53-66), and refund powers (s 66);
provides transitional continuity for existing approvals, signs and records from the repealed regulation to avoid immediate disruption (ss 69-73).
The chief executive holds recurring discretionary roles across the instrument: granting written approvals and vehicle-tagging (ss 18, 24, 26), receiving and assessing fee-exemption applications (ss 61-65), deciding waivers (ss 53-56, 58-60) and refund decisions (s 66). Numerous offences carry maximum penalties,principally 10 or 20 penalty units,creating criminal and administrative incentives to comply.
The regulation is densely cross-referential. It integrates existing regulatory architectures (for example, Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995, Queensland Road Rules, Nature Conservation Act 1992, Forestry Act 1959 and Land Act 1994) and delegates many implementation details to the chief executive and regulatory notices or signs. The net effect, mechanically, is to move a range of place-based operational rules and permit compliance obligations into a single instrument that both constrains and conditions recreational and commercial activity across State-managed recreation areas.
Main concepts
The regulation organises regulatory control around a small set of recurring concepts that drive obligations and permissions.
Recreation area identification and plans: The regulation records “existing recreation areas” (s 5) and continuing declared or amalgamated recreation areas (s 6, schedule 1), and it expressly ties plan references to documents held by the department or registered under the Land Act 1994 (s 5(2)-(3)). These provisions make land descriptions and plan references legally operative.
Permits and approvals: The Act’s permit architecture is operationalised here. Multiple provisions tie behaviour to the existence, terms and display of permits: vehicle access permits (ss 26-32), camping permits and e-permit camping areas (ss 10-11), organised event permits and commercial activity permits (part 8, ss 44-49). The chief executive has power to grant written approvals in many contexts (for example, conditional vehicle approvals s 18, operation of motorised vessels on freshwater s 25), and regulatory notices can alter permitted use of parts of areas (s 24).
Tagging and information display: Camping tags (ss 10-12) and vehicle tags (ss 26-32) must contain specified details and be displayed in specified ways. For e-permit areas, camping tags must display explicit data points including permit number, arrival and departure dates and vehicle number plates (s 11). The display and integrity of tags are enforced; tampering is an offence (ss 12, 32).
Vehicle regulation and road-rule carryover: Vehicle use in recreation areas is constrained by licensing (s 15), registration status (s 16), number-plate legibility (s 17), explicit approval requirements for conditionally-registered vehicles (s 18), and by importing a subset of the Queensland Road Rules and road-use provisions from the Transport Operations Act (ss 19-20). The regulation declares that an official traffic sign installed under the Transport Operations Act is taken to be a sign for traffic control in a recreation area (s 24(2)), and it provides the chief executive authority to display traffic-control signage (s 24(1)).
Record-keeping and reporting: Holders of “recorded activity permits” (certain commercial activity permits and organised event permits) must record specified information every day the activity is conducted (s 45), keep records in a specified electronic system with fallback processes (s 46), and provide the records to the chief executive in an approved form and by specific timeframes (ss 47-48). These records are the basis for activity fees and related invoices (s 49).
Fees, waivers and refunds: Fees are set in schedule 3 (s 50) and subject to rounding rules (s 51). The chief executive has a number of discretionary relief powers: waivers or exemptions where activities intersect with protected areas or State forests (ss 53-56), exemptions for conservation-directed activities (s 58), residence-based exemptions for vehicle-access permits (ss 59-60), and a process for applying for and deciding fee-exemption requests (ss 61-65). Refunds and refund processing fees are authorised (s 66).
Prohibitions and behavioural controls: The regulation contains specific prohibitions with criminal penalties for behaviours that cause environmental harm or public-safety risk: taking plants for fire (s 9), depositing litter (ss 34-36), inserting non-combustibles into fires (s 37), breaking glass (s 38), unauthorised drone use in drone restriction areas (s 33), possession of weapons unless securely stored (s 41), and solicitation or distribution without approval (ss 42-43). Many provisions include exceptions where the chief executive has expressly authorised the behaviour or where the person has a reasonable excuse.
Cross-reference and interoperation: The instrument repeatedly cross-references external statutes and instruments: Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 and Queensland Road Rules for on‑site traffic behaviour (ss 19-24), Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Forestry Act 1959 for waiver interactions (ss 53, 56), Land Act 1994 for plan registration (s 5), Marine Parks Act for definitions (s 58), and Land Title Act 1994 in defining time-share exceptions (s 59). This means implementation depends on interpreting multiple statutes together.
Transitional continuity: The regulation preserves extant approvals, traffic signs and records from the repealed 2017 regulation during transition, but allows the chief executive to amend or cancel those approvals (ss 69-73). This prevents automatic loss of prior authorisations while retaining administrative discretion.
These core concepts determine who must act, who may be authorised, what must be recorded and displayed, how vehicle and craft safety rules are applied, and how fees, waivers and refunds are administered.
Who it affects
This regulation affects several distinct groups; the duties and incentives differ by role:
Recreation users generally: All persons who enter or use recreation areas are subject to behavioural prohibitions and obligations. For example, campers must display camping tags (s 10), cannot take plants for fires (s 9), must not deposit litter (ss 34-35), and must comply with traffic-control signs (s 24). Visitors operating vessels or vehicles will be constrained by licensing and registration (ss 15-17) and by the imported road rules (ss 19-20).
