This map covers the following city parks in Idaho’s Treasure Valley area: Boise, Garden City, Meridian, Kuna, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Star, Middleton, Emmett, Mountain Home, Homedale, Marsing, And Melba.
Metal Detecting Permit Guide – Treasure Valley Idaho Parks
Metal Detecting Permits & Rules by City
Before you grab your detector and head to a Treasure Valley park, make sure you know the rules! Each city in the valley handles metal detecting a little differently — some require a permit, some don’t, and some smaller towns don’t have a published policy at all. Below is everything we’ve been able to confirm, along with contact information for the cities where you’ll want to call ahead to be sure.
Cities With Confirmed Policies
Boise — A metal detecting permit is required for all City of Boise parks and facilities. The permit currently costs $13 and can be purchased online through the City of Boise Parks and Recreation website or by phone at (208) 608-7600. Once purchased online, you’ll receive an application by email that you fill out and submit; the physical permit will then be mailed to you. Be aware that Boise has strict retrieval rules: the only digging tool allowed is a flathead screwdriver no more than ¼” in diameter and 8″ long, and your permit must be worn visibly at all times while detecting. Metal detecting on Boise school properties is not permitted. For more details, visit the City of Boise Metal Detecting Permit page.
Meridian — Great news here: there is no cost and no permit needed for metal detecting in Meridian’s city parks. However, there are rules you must follow. Detectorists must not interfere with reserved park activities, organized sporting events, or other park uses. You must not disturb sprinkler heads, pipes, irrigation system components, or any other infrastructure above or below the ground. Only probes shorter than 8″ and ¼” across may be used to dig — no knives, trowels, or other sharp implements. You can only access areas open to the general public. Anyone who damages city property, whether intentionally or accidentally, may be held responsible for repair or replacement costs. Contact Meridian Parks & Recreation at (208) 888-3579 with any questions.
Cities With a Free Permit or Card (Get It In Person)
Mountain Home — A permit is required to metal detect in Mountain Home city parks, but the good news is there is no fee for the permit. You can obtain one from the City of Mountain Home Department of Parks and Recreation. Note that metal detecting within a cemetery or on a golf course is specifically prohibited and will result in an infraction. Contact Mountain Home Parks & Recreation at (208) 587-2112 for permit details.
Nampa — There is no fee. You need to stop by the Nampa Parks & Recreation office in person, fill out a form, and they’ll give you a card/badge to carry while detecting. The office is open Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Questions? Call the Nampa Parks & Recreation Administrative Office at (208) 468-5858 or the Parks Department at (208) 468-5890.
Garden City — Same as Nampa: no fee, but you need to go to Garden City City Hall in person to get your permit/card. City Hall is open Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Questions? Contact Garden City City Hall at (208) 472-2900.
Cities With No Permit Required
The following cities do not require a permit or card for metal detecting in city parks. Standard rules apply: don’t make large holes, don’t make a mess, and leave no trace—fill your holes and replace turf. When in doubt, a quick call can confirm.
Caldwell — No permit required. Contact Caldwell Parks & Recreation at (208) 455-3060 or the Recreation Superintendent at (208) 455-4780 if you have questions.
Eagle — No permit required for city parks. Note that Eagle Island State Park is an Idaho state park with its own rules (state parks may authorize metal detecting at the park manager’s discretion). For city park questions, contact Eagle City Hall at (208) 939-6813.
Star — No permit required. Contact Star Parks & Maintenance at (208) 286-7247 if you have questions.
Kuna — No permit required. Contact Kuna Parks & Recreation at (208) 629-8861 if you have questions.
Middleton — No permit required. Contact the Greater Middleton Parks & Recreation District at (208) 258-1351 or the City of Middleton Parks & Pathways at (208) 585-3133 if you have questions.
Emmett — No permit required. Contact Emmett Public Works at (208) 365-9569 or Emmett City Hall at (208) 365-6050 if you have questions.
Homedale — No permit required. Contact Homedale City Hall at (208) 337-4641 if you have questions.
Marsing — No permit required. Contact Marsing City Hall at (208) 896-4122 if you have questions.
Melba — No permit required. Contact Melba City Hall at (208) 495-2722 if you have questions.
General Tips
- Idaho State Parks: Under Idaho Administrative Rules, metal detecting is classified as a “non-traditional recreational activity” and may be authorized by the individual park or program manager on a case-by-case basis. Always check with the specific state park before detecting.
- Federal/BLM Land: Recreational metal detecting (searching for lost coins, jewelry, etc.) in developed campgrounds, swimming areas, and picnic areas on National Forest land generally requires no permit. However, you must not disturb any archaeological or historical resources, and all other federal laws (including the Archaeological Resources Protection Act) still apply.
- Always fill your holes: Regardless of which city you’re in, always leave the ground the way you found it. Use proper plug techniques, fill your holes, and replace the turf. This keeps parks looking great and keeps the hobby open for everyone.
- When in doubt, call first: A quick phone call to the local parks department before you detect can save you from a potential fine or confrontation. Most city staff are happy to help clarify the rules.
Last updated: February 2026. Permit fees and policies can change — always verify with the city directly before heading out.
Exploring the Treasure Valley’s Hidden Gems: Parks in Idaho’s Most Scenic Cities
Located in the heart of Idaho, the Treasure Valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant communities, and an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities.
This region, which includes cities like Boise, Garden City, Meridian, Kuna, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Star, Middleton, Emmett, Mountain Home, Homedale, Marsing, and Melba, offers a diverse array of parks that cater to every interest and age group.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure-seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the Treasure Valley’s parks are a must-visit destination.
