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List of countries where metal detecting is allowed/banned

In South Iceland advertising of metal detectors is equated with striptease ad. Is it normal?
Here’s the list of countries where metal detecting is permitted or prohibited.

Australia. Any metal detecting is allowed. Prospecting for gold nuggets, as well as beach
search, are favourites among locals. There are not so many archaeological finds in
Australia – much less that in Europe and the U.S.

Austria. The use of metal detectors in archaeological contexts requires a permission

issued by the Austrian Federal Monument Authority.

Belarus. Until 2013, metal detecting was prohibited only at archeological sites under state
protection, WWII battlefield sites and on private land (without the owner’s permission).
Since 2013, some laws and provisions restricting searching for historic artifacts have
come into force. In actual fact, the use of metal detectors in Belarus can be considered
forbidden.

Belgium. Private individuals aren’t allowed to look for archaeological artifacts. Beach
search is permitted.

Bulgaria. The owner of a metal detector must register his device with the Ministry of
Culture (otherwise he shall be punishable by a fine, or even jail time). Searching for
archaeological objects requires permission. There are still illegal treasure hunters in
Bulgaria, however – e.g., our commenter Кустарников ))

Note: Here’s a comment from Bulgarian treasure hunter Кустарников.

“Actually, we have another situation – metal detectors are sold legally, and
registration is required only if the buyer is an archeological museum and the
device will be used during legal archeological excavations. Searching for
archaeological finds in our country is permitted only for local historical and
archaeological museums. It’s strictly forbidden for usual people to detect
archaeological sites – not only already known places, but also still unknown
ones. The problem is that there are lots of unknown sites in Belarus but the law
doesn’t specify where in particular it is allowed to search – in other words,
there isn’t such a list of places where it’s permitted to hunt freely. Thus, if you
buy a metal detector, you can only perform air tests with it at home, and that’s
all”.

Cambodia. Metal detecting is allowed only on beaches.

Canada. On the one side, it’s a country with a very poor history – it’s unreal to find a 200- or
300-year- old item. On the other hand, searching for historic artifacts is officially forbidden.
It is the landowner who gives you permission to hunt with a metal detector. Or, you may
metal detect in parks (there is also gold there) as well as on beaches.

Canary islands (Tenerife). Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions.

Caribbean islands. Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions.

China. Any metal detecting is forbidden.

Comoros islands. Any metal detecting is forbidden.

Croatia. Metal detecting is forbidden.

Cuba. Any metal detecting is forbidden. The very possession of metal detectors is equated
with the possession of weapons.
Cyprus. Any metal detecting is forbidden, including beach search. If someone tries to take
a metal detector through customs, it will be confiscated.

Czech Republic. To search for archaeological artifacts you will need permission. Metal
detecting on beaches is allowed.

Denmark. Metal detecting is allowed. Very large and valuable items found must be given to
the state.

Note: Here’s a comment from Italian detectorist Arne Hertz. In Denmark you
can detect with landowners permission and must keep a 2 meter distance from
protected sites. Most archeological finds, pre 1537 coins, any gold and larger
silvercoins are gowerment property. And that is the short version. Also you cant
treat Germany as one country. The different länder or states have different
rules.

Dominican Republic. Metal detecting is allowed and encouraged without any sort of
restrictions.

Egypt. Beach metal detecting is allowed, although permission will be required in some
hotels with private beaches. According to commenter maxipim, there can be problems
with getting the detector through customs. He shared his experience: while preparing for
the trip to Egypt he packed the machine and coil separately – when dealing with the
customs he said it was a crutch.

Ethiopia. Metal detectors are totally banned.

France. Searching for archaeological finds requires permission. Beach metal detecting is
allowed.

Germany. Metal detecting is allowed but requires a license.

Ghana. Locals are permitted to metal detect without any restrictions. Tourists need to
acquire a permit (license?).

Greece. The owner of a metal detector must obtain a license which is issued by the
Ministry of Culture. Metal detecting on beaches requires the mayor’s permission. It’s
prohibited to search for archeological objects – jail term of 10 to 20 years.

Hungary. The use of metal detectors requires special permission.

Iceland (southern part). It is totally forbidden to use metal detectors. By way of example,
advertising of devices is equated with striptease ad. Looks a lot alike… Given that the
country has a population of nearly 320,000, it’s even normal ))

India. Metal detecting is allowed. But any foreign treasure hunter evokes great interest
from locals. Under favorable circumstances, they may even grab the machine from a
foreigner or call the police.