Residents and landowners adjacent to recreation areas: Clauses create specific allowances for people transiting with dogs through Moreton Island Recreation Area when transporting to or from their own land, subject to strict conditions (s 7(3)). Vehicle access exemptions (s 59) and the Cooloola-specific exemption for Inskip or Rainbow Beach residents (s 60) principally affect people with lodgings or interests adjacent to recreation areas.
Commercial operators and event organisers: Holders of commercial activity permits and organised event permits are significantly affected. They must maintain daily records (s 45), keep those records in an electronic system with specified security and retention standards (s 46), give records to the chief executive in the approved form and within deadlines (ss 47-48), and pay activity fees as required (s 49). Fee-waiver and cross-application provisions (ss 53-56) also directly affect commercial operators who operate across recreation areas and other protected areas.
Vehicle owners and drivers: Anyone driving in a recreation area must hold the required licence (s 15), must not bring unregistered vehicles unless under permit or with a reasonable excuse (s 16), and must keep number plates legible (s 17). Those using conditionally registered vehicles require written approval from the chief executive with restricted grounds and exclusions (s 18). Vehicle access permit holders must display vehicle tags with prescribed information (ss 26-31) and must not display invalid tags or display tags when the permit is not in effect (ss 30-31).
Permit applicants and holders: People applying for permits interact with fee-exemption and waiver processes (ss 53-66, 61-65). The chief executive’s discretion over waivers, exemptions and refunds affects applicants’ cost exposure and timing. Holders of recorded activity permits must comply with record-keeping, reporting and payment obligations.
Drone operators and photographers: Drone operation is tightly constrained in drone restriction areas and camping areas (s 33). Film and photography as a commercial activity are noted as exceptions in the record-keeping part (s 44 excludes commercial activity permits for filming/photography from recorded permit requirements), so operators in this sector must check which obligations apply.
Authorised officers and the department: The chief executive and authorised officers gain enforcement powers and administrative responsibilities: issuing vehicle tags (s 26), placing signs and markings (s 24), giving directions about litter removal (s 36), deciding fee-exemption applications (ss 61-65) and waivers (ss 53-56), and handling refunds (s 66). The department is also the repository for plans (s 5).
Third parties affected by regulatory notices and signs: Businesses providing services in recreation areas, emergency services, local governments and other State entities might be authorised by regulatory notices or signs to carry out activities otherwise restricted (s 24(1), s 14). The regulation enables limited exemptions for government vehicles (s 14).
The distribution of burdens and benefits is therefore concentrated: commercial permit-holders and regular vehicle-access users bear most recurrent administrative and fee burdens; residents adjacent to recreation areas may benefit from specific fee exemptions; and the chief executive holds substantial discretion shaping implementation. Compliance is not purely voluntary for users; many operational activities require permits and visible tags whose absence or alteration creates a criminal exposure up to 10-20 penalty units (see multiple provisions).
Key duties and rights
Key duties flow from displays and permits, environmental protection rules, vehicle regulation and record-keeping requirements. Rights are mainly administrative , to apply for permits, seek exemptions, and request refunds.
Duties (selected and sourced)
Display and retain camping tags: A person camping under a camping permit must attach the camping tag to their tent, caravan, structure or, where none is used, the vehicle, vessel or equipment, immediately after starting camping and must take reasonable steps to ensure it remains displayed while camping (s 10(1)-(2)). Maximum penalty for breach is 10 penalty units.
Display required details in e-permit areas: Holders in e-permit camping areas must ensure camping tags display prescribed information including holder’s name, permit number, e-camping area identity, arrival/departure dates, total authorised persons and vehicle number plate where relevant (s 11(2)). Maximum penalty 10 penalty units.
Do not tamper with tags: Tampering with camping tags or vehicle tags (remove, damage, destroy, or change anything written on the tag) is an offence unless a reasonable excuse exists (ss 12, 32). Maximum penalty 20 penalty units.
Vehicle licensing and registration: A person must not drive or ride a vehicle in a recreation area unless they hold the licence required to drive or ride the vehicle on a road (s 15). A person must not bring an unregistered vehicle into or drive or ride an unregistered vehicle in a recreation area, except under permit or with a reasonable excuse (s 16). Number plates must be attached and legible (s 17). Maximum penalty for each breach is typically 20 penalty units.
Written approval for conditionally registered vehicles: Driving or riding a conditionally registered vehicle in a recreation area requires written approval from the chief executive and approvals may be given only for specific purposes enumerated in s 18(2). The chief executive must refuse where the use would likely cause unreasonable damage to cultural resources, significant adverse effects on natural resources or a serious risk to public health or safety (s 18(3)). The chief executive may request medical documentation for mobility-related approvals (s 18(4)).
Comply with road rules and road-use prohibitions: The regulation imports specific Queensland Road Rules provisions (s 19) and specified provisions of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (s 20), making the listed acts or omissions offences in recreation areas irrespective of whether they occur on a road. Penalty maxima are 20 penalty units but the regulation prevents double punishment for the same act if already punished under the road rule or road-use provision (ss 19(3), 20(3)).
Respect traffic signs and markings: The chief executive can display signs regulating vehicle, vessel or recreational craft use; persons in control must comply with these signs (s 24). Official traffic signs installed under the Transport Operations Act are taken to be signs for the purposes of s 24 (s 24(2)).
Drone restrictions: Possession or operation of a drone in a drone restriction area is prohibited without a reasonable excuse; exceptions include permitted activity, emergency or secure storage (s 33).
