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How to Metal Detect Responsibly

Metal detecting is becoming very popular in the UK due to the vast number of historical relics that are yet to be discovered.  Recently a Wiltshire man found a medieval gold brooch in the Pewsey Vale.  To best protect our heritage, there are several rules that need to be followed.  If you are new to the hobby, this blog will teach you some of the basics in how to metal detect responsibly.  It is always advisable to do your own research too as the laws constantly change!

Don’t have a metal detector?  Did you know you can Reserve one online from Share Salisbury?

Before you begin...

  1. Don’t trespass.  This can get you in trouble with the landowner, always ask permission first!
  2. Don’t search sites of special interest such as monuments, crash sites and anywhere involving human remains! – Always check the site boundaries before you begin.
  3. Become aware of the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) and follow their guidance.
  4. Use magic maps to determine landownership.
  5. It is recommended to join as a member of the National Council of Metal Detecting NCMD.

While metal detecting…

  1. Work on land that has already been disturbed.  Ploughed land is a good place to search.
  2. Reinstate the land as neatly as when you found it.
  3. If you discover something deeper than the disturbed level, report it to the landowner and contact your local Finds Liaison Officer.
  4. Record the location of all finds using GPS or a National Grid Reference.  When archaeological finds are taken out of context, a piece of the puzzle is lost, making it difficult for historians to piece together stories of our nation’s rich heritage.
  5. Bag all finds individually. 
  6. Always leave property and gates as you found them.
  7. Never damage crops or property.
  8. Take care to not disturb domestic or wild animals including nesting birds
  9. If you find litter, place it in a bin.
  10. Call the police and notify the landowner if you find human remains, a burial site, an explosive device.  And whatever you do, don’t move them!

After you have finished...

  1. Report any archaeological finds to the landowner.
  2. Report your find within 14 days to the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS).
  3. Familiarise yourself with (and follow) the Treasure Act Code.

Where to go metal detecting...

Public Land = You are allowed to metal detect in parks and roadsides, but a permit is always required.  Permits can be obtained from the local council. 

Private Property = You must seek permission from both the landowner and tenant.  It is advisable to get any permissions in writing!

National Woodland & Parks = You can metal detect in public woodsunless there is a private landowner, in which case you will need to seek the permission of the owner first.  National parks are usually prohibited, and only archaeological excavations are possible on this land.

Beaches = All beaches are owned by someone, so like public land, you will still need to ask permission from the landowner before detecting. 

Useful links...

How to metal detect responsibly man on beach