1.
I will always check federal, state, county, city, and local laws before searching.
It is my responsibility to know the law.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse.
Check with local police or park rangers for existing laws.
Do not assume you can detect just because there is not a sign that says you cannot.
2.
I will respect private property, and will not enter private property without permission from the owner.
Where possible, such permission will be in writing.
Whenever detecting on private property, always get permission.
Be respectful when you ask and do not get discouraged if you are told no.
You can ask in person, on the phone or in writing.
In person works the best.
3.
I will take care to refill any holes, and try to the best of my ability not to leave any damage.
You want to make the area you hunted look like it was never touched.
Cut your plugs or flaps carefully, refill the dirt, and ensure that the hunted area is clean.
This can take some time to learn, so practice in your own yard.
4.
I will remove and dispose of any and all trash and litter that I find.
You will find trash.
That is a given.
Bring a plastic bag or store the trash in your pouch.
You want to leave the area cleaner than when you arrived.
5.
I will appreciate and protect our inheritance of natural resources, wildlife, and private property.
Use common sense and do not destroy anything that future generations will want to see.
Do not endanger any animals and respect private property.
6.
I will, as an ambassador for the hobby, use thoughtfulness and courtesy at all times.
Many times you will be stopped and asked what you are doing.
Be respectful in your answer, smile, and give a small demonstration.
This can be painful at times when small children are around.
But, use the time to explain what you do and how you also clean up the area.
7.
I will leave gates and entryways as found.
Be mindful of you surroundings and leave things the way you found them.
Be careful not to damage any property.
8.
I will build fires in designated or safe places only.
If you hunt in an area where open fires are allowed, follow the rules for safe fires.
Ensure that you are authorized.
9.
I will report to the proper authorities, any individuals who enter, and/or remove artifacts from federal parks or state preserves.
Check your local laws on what is an artifact.
If you are not sure of the age of one of your discoveries, submit it to the authorities and let them make a determination.
History must be preserved.
10.
I will give assistance to state or local authorities if called upon to do so, to the best of my ability.
There may be times when you can assist the local police with your metal detector.
Always offer to help.
11.
I will use sound judgment and respect as to where and when I hunt.
Again, common sense should prevail when metal detecting.
Treat the land as if it were yours.
This is not an all-inclusive list.
I could also add that it is a good idea to try to return lost items to the original owners or their family and a few others.
But, this is a fairly good list of what to do and what not to do.
Remember, there are people out there that see us and think that we are the weird guy in the park with that funny looking machine.
We need to educate people and let the know that we are the good guys.