Guide
Research Methods (responsible location finding)
Last reviewed: October 22, 2025
This guide expands on "Finding locations responsibly" without encouraging trespass. Learn open‑source research techniques, satellite/street imagery workflows, practical note‑taking, and what not to publish. The goal: prepare responsibly and protect sensitive places.
Responsible research — brief contract
- Inputs: public records, historical maps, satellite and street imagery, news archives, property databases.
- Outputs: private planning notes, safety checks, access permissions (when possible), and ethical sharing policies.
- Errors: do not rely solely on imagery—field conditions change. Always prioritise safety and legal compliance.
Open‑source research sources
- Historical maps and registries (local archives, libraries, and government land records).
- Newspaper archives and local history articles for site history, hazards, and ownership clues.
- Property and land‑registry lookups to identify owners and contact points for permission.
- Community posts and forum threads—useful context but treat with caution and verify independently.
Satellite & street imagery workflows
- Start wide: use satellite imagery to identify large complexes, access roads, and changes over time (historical imagery tools help).
- Zoom in: check street view for fences, signage, boarded windows, and apparent occupancy.
- Compare dates: older imagery may show decay not present now or vice versa—verify recency.
- Note parking options and approach routes that minimise disruption to residents and traffic.
- Never use imagery to plan forced entry—only to assess safety and lawful access points.
Note‑taking & planning
- Keep private notes: combine sources, hazards observed, and safety checklist for each site.
- Record non‑sensitive waypoints (e.g., "north gate", "service entrance") instead of precise GPS in public logs.
- Plan entry/exit routes, check‑in times, and emergency contacts before visiting.
- Keep a short risk assessment: structural, biological, legal, wildlife, and environmental risks.
What NOT to publish
- Exact coordinates, entry methods, lock types, or gap locations that enable others to gain access.
- Detailed maps of fragile heritage sites, ecologically sensitive locations, or occupied private residences.
- Images that identify neighbouring private properties, occupants, or children.
- Real‑time sharing while visiting—delay posts to reduce attention and vandalism.
If you share, blur sensitive details, strip EXIF location data, and avoid step‑by‑step access instructions. The community's discretion preserves sites and legal access opportunities.
Privacy, ethics & legal caution
- Research publicly available records only. Do not impersonate or deceive to gain private data.
- If you identify an owner and believe a site should be preserved or made safe, consider contacting them or a local heritage body instead of visiting.
- Avoid encouraging trespass by publishing shortcut instructions, gate-cutting tips, or bypass methods.
Quick workflows — safe reconnaissance
- Remote check: satellite imagery -> street view -> historical records.
- Local context: news archives and community posts for hazards or recent activity.
- Permission check: land registry and publicly listed contact points; ask before visiting when feasible.
- Field visit: daylight, buddy system, discrete parking, minimal footprint, and private notes only.
Responsible research keeps places safer. Use the information here to plan responsibly, reduce harm, and preserve access for others.