Check before you sweep

Can I metal detect here?

Search official-source summaries for public parks, beaches, and park systems. See whether detecting is allowed, whether you need permission, and which restrictions apply.

12 researched records in Michigan and Ohio.

Research records: 12
Properties with their own pages: 5
Additional covered properties: 21
States covered: 2

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Every answer links to the official source and shows when it was last checked.

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Search by park, beach, state, land manager, or covered property. Each record gives the answer, the important limits, and the official source.

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Great Lakes coverage

Michigan and Ohio records

Browse 12 research records covering state parks, park systems, public beaches, permits, and location-specific limits.

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Michigan · State parkAllowed with restrictions

Algonac State Park

Metal detecting is limited to the red-shaded areas on DNR’s currently linked Algonac map. Only registered campers may metal detect in campground areas. All other areas are closed unless the unit supervisor or manager gives written authorization.

Only registered campers may metal detect in campgrounds.

Caution: The currently linked map is dated March 2004.

Permission: The mapped red-shaded areas are open under the current property guidance. Written authorization is required elsewhere.
Source checks: Source checks through September 22, 2026
AI source audit: Source-supported with limitations

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Ohio · Metropark systemAllowed with restrictions

Cleveland Metroparks

No permit is required. Outside beach areas, detecting is surface-only with no digging. Detecting on the named sandy beaches is limited to October 1–May 15, with hole-depth and restoration conditions.

Permission: No separate authorization is stated for the listed scope.
Source checks: Source checks through September 22, 2026

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Ohio · Public beachAllowed with restrictions

Edgewater Beach

No permit is required for Edgewater’s sandy beach during the October 1–May 15 detecting season. Holes must be no deeper than 12 inches and filled immediately.

Permission: No separate authorization is stated for the listed scope.
Source checks: Source checks through September 22, 2026

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Michigan · State parkPermit required

Flint State Park

A permit is required before metal detecting at Flint State Park; confirm the current process before visiting.

Caution: Complete public detector-permit terms are not available.

Permission: Authorization is required before detector use throughout the stated scope.
Source checks: Source checks through September 22, 2026
AI source audit: Source-supported with limitations

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