7)
Use of Metal Detectors
a)
Use of metal detectors, magnetometers or other metal detecting devices is prohibited on all state park lands, including sovereign submerged lands under lease by state parks, except for the following:
(1)
Coastal parks, in a zone between the waterline and toe of the dune, as determined by the Park Manager, except at archaeological sites within the zone designated by DHR or the Park Manager.
(2)
Archaeological research projects authorized by DHR.
(3)
As provided for in Chapter 4, section 28, for the recovery of lost personal items.
b)
Any dug hole associated with the use of a metal detector must be refilled to the contour of pre-dig conditions using the excavated material.
c)
Any excavations within designated archaeological sites require permits from DHR and Bureau of Natural and Cultural Resources. Objects found or recovered under the terms of a permit issued by DHR are property of the State of Florida, with title vested by statute in DHR. Such objects are normally curated by DHR and can be made available by loan to the Division upon request.
Chapter 4 section 28 reads:
28.
LOST AND FOUND ITEMS ^
Metal detectors may be used to recover personal items that are specifically identified by their owner as being lost in a specific area of a park. The owner of lost property or his representative should contact the park manager who will arrange a time for the search to be conducted in the presence of a park staff member. During these searches, only the item sought may be kept by the owner or his representative.
The handling of lost and found items shall be in accordance with DEP Directive 320.