Litter, fires and waste: Persons bringing litter must not deposit it unless they have a reasonable excuse (s 34). Other litter must be placed in litter bins where bins exist, or not deposited if no bins exist (s 35). Authorised officers may direct a visitor to remove litter (s 36). Plant material may not be taken or used for fires unless provided by, or approved by, the chief executive (s 9). Non-combustible material cannot be deposited in fires (s 37). A person must not break glass unless they have a reasonable excuse (s 38).
Record-keeping and reporting: Holders of recorded activity permits must create daily records of activities (s 45), keep them in an electronic system with fallback procedures within 24 hours (s 46), retain records for at least two years after activities stop (s 46(4)), and supply records to the chief executive in an approved form and within prescribed periods (ss 47-48). The holder must also pay activity fees in the ways and timeframes stated (s 49).
Rights and administrative entitlements
Right to apply for permits and exemptions: Persons may apply for permits (the Act) and for fee exemptions under the regulation (s 61). The chief executive must consider each application and grant or refuse with or without conditions (s 62). If granted, the chief executive must notify the applicant of the permit, conditions and reasons for conditions (s 63). If refused, the applicant must be given a notice (s 64).
Waivers and exemptions: The chief executive may waive application fees where related applications allow combined consideration (s 53), waive permit fees where equivalent fees have been paid under other Acts (s 54), waive transfer application fees for joint permits (s 55), and waive additional daily fees where overlapping permits have already attracted fees in other areas (s 56). Exemptions for conservation activities or for vehicle-access permits on various grounds are authorised (ss 58-60).
Refund and recovery processes: The chief executive may refund fees where permits are amended, suspended, cancelled or surrendered (s 66) and may impose a published refund processing fee on application. Fees unpaid may be recovered by proceedings and are a debt due to the State (s 52).
Transitional rights: Existing approvals, signs and records under the repealed regulation continue in force under corresponding provisions until amended or cancelled (ss 69-73). This is an administrative continuity right for existing permit-holders and authorised sign placements.
Overall, duties place operational and record-keeping friction on permit-holders and frequent users, while rights focus on seeking administrative relief and contestable decisions by the chief executive. The chief executive’s discretionary authorities are a central administrative lever throughout the regulation.
Penalties and enforcement
The regulation enforces compliance primarily through monetary fines expressed as penalty units, combined with administrative controls such as tag display requirements, authorisations and surrender/cancellation powers. Enforcement mechanisms and key penalty levels are distributed across the instrument.
Penalty architecture
Penalty units: The regulation repeatedly prescribes maximum penalties in penalty units (typically 10 or 20 penalty units) for breaches of duties. Examples include 10 penalty units for failing to display camping tags or vehicle tags (ss 10(1), 28; s 29(1) lists 10 penalty units), and 20 penalty units for tampering with camping or vehicle tags, driving without the required licence, bringing unregistered vehicles, breaking glass, depositing litter, unauthorised drone operation and many other offences (ss 12, 15-17, 32, 33, 34-38). The regulation does not itself state the dollar value of a penalty unit; that is a matter for other statutes.
Recovery as debt: Fees unpaid when due can be pursued by a proceeding for recovery, whether or not criminal proceedings have also been started and regardless of conviction (s 52). The regulation declares a fee payable under the Act a debt due to the State (s 52(3)).
Enforcement actors and powers
Chief executive: The chief executive plays a dual role as administrator and enforcer. The chief executive issues written approvals (s 18), gives vehicle tags (s 26), displays traffic-control signs and markings (s 24), decides fee exemptions and waivers (ss 53-56, 61-65), and handles refund decisions (s 66). The chief executive also can authorise vehicle or craft use in restricted areas by written approval (s 24(5)-(6)).
Authorised officers: Where an authorised officer reasonably considers it necessary, they may give an oral or written direction to a person to remove the person’s litter from a recreation area even if a litter bin exists (s 36). The person must comply (s 36(2)). The term “authorised officer” is used in the Act; the regulation provides powers that authorised officers will execute operationally.
Signs and official traffic signs: The chief executive can display signs or markings to regulate vehicle, vessel and craft use (s 24). An official traffic sign installed under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 is treated as a sign under s 24(2) and carries enforceable indications under s 24(4). Failure to comply with a sign attracts a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units (s 24(3)).
Double-punishment protection and evidentiary overlap
The regulation expressly prevents double punishment for acts that are punishable both under the imported road rules or road-use provisions and under the regulation. Sections 19(3) and 20(3) declare that a person cannot be punished under the regulation for an act or omission in relation to a road rule or road-use provision if the person has already been punished for the same act or omission under the relevant road rule or road-use provision. This reduces risk of cumulative sanctions for the same factual conduct.
Offences tied to permits and tags
Tag offences provide an immediate enforcement hook: displaying invalid tags, tag tampering, or displaying tags where a permit is expired/cancelled/suspended are individually criminalised (ss 30-32). These provisions enable straightforward enforcement where an enforcement officer inspects a vehicle or campsite and observes a missing or altered tag.
Discretionary limits and administrative remedies
Many enforcement points involve administrative discretion rather than a strict statutory prohibition; for example, the chief executive must not give approvals for conditionally registered vehicles where significant environmental or cultural damage, or serious risk to public health or safety, would result (s 18(3)). Fee waivers, refunds and exemptions are subject to the chief executive’s view of whether statutory criteria are met (ss 53-66). That discretion centralises many enforcement and relief decisions within the department.