Indonesia. Metal detecting is allowed.

Ireland. Historic artifacts can be looked for only after getting permission and approval
from landowners. Beach metal detecting is allowed (so what are the beaches in Ireland?).
Israel. It’s forbidden to search for historic artifacts. Illegal treasure hunters are punished by
jail time. But anyway, enthusiasts are still hunting there – the land of Israel is stuffed full of
finds. Any construction, downpour, or great storm yields discoveries (without participation
of detectorists). Metal detecting on beaches is allowed. Agent Mulder regularly recovers
gold off beach.

Italy. All things of archeological interest, in and out of the ground, are the property of the
state. Metal detecting by private individuals is allowed in some regions. A finder of
valuable objects receives a reward. There are regions where the use of metal detectors is
prohibited – e.g., Valle d’Aosta, Calabria, Lazio, Tuscany, Sicily.

And one more thing… According to local detectorists, beach search in Italy is controlled by
mafia and the police. There is division into areas which are under control of different clans.
Mafia treasure hunters ))

Note: Here’s a comment from Italian detectorist sergio. “Metal detecting is

allowed on public beaches. But there is nothing to dig there. Private beaches
are watched over by guards – it’s possible to make a deal with some of them,
but some will be against, and it’s better not to argue with them. The police,
carabinieri and mafia – this is a mere fable. The competition among
detectorists is rather high… You can also hunt in the regions where it’s
prohibited to, but not in the areas of archaeological importance – on private
land and in the mountains. But there is nothing to search for in the mountains,
too, as everywhere there are shot and shells the hunters left behind”.

Jordan. Metal detecting by private individuals is forbidden. Note that detectors are not
allowed through Jordan customs as well.

Kenya. Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions.

Latvia. Metal detecting is allowed on beaches and privately owned land (if you have
permission of the owner). In all other cases, it’s prohibited to search with a metal detector.
Special attention is paid to war relic hunters. Latvian police is said to keep an unofficial
record of such hobbyists. Do you believe in it? ))

Libya. Any metal detecting is forbidden.

Lithuania. Since 2010, there have been changes in the country – some restrictions to using
metal detectors have come into force. At present historic artifacts can be looked for after
getting permission from the Department of Cultural Heritage. Metal detecting on beaches
is allowed.

Maldives. Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions.

Malta. Any metal detecting by individuals is forbidden. However, there are options when
local authorities give permission for reasonable pay-off.

Mexico. Metal detecting is permitted. BUT (and it’s extremely important) detecting in
Mexico is the prerogative of mafia clans. Apart from archeological finds, mafia has put
their hands on beach search.

Moldova. Since 2011, metal detecting in the country is forbidden. The possession of metal
detectors is also prohibited.
Mongolia. Metal detectors are totally banned.

Morocco (Agadir). Metal detecting is officially prohibited. But there are quite many
treasure hunters in the country.

Namibia. Searching for archaeological finds is forbidden. Beach metal detecting is

allowed.

Northern Ireland. Metal detecting is allowed on privately owned land (after getting
permission from the owner). I wonder where things stand with beach hunting in Northern
Ireland ))

Norway. Metal detecting is allowed only after getting permission.

Philippines. It’s forbidden to search for archaeological objects. Beach metal detecting is
allowed.

Portugal. Metal detecting is officially prohibited. But there are treasure hunting clubs in
Lagoa and Portimao districts that obtain permission to use metal detectors. Plus, it’s very
rare that beach search is allowed by special permission from authorities (for locals only).

Romania. Metal detecting requires permission. There is the cultural property police in
Romania (Politia de Patrimoniu).

Russia. It’s almost forbidden to search for historic artifacts. Beach metal detecting is
allowed.

Saudi Arabia. All things, in and out of the ground, are the property of the Emir. If someone
disagrees, he will be executed. Metal detectors are totally banned.

Slovakia. The use of metal detectors requires permission.

South Africa. Metal detecting is permitted only on beaches.

Spain. The use of detection devices for the purpose of searching for archeological finds is
not allowed unless you get permission. However, there is a fair amount of illegal treasure
hunters in Spain. Several years ago there used to be even private treasure hunts for foreign
tourists.

