Authorised officers have the power to enter and search land without a warrant when investigating the trade and possession of pest animals. Generally, they may only do this with the consent of the occupier of that land. There is an emergency exception where authorised officers may enter and search land, other than dwellings, without consent. Authorised officers may also stop and search vehicles and boats without a warrant to investigate offences concerning the importing, keeping, trading and releasing of pest animals.

Authorised officers must produce evidence of their department identification before exercising their powers and at any time on request.

It is an offence under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 to obstruct, interfere with or provide false or misleading information to an authorised officer. Penalties will apply.