Practical enforcement considerations
Because the regulation uses many “reasonable excuse” exceptions (for example, ss 12, 33, 38), enforcement will often turn on factual assessment at point-of-contact or later administrative or criminal processes. The daily record requirement for recorded activity permits (s 45) and electronic submission obligations (s 46-47) create an evidentiary trail that enforcement authorities can use to confirm compliance or calculate activity fees.
In sum, enforcement combines criminal penalties for discrete breaches, civil debt recovery for unpaid fees, and administrative controls exercised by the chief executive and authorised officers, mediated by specific recording and display obligations that facilitate detection.
How it interacts with other laws
The regulation is explicitly drafted to operate in conjunction with a range of other State statutes and instruments. It imports, cross-references and defers to external regimes for technical definitions, operational rules and overlapping permit systems. Key interactions:
Transport and road law
Queensland Road Rules: Sections 19 and 24 integrate selected provisions of the Queensland Road Rules into recreation-area regulation. Section 19 applies specified Queensland Road Rules provisions (listed in s 19(1)) so acts or omissions contravening those provisions on a road would also be an offence in a recreation area. Section 24(2) recognises official traffic signs under the Transport Operations Act as signs for the recreation area. The regulation also includes a statutory protection against double punishment where an offender is already punished under the relevant road rule (s 19(3)).
Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995: Section 20 imports selected road-use provisions from that Act (s 83(1) and s 84(2) excepting certain conduct) so that particular road-use offences apply in recreation areas. S 18 references the Transport Operations (Road Use Management,Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2021 to define conditionally registered vehicles.
Land and planning instruments
Land Act 1994: Plan references in schedule 1 are linked to plans registered in the land registry under the Land Act 1994 or available for inspection from the department (s 5(2)-(3)). This aligns legal land descriptions and plan records between land registration and recreation-area management.
Land Title Act 1994: The regulation references “time share scheme” as defined in the Land Title Act 1994 when limiting vehicle-access fee exemptions for registered interests (s 59).
Conservation, forestry and marine laws
Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Forestry Act 1959: The regulation creates mechanisms to coordinate permitting and fee waivers for activities that also require authority under other Acts (s 53 and s 56 refer to protected areas under the Nature Conservation Act and State forests under the Forestry Act). This enables fee waivers or offsets where applicants have parallel approvals in adjacent regimes.
Marine Parks Act 2004: The regulation’s definitions for terms used in the context of conservation exemptions reference the Marine Parks Act schedule (s 58(2)).
Administrative overlap and joint permissions
Joint permissions and transfer applications: Section 55 deals with joint permission permits created by the Act (part 4, division 5A of the Act) and provides fee-waiver rules where transfer applications are co‑ordinated with related applications under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. The regulation therefore anticipates cross-Act procedural interactions.
Court and enforcement law
Debt recovery procedures: Section 52 declares unpaid fees a debt due to the State and allows proceedings for recovery whether or not prosecutions are underway. This creates a civil-redress route that operates alongside criminal enforcement in the statutory architecture.
Permits under other regimes
The regulation specifically contemplates applicants who are also dealing with other statutory regimes (for example, protected areas under the Nature Conservation Act). It permits the chief executive to waive fees to the extent equivalent fees have been paid under other Acts (s 54, s 56), effectively recognising the claimant’s prior regulatory cost under other legislation.
Official signage and traffic law interplay
By treating official traffic signs installed under the Transport Operations Act as signs under s 24, the regulation removes ambiguity about whether those signs have legal force within recreation areas. It aligns the traffic-control and enforcement regimes between road networks and recreation grounds.
Transitional continuity with the repealed regulation
The regulation provides continuity for approvals, vehicles tags and records issued under the repealed Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2017 (ss 69-73). This continuity preserves the legal effect of prior administrative actions while allowing the department to align further administrative processes with other statutes.
Overall, the regulation is designed to work within an existing statutory ecosystem rather than displacing it. Practitioners must therefore read the regulation alongside: the parent Act, the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 and its road rules, the Nature Conservation Act 1992, the Forestry Act 1959, Land Act 1994, Land Title Act 1994, the Marine Parks Act 2004, and any relevant departmental regulatory notices and official traffic signage. The regulation contains several “bridging” clauses to reduce friction in multi‑Act processes (notably waiver and offset provisions), but leaves substantive discretionary decisions to the chief executive.
Amendment history
The regulation itself contains explicit statements about repeal, commencement and a small number of express amendment annotations within the text. The principal historical mechanics recorded in the instrument are:
Commencement and repeal: The Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2024 commences on 22 September 2024 (s 2). It expressly repeals the Recreation Areas Management Regulation 2017, No. 158 (s 67).
Transitional provisions preserving prior approvals and materials: Sections 68-73 supply an extensive transitional framework that preserves existing written approvals given under the repealed regulation, treats existing signs and markings as if made under the new regulation, continues existing applications of the same kind, and preserves records (ss 69-72). Section 73 allows instruments referring to the repealed regulation to be read as references to the new regulation where context permits.
Embedded amendment annotations: The regulation text includes at least two embedded amendment notations:
Section 53 contains the annotation “s 53 amd 2025 SL No. 144 s 26”. This records that s 53 was amended in 2025 by subordinate legislation SL No. 144 (s 26).
Section 56 contains the annotation “s 56 amd 2025 SL No. 144 s 27”. This records that s 56 was amended in 2025 by the same subordinate legislation (s 27).
