Metal detecting in Prescott Valley, Arizona

Yes, with conditions

City rule · Checked 27 September 2026

1. What the city publishes

Gold panning and metal detecting may continue within the boundaries of Fain Park, so long as such activity is limited to – a. use of gold pans, metal detectors, and hand tools such as picks and shovels [use of motorized or mechanical equipment or mining aids … is prohibited]; b. excavations made below the high water mark of the stream channel that do not damage or disturb root systems of live vegetation and are filled in before the [end of the activity]

Source: codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/prescottvalleyaz/latest/prescottvalley_a

2. The state rule also applies

Arizona State Parks does not allow it, as published policy. There is no regulation behind that – the state's park rules contain no metal detecting provision at all.

Metal detecting rules in Arizona →

3. County rules

Awaiting review.

Scroll to Top