The basic rules of detecting
1. You must have the landowners permission to detect on any land. This includes parks, public spaces, woods, common land and public footpaths! Permission must be from the land owner (and the tenant if the land is leased).
When you do get permission to detect on someone’s land, we recommend using our Search Agreement Form so everyone understands what they are agreeing to.
Beaches are a good place to detect and Crown Estate and Scottish beaches are generally fine. However please double check before travelling as on some detecting is not allowed. Visit the Crown Estate website for further information.
2. Never, ever detect on protected sites. Important historical sites are scheduled, giving them legal protection; it’s a criminal offence to detect on them and you will be prosecuted if caught. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are also protected because of nesting birds, protected wildlife or rare fauna and flora.
3. In England, Wales and NI, the landowner owns any non-treasure item found on on their land unless they agree otherwise. Have a written agreement to avoid any misunderstandings. Use our Search Agreement Form
4. Dig carefully and always fill in your holes properly. Leaving holes not only gives detectorists a bad reputation, but it can also lead to farm animals getting injured. This will mean fewer landowners will allow us on their land
5. Dispose of all rubbish responsibly. It’s tempting to just throw anything you find that is of no interest into the hedge or leave it where you found it, but again it sheds a bad light on the hobby. Always take it home and bin it.
6. Follow the Countryside code – close gates, don’t block field entrances, and be respectful of crops, plants and trees as well as the animals and wildlife that live there.
7. Stop digging and get expert help immediately if you dig anything unusual – this includes bombs, ammunition, human bones, burials, archaeological remains and hoards. Watch our Bombs, Bones & Burials Video.
8. Know and follow the Treasure laws. Our videos offer further help and guidance
9. Recording finds that are not classed as Treasure is voluntary but we encourage you to do this. By recording these objects you help advance knowledge of our shared history. PAS (Portable Antiquities Scheme) is run by the British Museum (in England) and through Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales (in Wales). Visit their site to record your finds. Our mobile app is a great tool for recording your finds.