Those internal amendment annotations indicate at least one tranche of subsequent subordinate legislation altered the fee-waiver provisions after initial commencement. The regulation contains no other internal amendment history entries.
Schedules referenced but not provided here: The regulation relies on schedules for fee amounts (schedule 3), lists of recreation areas and plans (schedule 1), and definitions in schedule 5. Changes to those schedules would typically be made by amendment instruments; the regulation does not self-document further schedule changes within the provided text.
Absent matters and procedural inferences
The instrument does not include any recorded case law, litigation outcomes or regulatory impact statements within its text. It does, however, provide for a substantial administrative architecture likely to produce further secondary instruments, regulatory notices, signs and departmental directions after commencement. Because the chief executive exercises broad discretion, much practical operational detail will be developed administratively post-enactment.
For practitioners, the embedded amendment annotations are important: they tell you certain waiver provisions were tweaked in 2025 via subordinate legislation. For a complete amendment history, consult legislative and subordinate legislation registers and the department’s instrument registers; the regulation itself provides only the starting point and the two recorded amendments.
Litigation history
The regulation text as provided contains no references to decisions of courts or tribunals, and names no cases. It does not record any prior litigation regarding its predecessor regulation or these provisions. In the absence of any cases mentioned in the source, there is no litigation history to summarise from the instrument itself.
Implications for practitioners
No judicial interpretation present in the source: Because the instrument contains no case references, there is no on‑point judicial construction recorded in the regulation. Any questions arising about ambiguous terms (for example, what constitutes “reasonable excuse” in a particular context, or what precise testing the chief executive must apply in exercising discretion) will depend on future administrative practice and, if contested, judicial review or criminal prosecutions that generate case law.
Prospect of administrative law challenges: The regulation confers significant discretionary powers on the chief executive (waivers, exemptions, approvals, refunds). Administrative law principles (such as procedural fairness, reasonableness, and statutory construction) will be applicable where applicants seek judicial review of adverse decisions. That litigation history is not present in the regulation; it will develop through case filings and decisions after disputes arise.
Enforcement and evidentiary practice: The daily-record and electronic-recording obligations (ss 45-46) and tag-display mechanisms (ss 10, 29) create administrative evidence likely to be used in any enforcement proceedings. Absence of recorded litigation means there is no authoritative guidance yet on how courts will treat the statutory “reasonable excuse” exceptions or the interplay between regulation offences and related offences under the Transport Operations Act.
In short, the regulation itself provides no litigation pedigree. For litigation history relevant to interpreting its provisions, practitioners must watch regulatory decisions and court cases emerging after the regulation’s operation begins, and check the case law and tribunal records as issues are litigated.
Gotchas
The regulation contains numerous specific drafting choices that create traps for users and administrators alike. The following are concrete, source‑grounded pitfalls and points likely to generate disputes or compliance failures:
Display and tampering traps
Tag display specifics: Camping and vehicle tags must be displayed in particular places and include prescribed content (ss 10-11, 28-29). Failure to attach immediately on arrival (s 10(1)) or to display required details for e-permit areas (s 11(2)) attracts penalties. The regulation treats the tag itself as a primary compliance and enforcement artefact; altering or removing a tag is a 20-penalty-unit offence (ss 12, 32). Practitioners should note the combination of strict display rules and strict anti-tampering offences means small procedural lapses (lost tag, torn tag) can become criminal exposures if not explained or promptly remedied.
Electronic-tag and e-permit nuance
Printing from electronic systems: s 11(3) allows a holder to print a camping tag provided electronically by the chief executive; the printed tag must display all details provided electronically. Absent clear departmental guidance on what an acceptable printed tag looks like, enforcement officers may challenge the printed format. Operators in e-permit camping areas should retain electronic confirmations and carry printouts that exactly mirror the electronic content.
Conditionally registered vehicle approvals: evidential and discretionary burdens
Narrow grounds and negative criteria: s 18 allows approval for conditionally registered vehicles only for enumerated purposes and expressly forbids approval where use would likely cause unreasonable cultural resource damage, significant adverse effects on natural resources or pose serious public safety risks (s 18(2)-(3)). The chief executive’s discretion is wide; applicants should prepare evidence on purpose, route and environmental impact and be prepared to produce medical evidence where mobility is the basis for approval (s 18(4)).
Double-punishment avoidance and enforcement complexity
Non-cumulative enforcement but parallel systems: ss 19(3) and 20(3) state a person cannot be punished under the regulation if already punished under the road rule or road-use provision for the same act. This prevents double punishment, but raises practical enforcement questions: detection, charging pathways and which enforcement body proceeds. Operational coordination between road authorities and recreation-area enforcement will be needed to avoid inconsistent charging.
Record-keeping and IT availability
Electronic system obligations and short fallback window: s 46 requires electronic recording and, if the system is not working, a holder must record information in another form on the day and enter it into the system within 24 hours of the system becoming accessible. This is a tight schedule for operators in remote areas with intermittent connectivity. Failure to meet these narrow deadlines or to secure records in a way that prevents undetected alteration (s 46(3)) could attract compliance enforcement or undermine fee accounting.
Fee waiver discretions and administrative risk
Chief executive’s discretion and inter-Act offsets: Sections 53-56 allow the chief executive to waive fees where applications can be considered jointly or equivalent fees already paid under other Acts. While administratively helpful, these provisions create uncertainty for applicants: the regulation uses “may” rather than “must,” so waivers are discretionary. Applicants relying on waiver expectations should not assume entitlement and should maintain financial contingencies.
