Permits authorising each of the three main salmon farming companies to undertake preliminary assessment work within defined areas of State waters were first granted in 2017. These permits have been issued over consecutive years to enable the collection of observational datasets to establish whether there are suitable locations within the permit areas for the possible marine farming of salmon.

The permit areas are large enough to allow an understanding of the broader environmental systems that affect the much smaller locations where conditions may be found suitable for marine farming.

In the event that suitable sites are identified, the full planning, consultation and approvals process set out in existing marine farming planning legislation would apply to any marine farming development proposal.​​​

Far north-west of Tasmania

The permit has been issued to Petuna Aquaculture Pty Ltd and covers an area of State waters between lines drawn north from Cape Grim and the Nut.

 Far North West of Tasmania Permit Map (PDF 2Mb)

Cape Connella and east of South Bruny Island

The permit has been issued to Huon Aquaculture Company Pty Ltd and covers an area of State waters between lines drawn east from Cape Connella and Boreel Head.

 Cape Connella and East of South Bruny Island Permit Map (PDF 990Kb)

King Island, off east coast

The permit has been issued to Tassal Operations Pty Ltd and covers an area of State waters between lines drawn east from Lavinia Point and Cowper Point.​

 King Island Permit Map (PDF 1Mb)​