Metal detecting uses an electronic device to find metal objects just below the ground. Dakota County Parks allows metal detecting only at designated swimming beaches. A permit is required.
Getting a permit
Apply for an annual permit at no cost. Permits are valid for one year from date of issuance.
Metal detecting rules
- A metal detecting permit required. Permit holders must follow all park rules as listed in
Dakota County Ordinance 107 Park Use. Must honor all posted signage. - Metal detecting is permitted in the sand of designated swimming beach areas only. Not allowed in all other park and greenway areas.
- The permit holder must keep a distance of 20 feet from any park user or wildlife. Detecting should stop or move to other areas when other park users begin congregating.
- Metal detecting must not interfere with a park programming, activities or beach use. Beach areas may close due to construction, special events, maintenance, etc.
- Digging is allowed. Limit hole depth to 6 inches and immediately refill. All uncovered trash must be disposed of properly.
- Only use probes and small diggers less than 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. No sharp objects.
- Permit holder must carry valid permit while metal detecting. Permit is valid for one year.
- Rule violations may result in permit revocation, county ordinance citation or both.
Designated swimming beaches