Lichenaula petulans is a moth in the Xyloryctidae family. It was described by T.P. Lucas in 1900. It is found in Australia, where it has been recorded from Queensland. The wingspan is 13-18 mm. The forewings are slaty grey with silver specks and black dots. The subhindmarginal and hindmarginal black lines are faintly defined. The hindwings are silvery grey, darker diffused toward the hindmargin.