Boise: The Heart of the Treasure Valley
Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is home to over 100 parks and natural areas, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most notable parks include:
- Ann Morrison Park: Spanning 153 acres along the Boise River, this park features a sand volleyball court, outdoor gym, disc golf course, and a 5.4-acre off-leash dog park.
- Eagle Rock Park & Castle Rock Reserve: Known for its historical significance and natural beauty, this park offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views.
- Esther Simplot Park: A 55-acre wetlands habitat with ponds for swimming and fishing, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Boise’s parks are not only beautiful but also serve as hubs for community events and activities, making them integral to the city’s vibrant culture.
Boise’s parks are not only beautiful but also serve as hubs for community events and activities. The city’s vibrant cultural scene is reflected in its parks, where you might find outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, or art installations.
For instance, Julia Davis Park hosts the Boise Art Museum and the Idaho State Historical Museum, making it a cultural hotspot in the heart of the city. This blend of nature and culture makes Boise’s parks a must-visit for anyone exploring the Treasure Valley.
Meridian: A Hub for Family Fun
Meridian, one of the fastest-growing cities in Idaho, boasts an impressive array of parks designed to cater to families and sports enthusiasts. Discovery Park is a standout, offering pickleball courts, basketball courts, tennis and bocce courts, and a skate park. This 77-acre park is a regional gem, providing ample space for recreation and community events.
Meridian’s parks are designed with families in mind, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all ages. Settlers Park is a standout, featuring playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas that make it an ideal spot for family gatherings.
The city’s focus on community recreation is evident in its well-maintained facilities and organized events, such as sports tournaments and summer camps. This emphasis on family-friendly activities has made Meridian a popular choice for families looking to settle in the Treasure Valley.
Nampa: A Blend of Nature and Recreation
Nampa, known for its rich history and natural beauty, features parks like Lakeview Park, which offers a swimming pool, rose garden, and playgrounds. Lions Park is another favorite, with its skate park, basketball courts, and picnic areas, making it a lively spot for community events.
Nampa’s parks offer a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Lakeview Park, with its serene lake and walking trails, provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Meanwhile, Lions Park is a hub for sports enthusiasts, featuring basketball courts and a skate park that attract visitors from across the region. This mix of relaxation and activity makes Nampa’s parks appealing to a wide range of interests.
Garden City: Urban Biodiversity at Its Best
Garden City is home to The Park at Expo Idaho, an 88-acre riverside park that combines urban biodiversity with active recreation. This park is a model for sustainable design, featuring wetland habitats and flood storage, while providing spaces for play, community, and learning.
Garden City’s parks are a testament to innovative urban planning, combining natural habitats with recreational spaces. The Park at Expo Idaho is a prime example, featuring wetland habitats and flood storage while providing areas for play and community events.
This park showcases how urban spaces can be transformed into thriving ecosystems, making Garden City a leader in sustainable park design.
Eagle: Where Nature Meets Community
Eagle, with its picturesque landscape, offers parks like Eagle Island State Park and the Ada / Eagle Sports Complex, which includes a skate park and bike trails. The Eagle Arboretum is a must-visit for its diverse plantings and serene atmosphere.
Eagle’s parks are renowned for their natural beauty and community spirit. Eagle Island State Park offers a tranquil escape with its scenic views and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The city’s parks also host numerous community events, such as festivals and parades, which bring residents together and foster a sense of community.
This blend of nature and community engagement makes Eagle a charming destination in the Treasure Valley.
Kuna: A Hidden Gem
Kuna, though smaller, has its own charm with parks like Kuna City Park, offering spaces for recreation and community gatherings.
Kuna, though smaller, has its own charm with parks like Kuna City Park, which serves as a central gathering place for community events and outdoor activities. The city’s focus on preserving open spaces ensures that residents have ample opportunities to enjoy nature and connect with their community. Kuna’s parks may be smaller in scale, but they play a significant role in the city’s quality of life.
Caldwell: A City of Parks and Recreation
Caldwell, known for its agricultural heritage, features a variety of parks that provide recreational opportunities and scenic views. While specific details may vary, Caldwell’s parks are integral to its community life.
Caldwell’s parks are integral to its community life, offering a variety of recreational activities and scenic views. While specific details may vary, Caldwell’s parks are known for their well-maintained facilities and organized events, making them a hub for local activity.
The city’s emphasis on parks and recreation reflects its commitment to providing residents with healthy and enjoyable lifestyles.
Star: Expanding Recreational Opportunities
Star is enhancing its outdoor spaces with upgrades to the Star River Walk, including a disc golf course, picnic areas, and ADA-approved pathways. This expansion aims to connect residents with the Boise River Greenbelt, offering a seamless outdoor experience.
Star is enhancing its outdoor spaces with upgrades to the Star River Walk, which includes a disc golf course and picnic areas. This expansion aims to connect residents with the Boise River Greenbelt, offering a seamless outdoor experience that combines recreation with natural beauty.
As Star continues to grow, its parks are becoming increasingly important for both residents and visitors.
Middleton, Emmett, Mountain Home, Homedale, Marsing, and Melba
These smaller towns in the Treasure Valley each contribute their unique charm to the region’s park system. From scenic views to community spaces, they offer a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities that are quintessential to the Treasure Valley experience.
These smaller towns in the Treasure Valley each contribute their unique charm to the region’s park system. From scenic views to community spaces, they offer a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities that are quintessential to the Treasure Valley experience.
Whether it’s a quiet afternoon in a local park or a community event, these towns provide a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit.
As a Final Thought
The Treasure Valley in Idaho is a haven for those who love the outdoors. With its diverse range of parks, each city offers something unique, whether it’s the vibrant community events in Boise, the family-friendly spaces in Meridian, or the natural beauty of Eagle.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, exploring these parks is a great way to experience the best of Idaho’s Treasure Valley.