Detailed instructions on downloading and installing hunting and exclusion zone maps to select GPS devices are available:
Android and Apple smartphone users need to download and install the Avenza .pdf application. Detailed instructions are available:
The Avenza PDF application is not available for smartphones using a Windows-based operating system.
If you have a question about State forest GPS hunting and exclusion zone maps that is not answered here, contact the Game Licensing Unit.
Yes, it is a condition of your written permission for hunting on State forests that you carry a GPS enabled device with the current hunting and exclusion zone maps for the area you are hunting.
You need to also ensure that the device has power and is working at all times while you are hunting.
The hunting and exclusion zone GPS maps are provided in the following formats:
The State forest hunting and exclusion zone maps are produced by the Forestry Corporation of NSW based on their work plans and other land management activities.
The GPS files are provided in the these formats as they are the ones used and provided to the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) by the Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW).
GPS enabled devices running MapSource or Google Earth software are usually compatible with the file formats provided. Contact your local GPS enabled device retailer for specific information on your device.
As a Government Agency, the DPI cannot recommend any particular GPS enabled device brand or model.
You will need a compatible GPS enabled device, and in most cases a blank micro SD card compatible with your GPS unit with at least 1GB of available storage space.
The provided hunting and exclusion zone GPS maps have been produced to work with the following software programs, which may be compatible with a variety of devices:
.gdb files | MapSource or Basecamp |
.kmz files | Google Earth |
.pdf files | Avenza PDF Maps Application |
If you do not have the appropriate hardware or software requirements you should speak to your local GPS enabled device retailer for more information.
You will need data coverage to initially download the .pdf hunting and exclusion zone map. Once the map is downloaded it is stored on your smartphone's memory card.
Avenza PDF Map viewer utilises the stored map and your smartphone's GPS function to orient the map and your position.
You do not require mobile phone reception to run the app or navigate using the map.
Please view the appropriate instruction sheet for the file type, software or device you intend to use
In general, the State forest hunting and exclusion zone maps are updated every quarter (every three months). Files are provided to the Game Licensing Unit from Forestry Corporation of NSW.
In certain situations maps may be changed earlier.
It is recommended that you download the latest State forest hunting and exclusion zone maps from the DPI website and install them onto your GPS enabled device immediately before going hunting.
NSW DPI isn't able to provide technical advice on your GPS, its usage or compatibility.
Further technical advice can be obtained from your GPS enabled device manufacturer, or your local GPS enabled device retailer.