Getting permission is the most important skill in metal detecting. The best sites are on private property, and a simple, professional permission request opens doors that stay closed to others. With the right approach, you’ll have more detecting spots than you can handle.
This guide includes proven permission letter templates and tips for building landowner relationships.
Why Written Permission Matters
- Legal protection: Verbal permission can be disputed; written permission protects you
- Professionalism: Shows you’re serious about the hobby
- Clear expectations: Both parties understand the agreement
- Landowner comfort: Many people prefer having documentation
- Repeat access: Written agreements can include future visits
Metal Detecting Permission Letter Template
METAL DETECTING PERMISSION AGREEMENT
Date: _________________
Property Owner: _______________________________________
Property Address: _______________________________________
Metal Detectorist: _______________________________________
Contact Phone: _______________________________________
Email: _______________________________________
I, _______________________________ (property owner), hereby grant permission to _______________________________ (detectorist) to metal detect on my property at the above address.
Terms and Conditions:
- The detectorist agrees to fill all holes completely and leave the property as found.
- The detectorist will show respect for all landscaping, crops, and structures.
- Any artifacts of significant historical value will be shown to the property owner, who has right of first refusal.
- The detectorist carries their own liability insurance and releases the property owner from any injury claims.
- Permission may be revoked at any time by either party.
Permission valid: ☐ One-time visit ☐ Ongoing access until revoked
Property Owner Signature: _______________________________________
Date: _________________
Detectorist Signature: _______________________________________
Date: _________________
Simple Permission Letter (For Mailing)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Dear Property Owner,
My name is [Your Name], and I am a metal detecting hobbyist in [your town/area]. I’m writing to request permission to metal detect on your property at [property address].
Metal detecting is a hobby that combines outdoor exercise with historical discovery. I search for old coins, buttons, and other artifacts that tell the story of the people who lived on the land before us.
If you grant permission, I promise to:
- Fill all holes completely and neatly
- Respect all landscaping, gardens, and structures
- Remove any trash I find
- Show you anything interesting I discover
- Detect only during reasonable daylight hours
- Carry liability insurance
Many landowners are curious about what’s on their property. I’d be happy to share photos of any finds and give you first option on anything of interest.
If you’d like to discuss this further, please feel free to call or email me. I’m happy to meet in person to answer any questions.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Getting Permission
In-Person Requests (Best Success Rate)
- Dress neatly: First impressions matter
- Visit during reasonable hours: Mid-morning or early afternoon on weekends
- Bring a finds pouch: Show examples of what you’ve found elsewhere
- Be honest about the hobby: Explain what you’re looking for and why
- Emphasize respect: Fill holes, remove trash, leave no trace
- Offer to share: First refusal on anything valuable or interesting
- Leave your card: If they need time to decide
What to Say (Script)
“Hi, my name is [Name]. I’m a metal detecting hobbyist, and I noticed your property has some history. I was wondering if you’d allow me to metal detect here sometime. I always fill my holes, remove any trash I find, and I’d be happy to show you anything interesting I discover. Would you be open to that?”
Common Objections and Responses
| Objection | Response |
|---|---|
| “I don’t want holes in my yard” | “I use a special technique that cuts a plug. The grass folds back perfectly—you won’t be able to tell I was here.” |
| “What if you find something valuable?” | “Anything valuable or historically significant, I’ll show you first. You have first option on anything you want to keep.” |
| “I’m worried about liability” | “I carry my own insurance and will sign a waiver releasing you from any liability.” |
| “Let me think about it” | “Of course! Here’s my card. Feel free to call with any questions.” |
Building Long-Term Relationships
After You Detect
- Send a thank-you note: Old-fashioned but effective
- Share photos of finds: People love seeing what was on their land
- Return interesting items: A button from their great-grandfather’s era? Gift it.
- Offer to help: Some detectorists help landowners find lost items
- Respect boundaries: Only detect where permitted
Maintaining Permissions
- Check in before returning to properties
- Report any concerns (found septic lines, old wells, etc.)
- Don’t overstay your welcome—leave them wanting more
- Refer other respectful detectorists if asked
Places That Usually Grant Permission
- Farms: Farmers often allow detecting in fields after harvest
- Churches: Many welcome help finding lost items
- Historical societies: Sometimes partner with detectorists
- Private campgrounds: Off-season detecting often allowed
- Old estates: Property managers may grant access
Where NOT to Detect (Even With Permission)
- Federal land: Generally prohibited without permits
- State parks: Most prohibit detecting
- Archaeological sites: Protected by ARPA
- Native American lands: Strict protections apply
- National forests: Check specific regulations
Always research local laws before detecting anywhere.
Download and Print
Feel free to copy and modify the templates above for your own use. Print several copies to keep in your detecting bag—you never know when you’ll spot a great property.
Good luck getting permission! Share your success stories in the comments.
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