Metal Detecting at Hillsborough County parks (county system)
Hillsborough County · Gulf Central · County park
Last verified:
The rules
Hillsborough County Code Ch. 38 has no metal-detector rule, but Sec. 38-23(3) bans digging in or disturbing grass areas and protects plants and natural features unless the Director authorizes it. No permit program exists — call Parks before digging anywhere; bay beach sand (E.G. Simmons, Apollo Beach) is the realistic option.
Permit: Verify with park
📞 Call ahead: 813-829-2626 (confirm the current rule before you go)
Why detect here
Inland/bay county parks around Tampa; no blanket ban but digging is restricted
More spots nearby: Gulf Coast (Naples to Crystal River) · See the full Florida metal detecting laws · federal rules · which detector to buy
Source: Hillsborough County Code Sec. 38-23 + hcfl.gov Rules & Expectations. Verify against the managing authority before detecting.