Sri Lanka. Metal detecting is forbidden. Police react quickly to any reports on treasure
hunters.

Sweden. Metal detecting on privately owned land is allowed. Beach search is permitted,
too.

Switzerland. Metal detecting is officially not forbidden. But each canton, or even a district,
has its own rules. Thus, it may be forbidden to metal detect only on archeological sites.
However, there are examples when it’s allowed to search even there. On the other hand, in
some areas, collecting scrap metal does require permission from the district authorities.
Moreover, you will need double permission at that: a metal detecting license plus the
landowner’s permit.

Thailand. Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions.

Tunisia. Metal detecting is forbidden. Nevertheless, there are treasure hunters on some of
the beaches.

Turkey. To search with a metal detector, including beach hunting, you will need to get a
permit. However, you shouldn’t rely on verbal permission from hotel administration – the
police will come and will take your metal detector away (they can also put you to prison at
that).

UAE. Beach search is allowed in some areas (on a very limited basis).

Uganda. Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions. Is this the country you are
dreaming of? ))

UK (England). Archaeological finds can be looked for only after getting permission (it’s not
a problem to receive it). Considering that most land is privately owned, you will require
additional permission from the owner. Any valuable object found shall also be shared with
the landowner. The museums have a priority right to acquire finds. Concealment of a
discovery is fraught with punishment. In England the value of the find is determined in a
rather interesting way. For example, a Roman lead plate isn’t viewed as a valuable find,
although it costs $363,625.

Also, in England beach metal detecting is allowed, although there are places where you are
required to obtain a permit or to pay fees. For instance, if you wish to metal detect on a
public beach, you will need to ask local authorities for permission. Detecting on the River
Thames beaches, within the boundaries of London, does require payment of a few dozen
pounds fee.

As a matter of fact, England takes first place in Europe, followed by Poland and France, in
terms of the number of hobbyists involved in metal detecting.

Ukraine. Metal detecting on official archeological sites is forbidden. The rest of sites – you
can search where and with whom you like )) But well, it’s only for the time being. There will
probably be some restrictions in the future.

USA. Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions. To search on privately owned
land you will need to obtain permission from the owner.

Vietnam. Metal detecting is allowed. Tourists prefer beach hunting. Anyone with a metal
detector is a great spectacle for locals – children gather together in a crowd and are
tagging along behind him. Local detectorists search for war artifacts a bit.

The list of countries is being updated. Do you have anything to add? Lots of treasure
hunters will be grateful to you.

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Posted in Reviews | Tagged diggers' tips

89 Responses to List of countries where metal detecting is

allowed/banned
youdig on February 8, 2017 at 09:36

France : archeological site is forbidden unless you got permission that almost never
given. Private land is authorised with owner permission , beach tolerated and
regulated by mayor bylaw. The french law state that it is forbidden to search for
archeological, historical, art artefact ( what metal detector can determine 100% what
you can find ?!). If you find something on the above mentioned categorie even in
private ground you have to declare it and not dig it ( if you get the item out you risk
persecution for destruction of archeological site almost every time).

Reply
Zeppelin Hitler on July 7, 2017 at 23:43

Dumbfuck Frog Asswipes

Reply
Martin Arnold on December 14, 2017 at 19:43

Archeology and the body cant dig everywhere and hope to discover history. Its
seems a pathetic naivety to hate detectorists. The greatest finds are made by
non archeoligists. Are they so childish and infantile that they cant have a good
relationship with detectorists and history can be discovered and shared by all.
They need to grow up

Reply
youdig on February 8, 2017 at 09:40

Actually In france the situation is quite tense, most state archaologist are at war
against detectorist and persecution is an habit.

Reply
Zeppelin Hitler on July 7, 2017 at 23:47

The country is lazy and the women have raunchy stinky armpits but they have
killer cheese.

Reply
 Shimerin on March 3, 2018 at 05:27

The cheese is made under the stinky armpits

Jan-Erik Andersen on February 10, 2017 at 04:07

Metaldetecting in Sweden: You must have a permission the authority and landowner,
and even whit premission you still can`t look for Archaeological finds.

Reply
Patrik w on January 30, 2018 at 20:29

In Sweden your need a permit and map of your permitted area on you when
detecting. I know, i have a permit and 3 diffrent areas. One of the areas on the
permit is my own property.

