UK Metal Detecting Laws: What Detectorists Need to Know

Last reviewed: September 2026

Metal detecting is legal in many parts of the UK, but that does not mean you can simply take a detector anywhere and start searching.

Land ownership, permission, heritage protection, archaeological designations and the legal status of anything you find can all affect what you are allowed to do.

At Metal Searchers, we believe that understanding these rules is an essential part of responsible metal detecting.

This guide explains the main legal considerations for recreational detectorists, with particular emphasis on England and Wales.

Important: Metal detecting law differs between England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Always check current official guidance for the part of the UK where you intend to detect.

Is Metal Detecting Legal in the UK?

Yes.

Owning and using a metal detector is generally legal, but where you use it is restricted by land ownership and various laws protecting archaeological and historic sites.

As a general principle, you should establish:

Who owns or controls the land.
Whether you have permission to metal detect.
Whether the site has a protected archaeological designation.
Whether additional restrictions apply.
What you must do with significant finds.

Public access to land does not automatically give you permission to metal detect there.

Do You Need the Landowner's Permission?

For private land, you should obtain permission from the landowner or whoever has authority to grant detecting permission.

This applies to locations such as:

Farmland
Pasture
Woodland
Private estates
Gardens
Privately owned beaches
Other private land

Do not assume that an occupier, tenant or employee necessarily has authority to give permission on behalf of the owner.

Where possible, clarify this before detecting.

Written Permission Is Preferable

Although informal permission may sometimes be given verbally, written permission provides considerably more certainty for both detectorist and landowner.

A simple agreement can establish:

Where you may detect
Dates or times when detecting is permitted
Whether anyone may accompany you
How holes should be reinstated
How ordinary finds will be handled
How valuable finds will be divided
What happens if Treasure is discovered
Whether the permission can be withdrawn

This can prevent disagreements later.

Public Land Does Not Automatically Mean Permission

One of the most common misconceptions among beginners is that public access means metal detecting is permitted.

It doesn't.

A park, common, recreation ground, beach or woodland may be accessible to the public while remaining subject to:

Local authority rules
Byelaws
Private ownership
National Trust restrictions
Heritage protection
Environmental restrictions
Lease conditions

Always check first.

Can You Metal Detect on Scheduled Monuments?

Not without the required consent.

Scheduled Monuments are nationally important archaeological sites protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979.

In England, it is a criminal offence to use a metal detector on a Scheduled Monument without the appropriate consent.

This applies even if you have permission from the person who owns the land.

Landowner permission does not override Scheduled Monument protection.

Examples of Scheduled Monuments can include:

Prehistoric settlements
Burial mounds
Hillforts
Roman sites
Medieval settlements
Castles
Industrial archaeological sites
Other nationally important archaeological remains

Always check the status of a site before detecting.

Section 42 Consent

In England, Historic England administers Section 42 Consent for the use of metal detectors on protected places.

Consent is also required to remove an object of archaeological or historical interest discovered using a detector in such a protected place.

Historic England states that permission for recreational metal detecting on Scheduled Monuments would normally be granted only in exceptional circumstances, generally as part of a recognised archaeological project.

For an ordinary recreational detectorist, the practical rule is simple:

Do not metal detect on a Scheduled Monument.

How Do You Know Whether Land Is Scheduled?

Never rely solely on the fact that there are no signs or fences.

Some Scheduled Monuments are obvious archaeological sites.

Others can look like an ordinary field.

Before detecting potentially sensitive land, check the appropriate official historic-environment records and discuss any uncertainty with the landowner.

Stewardship and Environmentally Sensitive Land

Additional restrictions can apply to agricultural land entered into environmental or Countryside Stewardship schemes.

For example, detecting may be prohibited on:

Scheduled Monuments
Certain known archaeological sites
Sites of Special Scientific Interest
Areas where detecting would conflict with the environmental agreement

The farmer or land manager should know whether the land is subject to an agreement.

If there is any uncertainty, check before detecting.

What Is the Treasure Act 1996?

The Treasure Act 1996 provides the principal legal framework for determining whether certain archaeological finds are legally classed as Treasure in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The definition was expanded in July 2023.

This is important because Treasure is no longer defined only by the age and precious-metal content of an object.

Certain exceptionally important objects can now qualify because of their historical, archaeological or cultural significance.

What Can Count as Treasure?

The legal definition is detailed, so detectorists should avoid trying to make a final determination themselves.

Some important categories include the following.

Precious Metal Objects

An object other than a coin can potentially qualify where it:

Is at least 300 years old, and
Contains at least 10% gold or silver by weight.

There are additional provisions for prehistoric objects and associated finds.

Groups of Coins

Groups of coins can potentially qualify depending on:

Their age
Their number
Their precious-metal content
Whether they form part of the same find

Different thresholds apply depending on whether the coins contain sufficient gold or silver.

Prehistoric Metal Objects

Certain prehistoric metallic objects can qualify as Treasure even where they are made from base metal.

