Own A Metal Detector? It May Be Illegal In Arizona!

Arizona is a land full of history and oddities. From fossils to ancient tools, the secrets of the state are buried under layers and layers of sand, dirt and rock.

Many may have the interest to go and seek out these treasures hidden beneath the state's surface, but is it entirely legal?

Is Metal Detecting Illegal in Arizona?

Well, yes and no. While the practice of using a metal detector is not entirely illegal in the state of Arizona, there are certain boundaries you are expected to follow. For many areas of the state, you're allowed to metal detect as you please, looking for precious metals or ancient artifacts.

This changes, however, in certain areas like National and State parks, in which the practice is entirely prohibited. The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation area is also specifically off-limits, especially for rockhounding (the practice of looking for rocks, minerals, and gemstones).

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Why Are Certain Areas Restricted?

Initially, you may think this is just government oversight protecting its land, but it goes far deeper than that. These areas are off limits because they are deemed either ecologically or culturally important, and as such, should not be desecrated.

These areas are vastly important to keeping Mother Earth happy. National, State and Conservation parks are meant to be a picturesque reminder of our planet before human intervention, and metal detecting is, you guessed it, human intervention.

So when you do head out to search for treasures in the Arizona sprawl, make sure you know where you're going, and proceed with caution.

[Bureau of Land Management][Arizona State Parks]