Metal detecting on private land can lead to amazing finds — but you’ve got to get permission first. Here’s how to do it the right way:

1. Pick Your Target Properties Carefully • Look for old homes, farms, fields, or wooded areas — places where people might have lived or traveled long ago. • Use Google Maps, county property records, or just drive around and take notes.

2. Find Out Who Owns the Land • Check the county assessor’s website (most have online maps) to see who owns it. • Sometimes a simple knock on the door works if it’s a house or farm you can easily access.

3. Make a Good First Impression • Dress clean and casual (think jeans and a polo — not dirty camo or all black). • Be polite, smile, and introduce yourself. • Example opener: “Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a local hobbyist metal detectorist. I noticed your property looks really historic, and I was wondering if you might allow me to do a little metal detecting.”

4. Explain What You’re About • Keep it short and friendly. • Mention that you respect property, fill any holes, remove trash, and show anything you find. • Some detectorists offer to split valuable finds or give the owner first choice.

5. Offer References (If You Have Them) • If you’ve detected elsewhere before, mention it. • If you’re new, just emphasize your respect and responsibility.

6. Be Ready for Rejection • Don’t take it personally if someone says no. Thank them anyway. • Stay positive — each “no” brings you closer to a “yes.”

7. Get It in Writing (Optional, But Smart) • For big permissions (like old farms, big fields), you might offer a simple “permission slip” the owner can sign. • It can be as simple as: “I, [Owner’s Name], give [Your Name] permission to metal detect on my property at [Address].”

8. Follow Through Respectfully • Always fill your holes and pick up trash. • Show the property owner anything you find, especially interesting or valuable items. • A small thank-you gift (like a framed photo of the property or a small find) can go a long way.

9. Maintain Relationships • If you find something cool, tell them! • Good relationships can lead to more permissions — friends, neighbors, or even other properties they own.

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Quick Bonus Tips: • Always ask about specific boundaries (“Is it okay near the barn too?”) • Don’t detect near livestock unless you’ve cleared it first. • Bring a trash pouch and remove junk you dig up. • Never bring friends without asking the owner first.

As always, feel free to reach out to us with any questions about which metal detector to buy or any other questions. I'd be glad to help! CONTACT US!