Exceptionally Significant Finds

Since 30 July 2023, an additional category allows certain objects to be considered Treasure where they are:

At least partly made of metal
At least 200 years old
Of exceptional historical, archaeological or cultural significance

This means that an important find should not automatically be dismissed as “not Treasure” simply because it is made from base metal.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have Found Treasure?

In England, if you find an object that may be Treasure, contact your local Finds Liaison Officer (FLO).

Potential Treasure must be reported within 14 days of:

Finding it, or
Realising that an object you previously found may qualify as Treasure.

If you are uncertain, seek advice.

It is much better to ask an FLO than to incorrectly assume an important object does not require reporting.

What Happens After Treasure Is Reported?

The Treasure process determines whether the object legally qualifies as Treasure.

Depending on the circumstances:

The find will be examined.
The circumstances and findspot will be recorded.
A legal determination may be made.
A museum may express an interest in acquiring the object.
The find may be valued.
A reward may potentially be payable.

The precise process depends on the circumstances of the find.

Keep the Exact Findspot

If you find something potentially important, record exactly where it was found.

A GPS location can be extremely useful.

Archaeological objects derive much of their historical value from their context.

A Bronze Age object with an accurately recorded findspot can provide archaeological information.

The same object with no reliable location loses much of that information.

What If You Discover a Hoard?

If several objects appear to have been deposited together, avoid immediately excavating the entire area.

There may be archaeological information surrounding the objects that can be permanently destroyed by uncontrolled digging.

A sensible approach is to:

Stop digging.
Protect the location.
Record the exact position.
Contact the relevant Finds Liaison Officer.
Follow professional advice.

A properly excavated hoard can reveal information about the arrangement, container, date and circumstances of its deposition.

What Is the Portable Antiquities Scheme?

The Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) records archaeological objects discovered by members of the public in England and Wales.

Many objects recorded with PAS are not Treasure.

The purpose is to preserve information about archaeological discoveries that might otherwise be lost.

Detectorists regularly report items such as:

Coins
Brooches
Buckles
Mounts
Tokens
Strap fittings
Medieval objects
Roman artefacts
Prehistoric objects

Recording responsible finds contributes to archaeological research.

Do You Have to Report Every Old Coin?

Not every old object found in England is automatically Treasure.

However, archaeologically important non-Treasure finds can still be voluntarily recorded through PAS.

If you are uncertain about an object, your local Finds Liaison Officer can help determine its significance.

Don't Clean Important Finds Immediately

If you uncover an unusual or potentially significant object, resist the temptation to clean it immediately.

Aggressive cleaning can destroy:

Patina
Surface deposits
Plating
Organic remains
Tool marks
Archaeological evidence

For significant finds, leave conservation to people who understand the material involved.

Who Owns Ordinary Finds?

Ownership of non-Treasure finds can be complicated and depends on circumstances.

Do not assume:

“I found it, therefore it belongs to me.”

Before detecting private land, agree with the landowner how finds will be handled.

This is particularly important where an object might have significant financial value.

Agree Find Sharing Before Detecting

A written detecting agreement should ideally specify how finds or rewards will be divided.

For example, detectorist and landowner might agree a particular percentage for significant finds.

The exact arrangement is a private matter between the parties.

What matters is that the agreement is made before something valuable comes out of the ground.

Can You Metal Detect on Beaches?

Sometimes.

Beach detecting permission depends on ownership and local restrictions.

Possible owners or managers include:

The Crown Estate
Local authorities
Private estates
Parish councils
National Trust
Leaseholders

Never assume that because a beach is open to the public you automatically have detecting permission.

For detectorists visiting Cornwall, see our separate Metal Detecting on Cornwall Beaches guide.

What About Crown Estate Foreshore?

The Crown Estate currently allows recreational metal detecting on foreshore that it owns, subject to its conditions and any other applicable restrictions.

The foreshore is broadly the area between Mean High Water and Mean Low Water.

This does not automatically give you permission for:

Land above the foreshore
The seabed
Riverbeds
Privately owned foreshore
Protected archaeological sites

Always check the individual location.

Can You Metal Detect on National Trust Land?

The National Trust does not generally permit recreational metal detecting on its land.

Detecting is normally restricted to appropriately authorised archaeological projects.

This includes National Trust beaches.

Always check current National Trust guidance rather than assuming that public access implies detecting permission.

What If You Find Something From a Shipwreck?

Wreck material is subject to different legislation.

Wreck can include material recovered from a:

Ship
Aircraft
Hovercraft

and may include:

Parts of the vessel
Equipment
Cargo

Recovered wreck material must be reported to the Receiver of Wreck.

Current government guidance requires reporting within 28 days of recovery.

Do not assume that an object washed onto a beach belongs to whoever finds it.

Protected Wreck Sites

Some wreck sites receive specific legal protection.

Additional restrictions can apply to diving, detecting, disturbing or removing objects from these sites.

If you believe you are near a protected wreck, check the applicable rules before carrying out any detecting or recovery activity.

Does the Same Law Apply in Scotland?

