You’ll need to obtain DNR Form 9400-239 before metal detecting on Wisconsin public lands, specifying the lost item you’re searching for. Milwaukee County Parks require separate permits from park management, valid typically May 1–October 15, with restrictions on beaches during designated hours and prohibitions on removing archaeological materials over 50 years old. You must backfill all excavations, carry permits during detection, and avoid recorded archaeological sites without prior approval. Commercial detecting remains prohibited, and non-compliance results in immediate permit revocation. Further guidance clarifies specific boundaries and procedural requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Milwaukee County Parks require permits from park management, valid May 1–October 15, with no extra fee beyond entrance costs.
- DNR Special Permit (Form 9400-239) needed for state lands; must describe lost item and carry permit during detection.
- Detecting prohibited on beaches during designated hours, in waters, rented spaces, buildings, and near archaeological sites without approval.
- All excavations must be backfilled and restored; archaeological materials over 50 years old cannot be removed without approval.
- Private land detection requires landowner permission; commercial detecting activities are prohibited on public lands.
State DNR Permit Requirements for Metal Detecting on Public Lands
Metal detecting on Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources properties operates under strict permitting requirements designed to protect state resources while accommodating legitimate recovery efforts.
You’ll need to obtain a Special Permit (Form 9400-239) from the property office before conducting any detection activities.
Permit application procedures require you to specifically describe the lost personal item you’re seeking—the permit authorizes recovery of that item only.
Historical artifact regulations are particularly stringent: any detection near archaeological or historic sites demands prior approval from the Departmental Archaeologist.
You’re prohibited from commercial detecting activities entirely.
Once issued, you must carry your permit during all operations.
The property office will verify any recovered items against your permit description, retaining anything that doesn’t belong to you.
Since most day-use areas and beaches operate under a carry-out waste policy, plan to remove all trash generated during your metal detecting sessions.
For questions about metal detecting regulations on DNR properties, contact their hotline at 1-888-936-7463, available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Milwaukee County Parks Metal Detecting Policies and Guidelines
Before conducting any metal detection activities within Milwaukee County Parks, you must secure a permit directly from the park management or county parks department. There’s no additional fee beyond standard park entrance fees.
Metal detection in Milwaukee County Parks requires an advance permit from park management with no extra fees beyond standard admission costs.
Your permit defines specific geographic boundaries and time windows—typically early morning or evening hours between May 1 and October 15.
You’re prohibited from detecting in beach areas during designated hours, park waters, rented spaces, and building areas.
Archaeological sites demand special approval and cultural sensitivity.
Equipment maintenance ensures proper digging techniques that preserve park grounds.
You must backfill all excavations and restore sites to original conditions.
Report any recovered items to the property office.
Archaeological materials over 50 years old can’t be removed.
Park management may revoke your permit immediately for ground damage or non-compliance.
The permit must be signed by the property manager before you can begin any metal detecting activities in the approved search area. Activities that risk damage to park grounds may result in permit rescission.
Best Practices and Legal Considerations for Metal Detectorists
Understanding permit requirements at the county level represents only one component of lawful metal detecting in Wisconsin. You must secure landowner permission before detecting on private property to avoid trespassing charges.
Historical sites demand heightened scrutiny—you’re prohibited from removing archaeological materials fifty years or older under state law.
Archaeological protection extends further through ARPA, which bans altering resources without federal permits on public lands.
You’ll maintain your freedom to detect by avoiding recorded archaeological sites unless you’ve obtained DNR archaeologist approval.
Always carry permit form 9400-239 on state property and present recovered items to authorities as required.
Report finds according to permit specifications, retaining only your documented personal items. If you encounter archaeological remains during your detecting activities, you must leave them undisturbed and immediately report the discovery to appropriate authorities.
Check local ordinances governing tools, timeframes, and restricted areas. State parks and recreation departments often establish specific regulations that may vary between different park locations, making it essential to verify permitted activities before beginning your detecting session.
These practices protect both cultural resources and your detecting privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Metal Detect on Milwaukee’s Public Beaches Without a Permit?
Braving beach regulations isn’t always crystal clear. You’ll need to verify permit requirements with Milwaukee County Parks directly, as enforcement occurs despite unclear official rules. Don’t risk getting kicked out—confirm permissions before detecting on public beaches.
What Happens if I Find Valuable Jewelry While Metal Detecting?
You may keep valuable jewelry you find, but jewelry over 100 years old becomes protected historical artifacts on public land. You’ll need written permission on private property. Report finds to authorities and don’t touch century-old items.
Are There Metal Detecting Clubs or Groups in the Milwaukee Area?
You’ll find the Milwaukee Metal Detecting Group operates primarily through Facebook, connecting independent enthusiasts. While formal clubs remain limited, you can participate in local metal detecting events and Milwaukee treasure hunts by joining this community-driven network.
Can I Metal Detect in Winter on Frozen Milwaukee County Land?
No, you can’t metal detect on frozen Milwaukee County land in winter. Winter restrictions apply year-round, and frozen ground conditions don’t exempt you from permit requirements. County parks enforce detecting bans regardless of season or ground conditions.
What Metal Detecting Equipment Is Best for Beginners in Milwaukee?
Launching your treasure hunt? You’ll thrive with Garrett AT PRO or ACE 300 metal detector brands, offering reliable performance across Milwaukee’s varied terrain. Add beginner accessories like headphones and a digger, then explore Wisconsin’s parks with confidence and independence.
References
- https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/doclink/forms/9400-239.pdf
- https://uigdetectors.com/metal-detecting-state-laws-in-usa-part-4/
- https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/nr/001/45.pdf
- https://www.americandetectorist.com/forum/threads/milwaukee-county-parks-permit-required.19817/
- https://metaldetectingforum.com/index.php?threads/new-from-west-milwaukee-wi.100073/
- https://kellycodetectors.com/content/pdf/site_locator_books/WI.pdf
- https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/taxonomy/term/1776?page=6
- https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/taxonomy/term/21?type=topic_content_page&page=11
- https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/taxonomy/term/366?page=597
- https://metaldetectingforum.com/index.php?threads/wisconsins-metal-detecting-rules.118752/