Drone rules and film/photography interactions
Camping-area drone prohibition vs. film-permit carve-out: s 33 prohibits drone use in drone restriction areas, which includes camping areas, unless permitted. Part 8 excludes commercial activity permits for filming or photography from the recorded-activity permit obligations (s 44). Practitioners handling commercial filming must check both the drone prohibition and the specific permit terms,film permit exceptions do not automatically override drone restrictions; separate written approvals will still be necessary.
Scope of what is “securely stored”
Weapons and plant material: s 41 allows possession of weapons etc. if securely stored in a dismantled state in or on a vehicle or vessel, while s 8 defines when a plant is “securely stored” (for example, covered in the cabin). These terms are operational and fact-sensitive. What an enforcement officer sees as “easily accessible” or “not easily accessible” (s 41(3)) could produce immediate prosecution risk unless clearly documented or physically demonstrable.
Litter rules and reasonable excuses
Strict deposit prohibitions: ss 34-36 prohibit depositing litter and authorise directions to remove litter even where bins exist. The regulation includes limited examples of a reasonable excuse (s 34 contains a parenthetical example about collecting litter from adjacent public land); however the “reasonable excuse” standard is open-ended and could generate contested enforcement scenarios.
Transitional continuity but amendment risk
Existing approvals continue but can be altered: s 69 continues existing approvals under corresponding provisions but does not prevent the chief executive amending or cancelling them. Holders of legacy approvals should not assume permanent entitlements and should monitor departmental action.
Practical consequence: a small operational mistake,forgetting to display a tag, printing a tag incorrectly, failing to enter a record within 24 hours, or operating a drone from a campsite,can lead to a prosecutable offence with penalty-unit exposure. Permit-holders and operators should prioritise administrative processes, evidence retention (screenshots of e-permits, printouts, daily logs) and pre-approval where necessary to reduce enforcement risk.
How to comply
This section provides a practical compliance checklist mapped to key provisions. It concentrates on actions a permit-holder, commercial operator, resident, or frequent user should take to reduce legal and administrative risk under the regulation. Citations reference the section numbers in the instrument.
Permits, tags and display
Keep permits and tags current and available: Always have the physical or printed camping tag or vehicle tag provided by the chief executive and ensure it is attached in the prescribed location immediately upon starting camping or upon using a vehicle under a vehicle-access permit (camping , s 10(1); vehicle tags , s 29(1)). For vehicles, attach the tag to the lower left side of the windscreen or another prominent position if no windscreen (s 29(1)(a)-(b)). Do not display vehicle tags if the permit is expired, cancelled, surrendered or suspended (s 31).
Record tag details and retain confirmation: For e-permit areas, ensure the tag displays the holder’s name, permit number, e-camping area name, arrival/departure dates, total persons authorised and vehicle number plate if using a vehicle (s 11(2)). If printing the e-tag, retain the original electronic confirmation and ensure the printed version reproduces all electronic details (s 11(3)).
Avoid tampering: Do not remove, damage, destroy or alter any camping or vehicle tag unless a reasonable excuse applies (ss 12, 32). If a tag is lost or damaged, take immediate steps to obtain replacement documentation and retain evidence of attempted remedy.
Vehicle and craft use
Licences and registration: Ensure all drivers and riders hold the licence required for the relevant vehicle (s 15). Do not bring unregistered vehicles into recreation areas unless you hold a permit, commercial activity agreement, or have a reasonable excuse (s 16). Confirm the required number plates are attached and legible (s 17).
Apply for written approval for conditional registrations: If the vehicle is conditionally registered under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management,Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2021, obtain written approval from the chief executive before driving in a recreation area. Prepare documentary support demonstrating the application aligns with one of the purposes in s 18(2), and be prepared to provide environmental or medical documentation if requested (s 18(4)). Be aware the chief executive must refuse approval where significant environmental, cultural or safety harm is likely (s 18(3)).
Follow traffic signs and road rules: Obey signs and markings placed under s 24 and be mindful that certain Queensland Road Rules and road-use provisions apply within recreation areas (ss 19-20). Where an official traffic sign from the Transport Operations Act is present, comply with its indicated instruction (s 24(2), (4)).
Drones, generators and other equipment
Drones: Do not possess or operate drones in drone restriction areas (including camping areas) unless you have a permit, are conducting an emergency or rescue, or the drone is securely stored in a container in or on an aircraft, vehicle or vessel (s 33).
Generators and motors: Use compressors, generators or similar motors on vessels only if the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark and the motor is not connected to devices on land (s 40(2)). If you use a generator for a documented medical device, ensure the generator does not exceed 65 dB(A) measured at 7 m (s 40(3)).
Materials and waste
Fires and plant material: Do not take or use plants from the recreation area for fires unless the plant has been provided by the chief executive or taken with written approval, a permit or a regulatory notice (s 9). Do not deposit non-combustible material in fires (s 37).
Litter: Do not deposit litter you bring into the area unless you have a reasonable excuse (s 34). Where litter bins exist, deposit other litter only in bins and in compliance with regulatory notices; if no bins exist do not deposit litter in the area (s 35). If an authorised officer directs removal of litter, comply (s 36).
Weapons, solicitation and notices
Secure storage of weapons: Keep bows, nets, traps and weapons dismantled and securely stored in a place where they are not easily accessible and out of sight in or on a vehicle or vessel (s 41(2)-(3)).