No.

Scotland operates a substantially different system.

Under Scots law, portable antiquities of archaeological, historical or cultural significance can be claimed by the Crown through the Treasure Trove system and must be reported.

Detectorists should obtain landowner permission and check for Scheduled Monuments and other protected sites before detecting.

Do not apply the England and Wales Treasure rules to finds made in Scotland.

What About Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland also has different rules governing metal detecting.

The Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 places significant restrictions on searching for archaeological objects.

A licence is required where searching for archaeological material involves disturbing the ground, and licences are normally associated with legitimate archaeological projects.

Anyone planning to metal detect in Northern Ireland should consult current Department for Communities guidance before detecting.

Can You Metal Detect Along Public Footpaths?

A public right of way gives you a right to travel along the route.

It does not automatically give you permission to metal detect or dig.

The underlying land still belongs to somebody.

Obtain appropriate permission before detecting.

Can You Metal Detect in Public Parks?

Possibly, but do not assume so.

The local authority or landowner may:

Allow detecting
Require permission
Impose conditions
Prohibit detecting through byelaws or policy

Check with whoever manages the park.

Can You Detect in Rivers?

River ownership and rights can be complicated.

Access to a river does not necessarily provide permission to:

Detect the riverbed
Dig
Remove objects

There may also be ecological, archaeological, navigation and fishing-related restrictions.

Establish ownership and current rules before detecting.

What About Sites of Special Scientific Interest?

Sites of Special Scientific Interest can be subject to restrictions designed to protect wildlife, geology and habitats.

Do not assume landowner permission alone automatically authorises activities that conflict with the site's protected status or management agreement.

This is particularly relevant where digging could disturb protected habitat or species.

Responsible Detecting Goes Beyond the Minimum Law

Something being technically lawful does not necessarily mean it is good detecting practice.

We recommend that detectorists:

Obtain proper permission
Avoid protected archaeological sites
Record significant finds
Report potential Treasure promptly
Report archaeological finds through PAS where appropriate
Fill every hole
Remove rubbish
Avoid disturbing crops and livestock
Respect wildlife
Close gates
Avoid damaging archaeological remains
Follow landowner instructions

Responsible behaviour helps protect both the archaeological record and the future of the hobby.

A Legal Checklist Before Detecting

Before starting at a new site, ask:

1. Who owns or controls the land?

Identify the person or organisation capable of granting permission.

2. Do I have permission?

Preferably obtain written permission.

3. Is the site protected?

Check for Scheduled Monuments or other archaeological designations.

4. Is the land subject to environmental restrictions?

Ask whether Stewardship agreements, SSSI status or other restrictions apply.

5. Are there local byelaws?

This is particularly relevant to parks, beaches and council land.

6. Do I know what to do with important finds?

Know how to contact your local Finds Liaison Officer.

7. Have I agreed how finds will be handled?

Avoid ownership or reward disputes by agreeing this beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is metal detecting legal in England?

Yes, but you need appropriate permission and must comply with laws protecting archaeological sites and regulating significant finds.

Do I need a licence to metal detect in England?

There is no general recreational metal detecting licence for ordinary private land in England. However, specific permissions and legal restrictions apply to protected sites.

Do I need the farmer's permission?

Yes. Obtain permission from the landowner or another person authorised to grant detecting permission.

Can a farmer give me permission to detect a Scheduled Monument?

Landowner permission alone is not sufficient. Metal detecting on a Scheduled Monument requires the relevant legal consent.

Is it illegal to metal detect without permission?

Entering or detecting land without appropriate authority can create legal issues including trespass and potentially theft or damage depending on the circumstances. Always obtain permission.

What happens if I find Treasure?

Potential Treasure must be reported through the appropriate Treasure process. In England, contact your local Finds Liaison Officer. Current rules require reporting within 14 days.

Is every gold or silver coin Treasure?

No. The Treasure definition contains specific criteria concerning age, quantity, precious-metal content and association. If uncertain, contact your Finds Liaison Officer.

Do old coins have to be reported?

Not every old coin is legally Treasure, but archaeologically important finds can be recorded voluntarily through the Portable Antiquities Scheme.

Can I keep what I find?

Not automatically. The status of a find can depend on Treasure legislation, land ownership, agreements with the landowner and other legal principles.

Can I metal detect on a public beach?

Sometimes. Permission depends on ownership, local rules and any heritage or environmental restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Metal detecting is an enjoyable way to discover and learn about Britain's past, but detectorists also have a responsibility to protect the historical information associated with what they find.

The most important rules are straightforward:

Get permission.

Check that the site is not protected.

Record significant findspots accurately.

Report potential Treasure.

Report archaeologically important objects where appropriate.

Leave the land as you found it.

After more than 30 years in the hobby, we believe responsible detecting benefits everyone: the detectorist, the landowner, archaeologists and future generations.

If you are ever uncertain about the legal status of a site or a find, don't guess. Check the current official guidance or speak to the relevant authority before proceeding.

Happy - and responsible - detecting!