Reply
Luis on February 11, 2017 at 02:24

Metal detecting in Portugal: The afirmation It´s wrong… It´s not officially prohibited.
The law is similar than Spain, that is, the use of detection devices for the purpose of
searching for archeological finds is not allowed unless you get permission (that you
can´t get unless you are working as an archeologist or work in this area). But if you
detect far away from classified sites and you are not looking for archeologic finds
the law dont forbid the use. In the Beach it is forbidden by law but you cna get a
permission.

Reply
Leonardo Ciocca on February 11, 2017 at 23:15

Ma andate affanculo! Ma quale mafia e inciuci con la polizia in Italia? Questo articolo
è vergognoso!

Reply
Laszlo on May 9, 2017 at 16:39

hai completamente ragione. Sono Ungherese ma ho cercato con MD in Eraclea

Mare e no era problema con nessuno. Mafia? Questi Americani sono divertenti
:)

Reply
Nick on March 20, 2018 at 02:37

I agree these comments are added stupor as the people that make them.
Ciao

Robert on December 20, 2017 at 09:34

Invece da scrive la tuo versione per chiarire le cose te preferisce insultare ,,,
povera Italia

Reply
Alex G. on February 12, 2017 at 09:03
Germany: metal detecting requires permision by the archeologists and is strictly
forbidden on or nearby archeologic sites and in forests. It is allowed (with
permisssion only) on plugged fields etc.
As in France, the archeologists seem to be at war with metal detectorists. When I
started metal detecting 20 years ago it was much easier than today.

Reply
MattDetector on February 12, 2017 at 12:41

Malaysia= metal detecting is allow

Reply
ilyes belala on February 12, 2017 at 18:21

In algeria métal detector= 2 years prison

Reply
Pat Reuse on February 12, 2017 at 20:43

Wat about Japan ?

Reply
bill on May 7, 2017 at 06:29

Japan is allowed. One time I was detecting a beach and was asked by a local
Japanese what I was doing? I explained I was looking for gold/silver and coins.
The lady then asked me if I was poor. haha….

Reply
ralph on June 12, 2017 at 12:51

i live in japan i and i really wanna try metal detecting.can you help me?

Zeppelin Hitler on July 7, 2017 at 23:50

All the metel in Japan melted in 1945.

Reply
tex on February 12, 2017 at 21:05

the belgian post is NOT up to date.

if you really want to know , ask me.

Reply
Martin on March 16, 2017 at 14:33

What is the laws in Belgium?

Reply
mario on April 28, 2017 at 11:07

Hi Tex

Can you tell me how it looks like according to law in Belgium? I leave in
 Antwerpen province but no English version of rights/laws. Just got my own
garrett and plan to do some findings.

Reply
Seilem on May 8, 2017 at 14:19

B Belgii je povoleno hledat?

Mám tam bratra v Brusell.

Reply
Trevor on February 13, 2017 at 02:54

Laws governing metal detecting in England are covered. But, do the same laws also
apply in Scotland? Didn’t know if by “England” the writer meant all of Great Britain or
just England itself?

Reply
Simon on May 7, 2017 at 16:23

They tend to forget that Scotland and Wales are separate countries and not just
a part of England

Reply
Dave Rathy on July 19, 2017 at 03:15

forget or just don’t know ?

Oliver on February 24, 2018 at 15:32

I believe in Scotland the land owner doesn`t have an entitlement to the

finds unless agreed…Elsewhere it is split 50%

Louis A on February 13, 2017 at 13:45

There are a significant number of regulations regarding the prohibition of metal

detecting on public lands, both Federal and state lands, in the United States. A good
summary of those laws can be found at: http://www.mdhtalk.org/articles/legal-to-
detect/legal-to-detect.htm

Reply
Richard on February 13, 2017 at 18:16

Regarding metal detecting in the Republic of Ireland, the following is an extract from
guidelines from the National Museum of Ireland:

“The unauthorised use of metal detectors to look for archaeological objects is

against the law. Such usage is subject to severe penalties, including imprisonment
and/or fines. The categories of objects that are most commonly located by metal
detectorists in Ireland, such as coins, tokens, buttons, clothes fasteners, thimbles,
keys, seals, weights, strap ends and belt mounts, all fulfil the definition of
‘archaeological objects’ which may only be searched for under license.

It is advised therefore that persons do not engage in general searches for lost or
buried objects as to do so may place them at risk of prosecution and endanger the
archaeological heritage.”