Solicitation and display of documents: Do not solicit donations/information or display or disseminate notices in a recreation area without the chief executive’s written approval (ss 42-43). Exceptions include official traffic signs and notices required by other laws (s 43(2)).
Record-keeping and reporting for recorded activity permits
Daily recording: Maintain a daily record for each activity authorised under recorded activity permits including description, date, sites visited, number of clients or attendees, number of vehicles if vehicle-based, and number of persons camping where authorised (s 45(1)-(2)). Record information before the end of each day the activity occurs (s 45(2)).
Electronic system and fallback: Keep records in an electronic system (s 46(1)) and ensure records are retrievable, legible and secured against undetected alteration (s 46(3)). If the system is unavailable record in another form on the same day and upload within 24 hours after the system becomes accessible (s 46(2)). Retain records for at least two years after the holder stops conducting activities under the permit (s 46(4)).
Submission and payment: Submit records to the chief executive in the approved form and within the prescribed period (s 47 for commercial activity permits; s 48 for organised event permits). If you request an invoice, the chief executive must provide at least 7 days for payment; otherwise pay activity fees at the time you give the record (s 49).
Fees, waivers and refunds
Application for fee exemption or waiver: If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver or exemption (for example where activities overlap with protected areas or State forests, or for conservation-directed activity), apply before or when you make your permit application using the approved form and provide supporting evidence (ss 61-62). Be aware the chief executive’s power is discretionary (s 62 uses “grant or refuse”) and conditions may be imposed (s 63).
Refunds: If a permit is amended, suspended or surrendered and a refund is appropriate, apply to the chief executive or wait for an initiative refund (s 66). Be aware the chief executive may deduct a published refund processing fee from an applicant’s refund where the applicant applied for the refund (s 66(4)).
Administrative preparation and evidence
Documentation: Keep copies of permits, written approvals, e-tag screenshots, vehicle registration and printed copies of receipts showing fee payments. For conditional or mobility-based approvals keep medical certificates or other corroborating documents available when seeking approval under s 18.
Plan and route evidence: If you rely on “most direct and reasonable route” grounds to transit an area with a dog or to drive directly through Moreton Island Recreation Area, prepare clear mapping and supporting evidence that the route is the only reasonable route (s 7(3), s 18(2)(a)(vii) for conditional vehicle approvals referencing direct route to/from land).
Liaison with the department: Engage early with the department when you anticipate multi‑jurisdictional applications (for example, activities that require permits under the Nature Conservation Act and the regulation) to identify whether s 53 waivers or offsets may be available and to avoid duplicative fees.
Contingency for system outages: Design administrative processes that can produce contemporaneous paper backups when electronic systems are unavailable. Ensure staff are trained to make same-day recordings and to upload within 24 hours as required by s 46(2).
By converting statutory requirements into office routines and checklists,tag issue and display, printed e‑permits, daily electronic records and redundant paper backups, permit and approval templates, evidence for route and environmental impact, and early contact with the department for waiver discussions,permit-holders and commercial operators can materially reduce exposure to the penalties and enforcement mechanisms in the regulation.
For section 7 of the Act , each area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2 continues to be declared to be a recreation area.
A recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2—
has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 1 opposite the description; and
has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 3 opposite the description.
For section 8 of the Act , the area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2 continues to be an amalgamated recreation area.
An amalgamated recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2—
has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 1 opposite the description; and
has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 3 opposite the description.
A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 2 or 3 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
(sec.6-ssec.1) For section 7 of the Act , each area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2 continues to be declared to be a recreation area.
(sec.6-ssec.2) A recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 2— has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 1 opposite the description; and has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 3 opposite the description.
(sec.6-ssec.3) For section 8 of the Act , the area of State land described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2 continues to be an amalgamated recreation area.
(sec.6-ssec.4) An amalgamated recreation area described in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 2— has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 1 opposite the description; and has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 3 opposite the description.
(sec.6-ssec.5) A reference to a plan with the prefix ‘RAMA’ in schedule 1 , part 2 or 3 is a reference to a plan held by, and available for inspection from, the department.
(a) has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 1 opposite the description; and
(b) has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 2 , column 3 opposite the description.
(a) has the name stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 1 opposite the description; and
(b) has the management intent stated in schedule 1 , part 3 , column 3 opposite the description.
pt.3 Animals and plants
Animals and plants
sec.7 Taking animals into recreation areas— Act , s 121
sec.7 Taking animals into recreation areas— Act , s 121
For section 121 (2) of the Act , definition animal , paragraph (d) , this section prescribes ways of taking animals into a recreation area.
A person may take a domesticated animal into a recreation area if—
the animal is on a vessel and remains on the vessel; and
the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark.
Also, a person may take a domesticated dog into the Moreton Island Recreation Area if—
the person is transporting the dog through the area to or from the person’s land; and
the only reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; and
the person is taking the dog through the most direct route to or from the land; and
the dog is being transported—
in an enclosed vehicle; or
on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
the dog does not leave the vehicle or vehicle tray while the dog is in the area.
In this section—
land , of a person, means land that is owned by the person or is the person’s principal place of residence.
(sec.7-ssec.1) For section 121 (2) of the Act , definition animal , paragraph (d) , this section prescribes ways of taking animals into a recreation area.
(sec.7-ssec.2) A person may take a domesticated animal into a recreation area if— the animal is on a vessel and remains on the vessel; and the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark.
