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Posted on: 4/16/2014
by: ag08
Cache Standards
CACHE STANDARDS TUTORIAL
PROHIBITED CACHES
This topic is one that often causes some confusion among new members. To be clear: there are no written rules defining what types of caches are acceptable here, but that does not mean anything goes. We do try to focus on Quality caches, but that does not mean we only allow spectacular caches either. The TerraCaching Community attempts to cast aside any preconceived notions that certain types of caches or hiding spots are inherently bad (or good), and instead judges each cache separately on its own merits. As a cache owner, it is your responsibility to ensure the cache is legally placed with the appropriate permission.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
There are a few things to consider when placing and rating caches. Note that a cache does not need to meet all, or even most, of these criteria to be considered a quality cache here.
ASK YOURSELF
- Is the cache in an interesting place to visit?
- Will the cache be fun to hunt?
- Is the container size & camouflage appropriate for the location?
- Is there something unique, clever, or particularly interesting about this cache or the area?
- Are the coordinates well average and accurate?
- Are special physical considerations noted in the cache description so the cache hunter can be properly prepared ahead of time?
THINGS TO AVOID
There are also a few things to try to avoid when placing a cache. Note that a cache that fits any of these criteria isn't necessarily bad either. Some very good caches also meet some of these criteria and still be judged well by the community. As we said above, each cache is judged separately on it's own merits.
AVOID
- Caches in places that are especially unpleasant to visit.
- Cache containers, sizes or camouflage that are grossly inappropriate for the location or environment.
- Caches that fall into disrepair and are ignored or abounded by their owners.
- Caches that are just carbon copies of other caches already available in the area, and lacking in any unique qualities to make them special.
- Caches that are simultaneously listed on other sites. If you want to list it here, archive it there first, move it to a slight different location if possible, and then submit it here. Cross-posting Event Caches, on the other hand, is generally encouraged.
- Illegal cache placements. No matter how many other redeeming values they may have, illegal caches will not be tolerated for any reason.
- Cache contents that reflect poorly on TerraCaching. We're all grown up enough to figure out how to keep from killing ourselves with pocket knives, but other items have undesired effects like starting fire, or attracting bears and other wildlife (fireworks, drugs, food, highly scented or perfumed items, etc.). Don't place items like these in caches, and if you find a cache with an inappropriate item, please remove the item.
Unlike other sites, there are no specific rules here against the cache types listed below. In fact we already have many that the community has accepted. In fact we already have many that the community has accepted. However, the requirement that they be "quality" caches still applies, and the community may hold caches like these to a higher standard than they would otherwise. If you have a cache idea that you haven't been able to post elsewhere and think it might work here, check with your sponsors and local cachers to find out if it will pass muster. You might be surprised.
ALLOWED
- Virtual Caches
- Webcam Caches
- Commercial/Charity Caches
- Caches that promote a social/political/religious agenda
- Locationless Caches
- Cyber Caches
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