Metal Detecting Permit

​​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 pe​rmit at no cost. Permits are valid for one year from date of issuance.

Metal detect​​ing 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 be​​aches

• Schulze Lake Beach, Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Lake​ Byllesby Beach, Lake Byllesby Regional Park​