For more information see: http://www.museum.ie/The-Collections/Metal-Detecting-

in-Ireland-The-Law

Reply
Metalmaniac on March 3, 2017 at 13:58

“In spain The use of detection devices for the purpose of searching for archeological
finds is not allowed unless you get permission.”

Well in Spain you can’t metal detect in archeological or mineral sites, however you
can get a permission from the authorities to do so. In southern Spain, In the Sevilla
province, you can only detect with a permission, an to get that permission you may
have to wait years. I know people that have been waiting 2 years to get the
permission. And I don’t know for sure but I think the permission only allows you to
metal detect in the beach. In Spain you find an object that could be more than 200
years old, you have to inform the authorities. And If you find things like rings or
phones or pretty much any object that is not money you have to give it to the police
and after 2 years if the owner doesn’t appear, you can get the object you found and
sell it or keep it or whatever you want to.

Reply
xxxxx on May 6, 2017 at 19:25

Poland: Search with metal detector requires a permit from WKZ, on beaches are
allowed

Reply
Jp on May 6, 2017 at 22:11

How about in the philippines?

Reply
George on May 6, 2017 at 23:07

When I went to Jamaica, they said it was officially legal, but to watch out for the drug
cartels who routinely take anything you find or just shoot you & take your machine. In
other words, stay on the resort.

Reply
Paul on May 7, 2017 at 07:17

Marauding groups of uncontrolled metal detectetorists are rampaging through the

the English countryside, ,farmers are engouraged by get rich quick individuals to hire
there fields out on a daily basis for fees in excess off a thousand pounds per day,
entrance fees are then charged to visiting metal detecting enthusiasts,who will walk
off the field with there finds in there pockets ,some of these groups are sponsored by
Metal detector shops and outlets .
Some of the land is being used by Individuls small groups and clubs in a responsible
way with finds being recorded ,the hobby in the UK is being scrutinised with the view
of applying restrictions ,because of the iresponsible actions of others .
Reply
sean on June 21, 2017 at 12:00

I gather you havent been on a rally or club dig,we record with PAS and have
finds liason officers on site to record all finds.the artifacts are better dug than
lost forever or destroyed by plough and soil conditions. just my opinion. atb hh
gl

Reply
John on July 6, 2017 at 10:47

Paul is talking his usual propagandist, anti-detectorist nonsense.

There are a few undistinguished, archaeologists across Europe, who because

of their own failures to establish themselves among their heritage peers,
dedicate their miserable lives by spreading lies and on behalf of others, more
talented but equally nasty. The Portable Antiquities Scheme is the envy of the
world with over one million artefacts recorded by Britain’s hobbyists.

The elephant in the room and that which Paul fails to mention ( well, he would
wouldn’t he?) is that the number of artefacts documented on the PAS database
found by archaeologists can be counted on the palm of one hand.

Reply
Hz78 on May 7, 2017 at 13:17

What about metal detecting in canada?

Reply
Blizz on May 7, 2017 at 14:34

You need visa to get there . . . :)

Reply
Zsolt dobray on June 11, 2017 at 02:20

Legal anywhere. Permission must be obtained from landowners. Provincial

parks and national parks seem to be off limits except for beaches. Some city or
town park personnel might frown on it. Overall it’s canada and nobody seems
to give you a second look.

Reply
JCW on July 21, 2017 at 15:04

In National and Provincial Parks, there are no prohibitions for using metal
detectors except in registered archaeological sites. The wording of the
regulations for the parks generally pertain to “digging” or damaging the
area. The same is often for cities and towns with bylaws pertaining to the
“digging” but no specificity to metal detecting. So you can metal detect
but you need to carefully consider your method of recovery. I just dealt
with this at a provincial park. Once I walked the staff through how I use a
screw driver to recover coins in the grass, they had no issue.
Juan Rouillon on May 8, 2017 at 10:46

What about Scotland?

Reply
Catherine L on August 14, 2017 at 07:39

Same rules apply to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. There is a
great relationship between archaeologists and detectorists on the whole.
Detecting is legal with landowners permission except on sites of historical
interest or nature reserves that have been given special protection. Beach
detecting is allowed (check crown estates site for details) but watch for local
laws, nature reserves and sites that have been leased to organisations that
prohibit it.

