No, metal detecting in Hawaii’s public parks is generally prohibited under the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) rules, which classify it as unauthorized disturbance of state lands. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the City and County of Honolulu, further restrict such activities in urban parks. A 2026 DLNR compliance update explicitly bans metal detecting in all state park systems unless a special permit is secured, aligning with cultural preservation mandates under the Native Hawaiian Rights Act.
Key Regulations for Metal Detecting in Public Parks in Hawaii
- State Park Prohibitions: The DLNR’s Hawaii Administrative Rules §13-225 prohibits metal detecting in state parks, citing preservation of archaeological and cultural resources. Violations may result in fines up to $10,000 or criminal charges under Hawaii Revised Statutes §6E-43.
- County-Level Restrictions: Honolulu’s Revised Ordinances §13-1.2 mirrors state rules, extending bans to city parks. Other counties (Maui, Kauai, Hawaii Island) enforce similar prohibitions via local park management policies.
- Permit Exceptions: Limited permits may be issued for research or educational purposes under DLNR’s Historic Preservation Division, requiring prior archaeological review and Native Hawaiian consultation per HRS §6E-42.