Metal Detecting Laws in the United States

Metal detecting laws in the United States vary widely depending on land ownership, state regulations, and federal protections.

Whether you’re searching for modern finds, coins, relics, or hidden treasures, understanding the rules where you detect is essential.

This guide breaks down the national framework for metal detecting laws and provides quick access to state-specific regulations.

Federal Metal Detecting Laws

Metal detecting on federal land is regulated by several agencies—each with its own rules and limitations. These laws apply nationwide and override any state regulations when you are on federal property.

Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA)

ARPA protects archaeological resources that are over 100 years old. Removing, disturbing, or digging for historical artifacts on federal land without a permit is illegal and can carry severe penalties. Even surface finds may be restricted depending on the land agency.

U.S. Forest Service Lands

Metal detecting is generally allowed for casual, non-archaeological use on U.S. Forest Service lands. Digging is permitted as long as you avoid cultural or historic locations. Always check the rules for your specific national forest as some have district-level restrictions.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

Most BLM land allows metal detecting as a recreational activity. However, ARPA still applies, and removing historical artifacts is prohibited. Some BLM sites also contain mining claims where metal detecting may be limited.

National Parks and Protected Historic Areas

Metal detecting is prohibited in all U.S. National Parks, National Monuments, and designated historic sites. This includes beaches, trails, campgrounds, and parking areas inside the park boundary.

General State-Level Metal Detecting Rules

Each state sets its own policies for metal detecting in state parks, wildlife management areas, beaches, and public spaces. While some states are very detector-friendly, others have strict rules, permit requirements, or location-specific bans.

Common state-level rules include:

• State parks may require permits or designate allowed areas
• Historic or archaeological sites are always off-limits
• Many states allow metal detecting on public beaches
• Digging tools may have size restrictions
• Recovered items may need to be reported
• Private land requires landowner permission

Where Metal Detecting Is Allowed

• Beaches and shorelines (state-dependent)
• U.S. Forest Service lands
• Most BLM-managed land
• Some state parks with permission
• City parks where not explicitly prohibited
• Private property with written permission

Where Metal Detecting Is Restricted or Prohibited

• National Parks and National Monuments
• Designated archaeological or cultural sites
• Historic battlefields or protected historic areas
• Native American burial grounds and sacred locations
• Areas marked as “no digging” or “no metal detecting”

State-by-State Metal Detecting Laws

Use the list below to access the metal detecting laws for each U.S. state. These guides include state park regulations, beach rules, digging restrictions, and land ownership considerations.

Browse all state law guides:

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Tips for Staying Legal While Metal Detecting

• Research the land ownership before detecting
• Carry permission slips for private land
• Avoid digging near foundations, ruins, or historic structures
• Follow the “leave no trace” digging and recovery method
• Follow posted signs or park ranger instructions
• Report any found artifacts that may have historical value

Frequently Asked Questions

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