Metal Detecting in Spokane, Washington: Permits, Parks & Rules

You’ll need a $10 annual permit for Spokane County parks, while city parks eliminated individual permits but require authorization for groups of three or more. Detecting is prohibited at Riverfront Park and Highbridge/Peoples Park, and you’re limited to 3/8″ probes—no shovels allowed. All holes must stay under six inches deep and be immediately restored to original condition, or you’ll face misdemeanor charges and damage liability. Understanding these jurisdictional differences and specific zone restrictions will help you avoid violations while pursuing your hobby legally.

Table of Contents hide

1 Key Takeaways

2 Permit Requirements Across Different Spokane Jurisdictions

3 Where You Can Metal Detect in Spokane Area Parks

4 Digging Regulations and Damage Liability Rules

5 Frequently Asked Questions

5.1 Can I Metal Detect on Private Property in Spokane With Owner Permission?

5.2 What Are the Best Times of Year for Metal Detecting in Spokane?

5.3 Are There Metal Detecting Clubs or Groups in the Spokane Area?

5.4 What Happens to Valuable or Historical Items Found While Metal Detecting?

5.5 Do I Need Liability Insurance for Metal Detecting in Spokane Parks?

6 References

Key Takeaways

County parks require a $10 annual permit; city parks are permit-free for individuals but groups of 3+ need authorization.
Metal detecting is prohibited in Riverfront Park and Highbridge/Peoples Park within Spokane city limits.

Probes must be 3/8″ diameter maximum; shovels and trowels are forbidden in city and county parks.
Holes cannot exceed 6 inches deep and must be refilled immediately with turf completely restored.
Non-compliance results in fines, permit revocation, and potential misdemeanor charges for damage or violations.

Permit Requirements Across Different Spokane Jurisdictions

Metal detecting regulations in Spokane vary considerably depending on whether you’re operating within city limits or unincorporated county areas.

County parks require permits under Ordinance 6.14.040, obtainable at 210 N Havana or by calling (509) 477-4730.

City parks dropped individual permit requirements last year, though groups of three or more still need authorization.

This distinction matters when you’re searching for historical artifacts across different jurisdictions.

Both areas treat detecting as a revocable privilege subject to specific rules.

County regulations restrict probes to 3/8″ diameter screwdrivers, prohibiting shovels and trowels entirely.

City operations fall under Section 12.06A.040 park rules.

Neither jurisdiction grants access to conservation areas or golf courses.

Always secure permission before searching private property, regardless of jurisdiction.

When excavating targets, you must remove metal with minimal sod disturbance to preserve park conditions.

Metal detecting is completely prohibited in Riverfront Park and Highbridge/Peoples Park within city limits.

Contact County Parks at (509) 477-4730 or City Operations at 509.363.5455 for clarification.

Where You Can Metal Detect in Spokane Area Parks

The Spokane area encompasses three distinct park systems with separate metal detecting access policies: Spokane County Parks manages approximately 15,000 acres where you’ll need a $10 annual permit.

City of Spokane parks allow individual detecting without permits. However, groups of three or more require authorization.

Washington State Parks grants access to over 67 designated locations through their online registration system.

Before pursuing historical finds, you must verify geographic boundaries for each jurisdiction. County conservation areas and golf courses remain off-limits regardless of permit status.

Washington State Parks employs algorithmic processes to designate open areas—consult “Your Guide to Metal Detecting in Washington State Parks” for specific locations.

Equipment selection matters less than understanding where you’re authorized to search. When searching in City of Spokane parks, only probes up to 3/8″ diameter are permitted for digging, while shovels and trowels remain prohibited. Office hours are 8-4:30 Monday through Thursday, with limited Friday availability before noon at the Admin office located at 210 N Havana for those applying in person.

Color-coded brochures and posted regulations at individual parks provide definitive guidance, as local rules supersede general policies.

Digging Regulations and Damage Liability Rules

Complete refilling of all excavated soil
Turf replacement meeting park director’s approval standards
Immediate site restoration after each dig
Proper assessment by park operations staff

Failure to comply constitutes a misdemeanor offense subject to fines and permit revocation.

Small contemporary materials may be removed from designated state parks, but you must restore all sites to original condition. Holes dug must be no deeper than 6 inches and must be refilled, restoring the surface to its original condition. Metal detecting is allowed with small holes maximum 5-inch width and 4-inch depth that must be filled with turf replaced.

Contact City of Spokane Park Operations at 509.363.5455 regarding enforcement questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Metal Detect on Private Property in Spokane With Owner Permission?

Yes, you can metal detect on private property in Spokane with owner consent. Private land rights allow this activity without county or city permits, though you must still comply with state archaeological resource laws and document permission.

What Are the Best Times of Year for Metal Detecting in Spokane?

Spring’s thawing ground and fall’s harvest windows release prime detecting opportunities. You’ll find ideal conditions at historical sites during these seasons, though seasonal restrictions don’t legally limit year-round access—winter’s frozen earth presents practical, not regulatory, challenges.

Are There Metal Detecting Clubs or Groups in the Spokane Area?

Yes, you’ll find the Northwest Treasure Hunters Club meeting monthly at Sinto Senior Center. They emphasize metal detecting etiquette and equipment maintenance while fostering independence. Pacific Northwest Treasure Hunters also operates locally, supporting your detecting freedoms.

What Happens to Valuable or Historical Items Found While Metal Detecting?

You must report valuable finds to park authorities within designated timeframes for treasure hunting compliance. Historical items require immediate notification for artifact preservation. Failure to report results in permit revocation, misdemeanor charges, and potential confiscation of your equipment.

Do I Need Liability Insurance for Metal Detecting in Spokane Parks?

No, you don’t need liability insurance for personal metal detecting in Spokane parks. Your metal detecting equipment requires only a permit; however, historical site regulations and potential underground damage remain your responsibility under existing park policies.