Using a metal detector in Waterton Lakes National Park

Using a metal detector is a popular recreational activity. However, metal detecting is not encouraged in Waterton Lakes National Park because it often results in digging a hole in the ground to recover an item once the operator gets a ‘hit’.

It is illegal to disturb, deface or remove a natural or cultural object from a national park. In national parks, moving rocks, clearing or damaging vegetation, making holes in the ground, etc., are illegal activities (except for burying human waste under a backcountry camping or random camping permit; see leavenotrace.ca).

Holes may not be dug and prehistoric, historic or natural objects may not be removed from Waterton Lakes National Park unless the Superintendent has issued a Restricted Activity Permit or a Research and Collection Permit for the activity.

Regulations

• It is illegal to dig holes or disturb the ground in any way in a national park as per sections 10, 12(1), and 12(2) of the National Parks General Regulations.
• It is illegal to remove or compromise prehistoric or historic artifacts or structures in a national park as per section 14(1) of the National Parks General Regulations.

In addition to these restrictions, all applicable federal regulations apply in Waterton Lakes National Park as do Parks Canada policies and directives related to natural and cultural heritage and matters requiring public and Indigenous consultation.

If you have a valid Research and Collection Permit for Waterton Lakes National Park and would like to use a metal detector as part of your project, please send an email to evaluationdimpactwaterton-watertonimpactassessment@pc.gc.ca.

In your email, tell us the location where you are planning to use the metal detector, the reason for your request and other relevant details. Parks Canada will provide additional guidance and, if appropriate, instructions for the permitting process.