2.22.185 Metal detecting.
A. Metal detecting is permitted in any park during the hours when the park is open as long as the activity does not interfere with reserved sports or activities or city-organized sports or activities or with the enjoyment of the park by other users. Metal detecting is not allowed on athletic fields, municipal golf courses, in ornamental planting areas, on the grounds of historic sites (including the Mary Olson Farm), or in critical areas or their buffers as defined in Chapter 16.10 ACC. Metal detecting in camping areas is permitted only in unoccupied campsites or in a campsite lawfully occupied by the detector.
B. Persons operating metal detectors in parks must:
1. Not make a noticeable impact to park property. Metal must be removed from the ground with minimal sod disturbance. Any holes dug are limited to six inches maximum depth and must be immediately refilled and the surface restored to its earlier condition. Holes in turf must be dug in a “U” shape so that one edge of turf remains connected. The turf flap must be flipped back over when the hole is refilled.
2. Not destroy or disturb park facilities, signs, equipment, natural features, or historical or archeological resources.
3. Not remove any items that appear to have historical or archaeological significance, and report such a find to a department of parks and recreation employee.
4. Only use ice picks, screwdrivers, or probes under two inches in width, and digging implements that do not exceed five inches in width and eight inches in length.
5. Properly dispose of all found or recovered trash and litter.
6. Observe all federal, state, and local laws and regulations while metal detecting.
C. This section does not apply to city employees who are engaged in the performance of their duties, and an individual whose use of a detector has been approved by the director in writing if the individual can produce the written approval during performance of the metal detecting.
D. Violation of this section constitutes a Class 3 civil infraction pursuant to Chapter 7.80 RCW. (Ord. 6917 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023.)