You can get a license to detect in London on the Thames. There are lots of
organised digs for those without permissions. They require insurance (£15
approx a year) and cost about £20-25 per day. ‘Treasure’ must be declared (see
NCMD link below) and export license for finds is required.

Useful links on laws, getting insured etc… https://www.ncmd.co.uk. Friendly

forum to ask questions… https://www.metaldetectingforum.co.uk

Reply
Justin Cornelius on May 8, 2017 at 10:54

The comment on the Bulgarian site is wrong. He is talking about Belarus??

Reply
Salvador on May 8, 2017 at 11:11

Netherlands: allowed on a private grounds with a permission from a land owner. Not
so hard to get as this is very popular hobby here. Allowed on the beaches without any
additional permissions, there only may be some local restrictions regarding time of a
day you can search.
Strictly forbidden in some areas especially the areas of WW2 battles and operations.
List of forbidden areas is easy to find in the internet. Forbidden in forests away from
the footpaths. Forests are patroled by boswachters on a motorbikes, so you hear
them from a distance.
Despite all of above, every neighbourhood has its own rules called ADV, which
regulate all aspects of a given area (geemente), including metal detecting.

Reply
Salvador on May 8, 2017 at 11:12

Forbidden on the dunes by the sea.

Reply
Florian on October 30, 2017 at 19:58

It’s called an APV, algemene plaatselijke verordening i believe?

Reply
Chris on May 8, 2017 at 21:17

And Scotland is free ?

Reply
Arne Hertz on May 8, 2017 at 22:44

In Denmark you can detect with landowners permission and must keep a 2 meter
distance from protected sites. Most archeological finds, pre 1537 coins, any gold and
larger silvercoins are gowerment property. And that is the short version

Also you cant treat Germany as one country. The different länder or states have
different rules.

Reply
Bent Rasmussen on June 15, 2017 at 23:39

Denmark
Please update with text from Arne Hertz.

Reply
Janno on May 10, 2017 at 06:03

In Estonia you can search beaches and there are law if you search items older than
1300AD you need license. Its funny law because overall its allowed to search
everywhere if you have landowner permission. Government wanted to make all
metaldetecting under licence only but they failed to make law. So there are peoples
who have license and there are more people who dont have it. It costs like 500 euros
to make that licence and dectorists asks really? Noone cares. Its government effort
to monitoring all dectorists and etc. Spying after dectorists, thatswhy almost noone
makes that license.

Reply
Lembit on March 10, 2018 at 15:43

Are there any accessible areas aside from beaches where detecting is allowed
on public land, where you don’t have to seek owner permission? What about in
a forest that is not owned by a private owner (and where might I find a parcel
map, so I know who owns what?) I don’t know if it makes any difference but I
am a dual U.S. and Estonian citizen, but I live in the U.S. so I don’t know if I’d get
in trouble for bringing a metal detector into the country via the airport.
Specifically, I’d want to search for WWII era items, so I don’t think I’d be in much
danger of finding pre-1300 artifacts.

Reply
AK48 on May 19, 2017 at 15:28

in algeria Any metal detecting is forbidden. The possession of metal detectors is

equated with the possession of weapons. If someone tries to take a metal detector
through customs, it will be confiscated. jail term of 10 to 20 years.

Reply
ervin on May 29, 2017 at 22:10
and Serbia ?

Reply
Jarno Moleveld on June 27, 2017 at 09:29

Netherlands is over all allowed. However there are some rules:

Allowed list:
– You are allowed to search on private property with permission of the owner. Be
aware that more and more farmers no longer allow people to search on their land
due to people that do not close their holes, make a mess of things or simply search
without permission.
– You are allowed on most of the government owned land, however in some area’s it
is forbidden (ask local government to make sure before you start searching!)
– Beaches are open for searching, just as long as you leave the dunes and the other
sea barriers alone. Those are strictly off limits for searching.
– Metal detectors and magnet fishing are 100% legal, no one will really bug you
about it. Although you may get locals asking you what you found so far etc.

Forbidden list:
– Local parks
– Forests and nature reserves
– Any sea/water protection site such as dunes and dikes
– Any known World War II site that could give potential danger
– Any known and marked archaeological site (Roman locations are very much
protected, do yourself a favor and do NOT look there)

There are people looking for World War II relics, but mostly illegal since police love
writing you up for it and there have been cases of imprisonment and confiscation of
EVERYTHING you found related to the topic.

