You must obtain permission from the landowner before using a metal detector. This includes land to which the public have rights of access such as beaches, footpaths, or council-owned land. Under UK law there is no such thing as “finders keepers”.
Do you need permission to metal detect on public footpaths?
If you have found a public footpath you think could be a good place to metal detect then you will need to find the land owner to ask for permission. Footpaths are a great place to metal detect though, as for many years people have been walking up and down them and perhaps taking their dogs for walks along them.
Where can I metal detect without permission UK?
By the way, in the UK don't need a licence to use a metal detector, but there are laws about their use. Using a metal detector is illegal on private land without permission from the owner. It is also illegal on a scheduled ancient monument or in an area of archaeological importance.
Can you metal detect on common land UK?
UK DETECTOR NET - Where CAN I use my detector? Where can I Use a Detector? If you wish to metal-detect on land which is not your own, you must get permission from the landowner before you do so. If you metal-detect on land without consent, you may be charged with a criminal offence and you could be sued for damages.
Where can you metal detect legally UK?
A similar law exists in Scotland. In England and Wales, you need permission from the landowner to go metal-detecting, unless the site is historically protected, in which case all metal-detecting is illegal.
37 related questions foundCan you metal detect on council land?
The council does not permit metal detecting on council land.
Can I metal detect in rivers UK?
The answer to our original question is yes, you can metal detect in rivers, and you absolutely should! It's an excellent place to go metal detecting, especially in June and July. If you want to explore some rivers, you of course need to get a waterproof metal detector.
Do you need a Licence to metal detect?
Do you need a license to use a metal detector? No, the Home Office scrapped licenses in 1980. However it is now required on some beaches that a permit be obtained.
Can I metal detect on the beach UK?
On most beaches in the UK, you can metal detect on freely, providing you have a permit. Councils or the crown owns most beaches in the UK. You can apply for a permit directly through them, which will allow you to use your metal detector.
Can you metal detect in Sherwood Forest?
Recently, a metal detecting newbie had an amazing find just 20 minutes after beginning to metal detect in Sherwood Forest. He discovered a golden ring, though to be from the 14th century, which may be worth up to £70,000.
Can you metal detect in streams?
Metal detecting rivers and streams is fun like the other spots detectorists go to. Some people have even been lucky enough to get their first worthy finds in the rivers.
Can I metal detect on farm land?
The premise remains the same: It is illegal for anyone to embark on a metal detecting search, whether on private or public land, without the permission of the landowner. Many detectorists will seek permission from the landowner – often a farmer – so there are a number of things for members to bear in mind.
Can you metal detect under water?
Yes – Metal Detectors CAN Be Used In Water!
Most metal detectors aren't completely waterproof, but submersible metal detectors can work very well underwater. It's important before purchasing a waterproof metal detector that you fully understand where and how you will be using your new treasure hunting device.
Can you keep what you find with a metal detector?
In the U.S., laws vary by state, but the general conclusion is that going treasure hunting is often a waste of time because you likely can't keep it. The Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 states that any “archaeological resources” found on the land of the state belong to the government.
How do I ask someone to metal detect?
Simply introduce yourself, tell the property owner you metal detect old homes as a weekend hobby. Don't tell them you look for treasure. Ask them if it would be okay to metal detect their front yard for a couple hours. That's the simple approach that works for me.
What is the easiest metal detector to use?
The most popular easy-to-use metal detector series are the Nokta Makro Simplex, Garrett Ace, and Fisher F series. With that said, do not let an adjustable ground balance or some advanced features worry you. Models with these advanced features will allow you to grow in to the hobby.
How do you research land for metal detecting?
Well, get ready as I offer my top 9 recommendations to conduct research and to help you find the best places to go metal detecting!
- Online. ...
- Drones. ...
- Library. ...
- Plat Maps. ...
- Visiting The Local Historical Society. ...
- Talking To Neighbors. ...
- Taking A Walk. ...
- Talking To Local Metal Detecting Club Members.
What is NCMD?
Welcome to the NCMD - National Council for Metal Detecting.
What are the chances of finding treasure with a metal detector?
Metal detecting beats archaeology
92.7% of treasure was uncovered using a metal detector, compared to a mere 3.4% from archeological digs. Whatever you do, don't leave it to chance though - only 1.7% of finds were stumbled upon by chance.
Where are the best places to metal detect?
20 Places to Metal Detect: A List of the Best Places to Go Metal...
- Your own front and back yard. ...
- School Yards or Grounds. ...
- Sporting Fields. ...
- Old Drive-In Theaters. ...
- City Parks. ...
- Hunting Camps and Lodges. ...
- Beaches. ...
- Renaissance Fairs and Fair Grounds.
Can I metal detect on a beach?
You can metal detect both in the water and on the shore, depending on what type of metal detector you have. Specific detecting techniques will improve your chances of finding valuable items on the beach. Some metal detectors are better than others when it comes to beach metal detecting.
Where can you metal detect for gold in the UK?
The Lake District: Mungrisdale, Dunmail Raise and Blencathra Mountain are reputed to be good spots and traces have also been found in Troutbeck and Sedbergh. The Northern Pennines: A wealth of minerals, including gold, has been found here. Nenthead and the River Swale have both had reports of gold finds.
Can you metal detect in France?
In France, hobbyists using metal detectors is against the law. Any archaeological finds made in the country are considered important artifacts of cultural heritage and must be turned over to the state.
Can you fly with a metal detector?
Because of the size limitations of overhead bins and space under seats, this item should be transported in checked bags. Due to airline polices on weight and size of checked bags, you should check with your airline for any potential guidelines for certain checked items.
What underwater metal detector does man river use?
Minelab Excalibur II. The unique design of the new Minelab Excalibur allows you to use it effectively in or out of the water.