Echo State Park

Drones & Metal Detecting

Metal Detecting & Drone Use at Echo State Park

Echo State Park allows metal detecting and drone operation under strict guidelines to ensure safety, preserve resources, and comply with Utah State Parks regulations. Both activities require a Special Use Permit issued in advance by park management.

Special Use Permits – Required for Both Activities

To engage in either metal detecting or drone use, you must:

  • Apply for and receive a Special Use Permit prior to the date of activity.
  • Submit a completed waiver form (found at the bottom of this page) to park staff on the day of use
  • Check in with park staff prior to starting the activity

Permits may be denied during high-use periods, if not submitted in a timely manner, in restricted areas, or during sensitive environmental conditions.

Metal Detecting Guidelines

Utah Administrative Code R651-620-2 governs metal detecting in state parks.

Metal detecting is permitted only with an approved Special Use Permit.

  • Prohibited in protected areas, including:
    • Historical or archaeological zones
    • Developed campgrounds or facility areas
    • Environmentally sensitive zones (including certain beach areas)
  • All holes must be completely refilled, and no ground disturbance should remain visible
  • Any items found must be turned in to park staff and placed in the park’s Lost and Found
  • Historic or cultural items may not be kept; removal or possession of such objects violates state law

Note: Failure to comply may result in revocation of your permit or legal penalties.

Drone Use Guidelines

Drone usage in Utah State Parks is regulated under Utah Administrative Code R651-614-3.

All drone use requires a Special Use Permit. Recreational and non-commercial operations are the only activities considered for approval.

Drone users must:

  • Abide by all FAA regulations
  • Avoid flying over people, wildlife, campgrounds, and day-use areas
  • Maintain a visual line of sight at all times
  • Do not fly in high winds or during red flag warnings
  • Turn in any items accidentally located via drone (e.g., lost property) to Lost and Found

Drone use is prohibited in ways that disturb other visitors, violate privacy, or endanger people, property, or wildlife.

Important Reminders

  • Special Use Permits and waiver forms are required and must be turned in to staff on the day of activity
  • Any items found while metal detecting or drone operating must be turned in to Lost and Found
  • Violations may result in fines, removal from the park, or loss of future permit privileges
Metal Detecting Drone Use WaiverDownload