How to Set Up GriefDefender on Your Minecraft Server

Learn how to install and configure GriefDefender for advanced land claiming and grief protection.

GriefDefender is a powerful land claim and anti-grief plugin that lets players protect their builds. It supports both Bukkit/Sponge and offers more features than GriefPrevention.

Installing GriefDefender

Download GriefDefender

Get the latest version from GriefDefender on SpigotMC or the official GitHub releases.

Upload the plugin

Go to Plugins on the XGamingServer panel or upload the .jar file to your /plugins/ folder via Files.

Restart the server

Restart from the Console to generate config files.

Configure claim settings

Edit /plugins/GriefDefender/global.conf via Files:

claim {
  # Minimum blocks between claims
  minimum-claim-size = 100
  # Starting claim blocks per player
  initial-claim-blocks = 1000
  # Claim blocks earned per hour of play
  blocks-accrued-per-hour = 100
}

Set up permissions

GriefDefender uses LuckPerms for permissions. Key permissions:

PermissionDescription
griefdefender.user.claim.create.basicCreate basic claims
griefdefender.user.claim.create.subdivisionCreate subdivisions
griefdefender.admin.claim.create.adminCreate admin claims
griefdefender.user.claim.listList own claims

Using GriefDefender

Creating Claims

Players can create claims using:

  • Golden Shovel — Right-click two corners to define a claim area
  • /gd claim — Claim the area around you
  • /gd mode basic — Switch to basic claim mode

Managing Claims

CommandDescription
/gd claim infoView current claim details
/gd claim listList all your claims
/gd trust player <name>Trust a player in your claim
/gd untrust player <name>Remove trust from a player
/gd abandon claimAbandon current claim

Trust Levels

GriefDefender has multiple trust levels:

  • Accessor — Can interact with buttons, levers, doors
  • Container — Can access chests and inventories
  • Builder — Can place and break blocks
  • Manager — Can modify claim settings and trust others

💡 Tip: GriefDefender integrates with LuckPerms for advanced permission management. Set up LuckPerms first for the best experience.

📝 Note: GriefDefender Premium offers additional features like tax systems, rent, and advanced flags. The free version covers basic claiming needs.

See also: WorldGuard | LuckPerms

If you need help, join our Discord.

How is this guide?

40% Off — Limited TimeGet your Minecraft server todayInstant setup, DDoS protection, and 24/7 support included.
Get a Server

On this page