There are more and more politicians that keep trying to limit or even ban searching
with a metal detector. This because of fools who take live ammunition home, to even
playing dumb to say they do not know what something is (even if it’s clear it is a
grenade, some type of shell or bomb). So be aware the laws may change with time
for the worse

Reply
Dr. SUDHANSHU JAYASWAL on July 3, 2017 at 12:43

I want to know whether metal detecting for Indian nationals is allowed in India
without any restrictions or is allowed with permission(or special permission or
license). If so, then from which authority, it is to be obtained? Kindly enlighten me as I
want to take up this wonderful hobby in a serious way.

Reply
Arul on July 11, 2017 at 18:01

Hi Mr Jayaswal, I am a just like minded Indian. In India there is no restriction in law

for metal detecting but the historical places & monuments protected by ASI are
strictly prohibited. In any other places we can do metal detecting but if anything
valuable find if that relic has any historical value or more than 100 years old we have
to inform the local authorities or ASI as per Indian Treasurer trove act. You can mail
(apjjcool@gmail.com) me if you’re interested to have share your thoughts

Reply
Basavaraj on July 13, 2017 at 16:54

I m from India ..Can I find gold at India beaches

Reply
Kris on July 18, 2017 at 07:24

Metal detecting on Croatian’s beaches is also forbidden ?

Reply
Leonardo Caponi on July 24, 2017 at 19:51

Here in Brazil doesnt exist a specific law abou metal detecting and its normal see
people doing beach prospecting.
Its prohibited by law:
– Look for gold (or any valuable metal) nuggets only with a permission for the
government (miner register). Only for brazilian citizens.
– Protected areas (“locais tombados”). Prohibited in these areas. Normally old
places with arqueological objects.
– Prohibited to store or comercialize objects from Colony or Empire era (since 1500
to 1886) by law. Normally this law dificults trades but dont stops at all. People who
found for example gold coins must to sell in black market.

Reply
heera jung on September 7, 2017 at 19:14

metal ditectar allowed in nepal?

Reply
Jonny U on October 18, 2017 at 18:04

Norway has almost the same rules as Denmark, You will have to get landowner
permission, parks and beaches are ok, old finds go automatic to the local museum (
you can get a finders reward sometimes). And 5 meters min distance on any
registered or protected area (they are all over Norway).

Reply
min on October 21, 2017 at 13:06

Indonesia Bali metal detection lawful?

Reply
min on October 21, 2017 at 13:08

Indonesia can use metal detectors in Bali

Reply
Omar on October 23, 2017 at 13:31

What about my country Lebanon in midle east ?

Reply
andrzej on November 2, 2017 at 17:56

What about Poland guys ? Oficially you can have a metal detector but it’ s forbridden
by law to make any searches of any item (except meteorites:) ) Theoretically you can
have a serious problems even for 60 years old worthless coin :).

Reply
Wefin on November 4, 2017 at 20:24

I agree, but I saw an official letter from one of the authorities of Poland that a
meteorite is also a movable historical treasure! Isn’t it stupid?

Reply
Arne Hertz on December 3, 2017 at 08:57

Denmark
I am danish, not italian as you write. A follow up on Denmark. You must have
permission to take items found, predating 1660, out of the country. Even the simplest
artefacts such as flint flakes. Other rules apply for coins.
So in effect a hit and run detecting trip to Denmark can not be recomended. You
must allow time to turn in relevant finds to the local museum. Item not concidered
Stateproperty can also be retained by local museum if concidered of cultural value.
Permission to export also takes time so those finds must stay in Denmark for some
time.
And yes permission is a must, even on public beaches. Seperate rules apply for
coins, but considering the abowe I can not recommend that you detect in Denmark
without a knowleble local contact.

Reply
George Johnston on December 6, 2017 at 23:42

Your information on Canada is inaccurate. Each of the Provinces may, or may not
have it’s own legislation. For example in Nova Scotia there are two acts covering
artifacts. The Oak Island Act covers only Oak Island (I worked there in 2015). The rest
of the Province is covered under the Special Places Protection Act. You cannot
detect in a Provincial Park, but public beaches are not monitored. In addition there
are certain areas covered by Federal Legislation, like Federal Historic Sites. I am not
sure about other Provinces legislation

Reply
Saulius on December 9, 2017 at 09:15

”Canary islands (Tenerife). Metal detecting is allowed without any restrictions.”

what about other island Gran Canaria, Lanzerote?

