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”.
Can you metal detect on public ground?
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 I use a metal detector 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.
Is it legal to metal detect on beaches UK?
Guide Beach safety and information
Metal detecting is allowed at any time for individuals. Don’t forget to check the tides first. You should hold appropriate public liability insurance, report any significant finds to us and leave the beach as you found it (re-instating any holes).
Can you metal detect in rivers UK?
Metal detecting on the River Thames foreshore requires a separate permit from the Port of London Authority. Finds above the low water mark are generally the property of the landowner, unless classified as Treasure.
Do you need permission to metal detect UK?
You don’t need a licence to use a metal detector in the UK, but there are laws about their use. Using a metal detector is illegal on: private land, without permission from the owner.
Where can I metal detect in UK?
There is no wonder why the farmers field is probably the most popular place to go metal detecting in the UK. Most of the great finds, and hoards have been found here.
What happens if you find treasure UK?
You must report treasure to the local coroner within 14 days of finding it. The Portable Antiquities Scheme can help you report treasure and archaeological finds.
Can I keep what I find metal detecting?
Any finds discovered will normally be the property of the landowner, so to avoid disputes it is advisable to get permission and agreement in writing first regarding the ownership of any finds subsequently discovered.
Where is the best place to metal detect for coins?
Search around front porches, back door steps, walkways and driveways. Scan floors, baseboards and floor coverings carefully for lost coins. Very valuable old coins are often found between the baseboards and the floor. Interestingly, people used to hide coins behind boards in the wall and inside hollow doors.
Who owns the foreshore UK?
the Crown Estate
It is true that the majority of the foreshore in England and Wales is owned by the Crown Estate, however some of the foreshore is now also owned by private landlords. The confusion may arise from the fact that the Crown Estate is the prima facie owner of all foreshore (and seabed) by virtue of prerogative right.
Can you metal detect around lakes?
Public beaches and lakes with old swimming holes are awesome places to metal detect with a waterproof metal detector. The best time to go is early in the morning before it gets crowded.
How do I get a metal detector permit UK?
You will need to bring with you:
A passport / driving licence is ideal but a recent utility bill is also fine. Proof of third party public liability insurance that covers metal detecting activity. Your metal detecting organisation membership details (if you are a member)
Can you metal detect in national forest UK?
It is not illegal to metal detect if you have landowner permission – it is however essential that you do so responsibly. However, it is illegal to metal detect on land covered by legal protections, such as Scheduled Monuments and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and doing so is a criminal offence.
Is treasure hunting legal in UK?
Anyone intending to search for treasure, whether with a metal detector or not, must get the permission from the landowner before they step foot on the land. Land (including paths, public open spaces, beaches and foreshores) always belongs to someone.
Where can I find old places to metal detect?
Top 50 Spots for Metal Detecting Near Me List:
- Amusement Parks.
- Local Schools.
- Old houses.
- Local Public beaches and swimming spots.
- Churches.
- Sports and athletic fields.
- Old Fairgrounds.
- Abandoned home sites and foundations.
How much is a metal detector Licence UK?
Joining the National Council for Metal Detecting is not just about insurance, there are a lot of benefits for your basic £8 per year membership: ✓ Insurance cover for commercial rallies/events, private & group digs.
How many people metal detect in the UK?
The Covid Pandemic and Metal Detecting
| Month | Number of Searches for “Metal Detectors” in Google UK |
|---|---|
| Dec-19 | 49500 |
| Jan-20 | 40500 |
| Feb-20 | 33100 |
| Mar-20 | 33100 |
How do I ask for metal detecting permissions?
There are some simple rules you can follow to make asking for permission to metal detect easier:
- Locate the Owner.
- Follow the Rules.
- Ask Face-to-Face if You Can Metal Detect on Someone’s Property.
- Be Considerate When Asking for Permission to Metal Detect.
- Leave Your Gear in the Car When You Ask Permission.
- Final Word.
Can you metal detect for gold in 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. If you find treasure – gold or silver – you have to report it. Failure to do so is a crime.
Are you allowed to metal detect on the Thames?
Searching is not allowed east of the Thames Barrier – permits are only valid for certain locations west of the Thames Barrier up to Teddington. All areas of foreshore in the UK have an owner. Metal detecting, searching or digging is not a public right – you need permission from the landowner.