(sec.7-ssec.3) Also, a person may take a domesticated dog into the Moreton Island Recreation Area if— the person is transporting the dog through the area to or from the person’s land; and the only reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; and the person is taking the dog through the most direct route to or from the land; and the dog is being transported— in an enclosed vehicle; or on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and the dog does not leave the vehicle or vehicle tray while the dog is in the area.
(sec.7-ssec.4) In this section— land , of a person, means land that is owned by the person or is the person’s principal place of residence.
(a) the animal is on a vessel and remains on the vessel; and
(b) the vessel remains below the low-water mark or afloat between the high-water mark and low-water mark.
(a) the person is transporting the dog through the area to or from the person’s land; and
(b) the only reasonable route to or from the land is through the area; and
(c) the person is taking the dog through the most direct route to or from the land; and
(d) the dog is being transported— (i) in an enclosed vehicle; or (ii) on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
(i) in an enclosed vehicle; or
(ii) on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
(e) the dog does not leave the vehicle or vehicle tray while the dog is in the area.
(i) in an enclosed vehicle; or
(ii) on the tray of a vehicle with the dog securely tethered so as to be confined to the vehicle tray; and
sec.8 Taking plants into recreation areas— Act , s 123
sec.8 Taking plants into recreation areas— Act , s 123
For section 123 (1) (b) (iv) of the Act , a person may take a plant into a recreation area if—
the plant is for consumption by an animal lawfully brought into the area; or
the plant remains securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft while the plant is in the area; or
the person—
is taking the plant to land outside the area; and
the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and
the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and
if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and
if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
Without limiting subsection (1) (b) or (c) (iv) , a plant is securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft if it is kept in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft in a way that ensures that no part of the plant is spread or released into a recreation area, including, for example, by keeping the plant covered at all times in the cabin of the vehicle, vessel or aircraft.
(sec.8-ssec.1) For section 123 (1) (b) (iv) of the Act , a person may take a plant into a recreation area if— the plant is for consumption by an animal lawfully brought into the area; or the plant remains securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft while the plant is in the area; or the person— is taking the plant to land outside the area; and the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
(sec.8-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) (b) or (c) (iv) , a plant is securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft if it is kept in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft in a way that ensures that no part of the plant is spread or released into a recreation area, including, for example, by keeping the plant covered at all times in the cabin of the vehicle, vessel or aircraft.
(a) the plant is for consumption by an animal lawfully brought into the area; or
(b) the plant remains securely stored in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft while the plant is in the area; or
(c) the person— (i) is taking the plant to land outside the area; and (ii) the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and (iii) the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and (iv) if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and (v) if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
(i) is taking the plant to land outside the area; and
(ii) the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and
(iii) the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and
(iv) if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and
(v) if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
(i) is taking the plant to land outside the area; and
(ii) the most direct and reasonable route to the land is through the area; and
(iii) the person owns or occupies the land or is authorised by the owner or occupier of the land to take the plant to the land; and
(iv) if the plant is in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the plant is securely stored in or on the vehicle, vessel or aircraft; and
(v) if the plant is not in or on a vehicle, vessel or aircraft—the person takes all reasonable steps to ensure no part of the plant is spread or released into the area.
sec.9 Plants not to be taken or used for fires
sec.9 Plants not to be taken or used for fires
A person must not take or use a plant from a recreation area to light, keep or use a fire in the area.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply to a plant—
that the chief executive has provided in a recreation area to use for a fire; or
that is taken into a recreation area to use for a fire in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive, a permit or a regulatory notice.
In this section—
plant includes—
timber or a dead plant; and
part of a plant.
(sec.9-ssec.1) A person must not take or use a plant from a recreation area to light, keep or use a fire in the area. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
(sec.9-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to a plant— that the chief executive has provided in a recreation area to use for a fire; or that is taken into a recreation area to use for a fire in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive, a permit or a regulatory notice.
(sec.9-ssec.3) In this section— plant includes— timber or a dead plant; and part of a plant.
(a) that the chief executive has provided in a recreation area to use for a fire; or
(b) that is taken into a recreation area to use for a fire in accordance with a written approval of the chief executive, a permit or a regulatory notice.
(a) timber or a dead plant; and
(b) part of a plant.
pt.4 Camping
Camping
sec.10 Displaying camping tags
sec.10 Displaying camping tags
A person camping under a camping permit must, immediately after the person starts camping, display the camping tag for the permit by attaching it in a conspicuous position to—
a tent, caravan or another structure being used for camping under the permit; or
if no tent, caravan or structure is being used for camping under the permit—a vehicle, vessel or equipment being used for camping under the permit.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
The person must take reasonable steps to ensure the camping tag remains displayed at the camp site where the person is camping while the person is camping under the permit.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.10-ssec.1) A person camping under a camping permit must, immediately after the person starts camping, display the camping tag for the permit by attaching it in a conspicuous position to— a tent, caravan or another structure being used for camping under the permit; or if no tent, caravan or structure is being used for camping under the permit—a vehicle, vessel or equipment being used for camping under the permit. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.10-ssec.2) The person must take reasonable steps to ensure the camping tag remains displayed at the camp site where the person is camping while the person is camping under the permit. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(a) a tent, caravan or another structure being used for camping under the permit; or
(b) if no tent, caravan or structure is being used for camping under the permit—a vehicle
This is an opening excerpt, not the complete document.