Metal Detecting on Public Property

When just starting out metal detecting I would suggest to first try out your new detector in your own backyard.  This will allow you to dig holes and learn the proper way of filling the holes back in.  Another reasons to first start out in your backyard is because it is at your house (no driving far away) and who knows you might find some great things!  You should take this time getting familiar with your new detector.  I would suggest even creating a test bed (instructions in a future post) to determine the depth, sounds and sensitivity of your new machine.  However, if you don't have a backyard or you want to venture out to find the real treasure the next obvious place to hunt is public property.

Before you go to your local park or beach you MUST first contact the local county/city/state organizations park and recreation division to find out if a permit is needed or if metal detecting is even allowed on the public property you want to hunt.  You can probably find the information on the organization's website or at least a phone number you can call for more information.  If all else fails, contact the local police department and kindly ask them the laws about metal detecting the public property in question.  Public property is hunted by every type of metal detector hobbyist and should also be part of the places that you hunt!  If you have any other tips or suggestions on how to gain permission to detect on public property please leave your comments in the section below.