The short answer
What are the essential treasure-hunt rules?
Search only while the case is open, between 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM, in areas currently marked open. Respect private property, closures, people, wildlife, and the land. Do not dig or damage anything.
Retrieving the current rules version…
The current rules version is unavailable. Use the participation basics below conservatively, check the official updates page, and do not enter an area unless its access is clearly marked open.
Always-visible safety summary
Participation basics
Time
9:00 AM–8:00 PM
Those are the published daily search hours while the official case status is open. Stop searching during a pause or after the case is found.
Access
Open means open
Search only approved open areas. Restricted, hazardous, temporarily closed, unreviewed, residential, and signed private areas are off limits.
Ground
Leave no trace
Do not dig, cut trees or vegetation, light fires, move structures, disturb guests or animals, or use trucks, excavators, or aircraft.
Parking
Use designated areas
Park only where the current route identifies public or approved parking. Keep roads, driveways, emergency routes, and campsite access clear.
Finds
Document privately
Photograph a possible find where it is, record the nearest waypoint, and use the private report form. Do not post the exact location publicly.
Cost and conduct
Free, respectful participation
No purchase is required. Follow operator directions and applicable laws, supervise minors, and leave immediately if a location feels unsafe.
Map and waypoint labels
How to read access states
Open
Approved for searching during published hours, subject to current instructions.
◆ Open
Restricted
Do not enter or search. The boundary may protect private, residential, or operational space.
╳ Restricted
Hazardous
A known hazard is present. Stay out unless a specifically marked safe approach says otherwise.
▲ Hazardous
Temporarily closed
Access is suspended. Check official updates before returning.
■ Closed