Before beginning metal detecting one must always be aware of the legal requirements for your area, this could involve federal, state, county, and/or local legislation. It would be very difficult to list, and keep up to date, with all the legislation for each region in one location. Therefore, we recommend that if you are unfamiliar with the legislation in your particular area please take the time to learn it.
We recommend that you join a metal detecting club or association that encourages responsible metal detecting to ensure you get the maximum enjoyment from this diverse and rewarding activity.
Do not trespass; always respect private property and do no metal detecting without the owner's permission.
It is advisable to get permission in writing and to get an agreement in writing first to avoid disputes regarding the ownership of any subsequent finds.
Never do anything that might contaminate wells, creeks, or other water supplies.
Respect the country code, leave gates as they are found, do not damage crops, and never deliberately disturb wild or domestic animals.
Never litter, always gather or collect any trash or debris you create or find.
Leave as little sign of your passing as possible.
Always use the correct digging or probing equipment to make the least intrusion or marks.
Always fill in your holes, including plowed fields.
Never throw trash finds back in the hole.
Report the discovery of any items of possible significant historical value to a local historian or museum in accordance with the latest legislation of your area if the private land owner agrees.
Never go metal detecting around archaeological monuments or cemeteries.
Report any live ammunition or other potentially lethal objects you may find to authorities after carefully noting or marking the location. Do not attempt to move or interfere with any such devices.
Report all findings to the landowner/occupier.
