The law of the search

Metal Detecting and Treasure Laws in Idaho

Mixed
Metal detecting. Most parks with manager OK; dig permit to excavate
Treasure trove and found property. Landowner-primary: treasure on private land is the owner's
Submerged and wrecks. Claims wrecks on submerged lands

Worth knowing

Permitted as non-traditional recreation if no resource harm.

This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. The rules change and vary by county, city, park, and parcel, and federal land carries its own restrictions. Always confirm with the specific land manager or agency before you search, and record and report finds where the law requires it.

See the whole law map

Every state and country tinted by how friendly the rules are, on the live Atlas.
Open the law map
Get the dispatch

The best of the map every week, the newest case files and the legends worth chasing. Free.