Placer Mining in BC

Information and Resources

Suction Dredges

The Answer is almost always "NO"
(except maybe in bedrock canyons)

In general, suction dredges cannot be used in any creek, river or lake in BC. If you are caught using one, it will be confiscated and you may be subject to other penalties.

It is theoretically possible to get permission to use a suction dredge in a closed pond that you have excavated. Any plans for this type of operation should be discussed with an inspector for the mining region and it would be very wise to have some document, for example, a letter from the inspector, stating that you are allowed to use the dredge.

Sniping in Bedrock Canyons

You may apply for a permit to "snipe" (recover nuggets from cracks, holes and other irregularities in bedrock) using a suction dredge in a bedrock canyon.

For more information, see the Guidelines.


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