Reply
Mark on December 18, 2017 at 22:05

Is Gran Canaria same as Tenerife as going in 6 days with my detector?

Reply
Tomas on December 25, 2017 at 22:26

Just got a MD for Xmas. Living near Sarlat in Dordogne France. I know about the
rules with permission from local Prefect.. but how strict is it really..?
Br

Reply
Jari on December 30, 2017 at 11:08

What is the law in Luxembourg?

Reply
Aureus on January 15, 2018 at 13:35

Whoever wrote this should definitively comme and metal detect in Canada. Not sure
why it says the history is poor and it’s unreal to find 200-300 years old relics. I sure
did and plenty of them. I’m glad I didn’t read this before picking up the metal detector
for the first time.

Reply
Alex Cartwright on January 18, 2018 at 01:04

Any restrictions in Panama for metal detection

Reply
Jim on January 30, 2018 at 15:37

Many states impose stricter regulations. Vermont limits the depth of digging in state
parks, and only allows digging on sand (beaches). In Maine, some state parks are off-
limits if there are areas of archaeological concerns, and even on state-controlled
beaches, any finds are deemed to be the property of the state and must be turned in.

Reply
Jim MacKenzie on January 30, 2018 at 15:49

Detecting is also prohibited on the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Reply
Greg on February 7, 2018 at 11:21

In North Carolina, if one detects along the National Seashore State Park, I have heard
that you have the metal detector confiscated, your car is towed and you may be fined
and go to jail. Does anyone know if this is true ?? I (do) know that most or all state
parks, nature preserves, and, of course, historic parks and sites are off limits to metal
detectors.

Reply
Richard on May 22, 2018 at 15:31

If there is a park entrance ask the attendant, other than that I live in North
Carolina and have never been told anything on the beach. State parks won’t
allow on park property but like Myrtle Beach State Park, may allow on the beach
if you ask before just walking. Other than that I have never been told anything
 on any beach in North Carolina.

Reply
nilantha on February 11, 2018 at 21:48

do u have a gold detector in maldives

pls reply me
thanks

Reply
Thomas Cleary on February 12, 2018 at 12:55

In the USA, there are some restrictions that need to be noted. Here are a several…
Detecting in National Parks, Civil War Battle fields such as Gettysburg and many
others, Historical landmarks on public land that are registered with the state, some
local parks are NOT allowed. State parks are permitted in certain areas, so
contacting the Dept. of Natural Resources as to where it is permitted is advisable.
Detecting in those areas can lead to hefty fines and or prison. It is advisable to look
into local/state laws before detecting.

Reply
Kalf999 on March 3, 2018 at 11:20

Cambodia not allowed, but……

Maybe 5 or 10 local Khmer have a detector, incl. permit by the police dpt.
For foreigners you never have a permit unless you pay some bribes to local police
officers…

Reply
Helga Tsai on March 4, 2018 at 12:05

Your selection of this palaces are awesome It can help the detector to where he
detected. There is the information of many places are allow or not allow for
detecting. For this information, the detector is known about it and they are detected
to right places. Uganda, USA are permitted city for detecting without any restrictions.
It is an impressive post and likes to read this.

Reply
johnny deus on March 11, 2018 at 12:59

hi can anyone tell me is metal detecting allowed in goa ….regards johnny d

Reply
Hans on April 5, 2018 at 20:47

is it allowed to detect in Brazil?? anybody knows About That?

Reply
Marat on April 19, 2018 at 23:44

How about Mexico

Reply
 Mattias Hult on April 28, 2018 at 23:18

Does anyone know what the situation is like in the republic of Georgia on this matter?
Thanks.

Reply
Richard on May 22, 2018 at 15:37

I travel to Colombia South America and have hunted the beach in Barranquilla and
Cartagena and nobody said anything more than ask what I was doing. I also hunted
local freshwater beach park, no problem.. also local park nobody seemed to care. I
don’t know if there are any laws specific to metal detecting in Colombia.

Reply
Richard on May 22, 2018 at 15:38

I also travel to Costa Rica and have hunted the beach there and nobody said anything
more than ask what I was doing. I don’t know if there are any laws specific to metal
detecting in Costa Rica.

Reply

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