Metal detecting laws, verified & up to date

Metal Detecting at St. Simons Island — East Beach & Coast Guard Beach

Glynn County · Coast · City/County beach

🟠 Limited

Last verified:

The rules

Glynn County's beach code doesn't ban detecting, but Sec. 2-11-3 makes it unlawful to dig, excavate or remove anything in a county park, historic site or recreational area without a permit — which can reach the county park zones at Coast Guard Park and Massengale. Dunes are state-protected.

Permit: Verify with county

📞 Call ahead: 912-279-2836 (confirm the current rule before you go)

Why detect here

Popular St. Simons swimming beaches (East Beach/Massengale, Coast Guard) — target-rich sand

Beach detecting here? You want a saltwater-capable machine and a long-handled sand scoop. The Nokta Legend 2 is the best value that handles wet salt sand. See the Nokta Legend 2 →


Source: Glynn County Code of Ordinances, Ch. 2-11 (Parks & Recreation). Verify against the managing authority before detecting.