Metal detecting
Metal Detecting can potentially damage sensitive countryside sites, so the practice is regulated with a permit scheme
Permission may only be given following discussion with the County Archaeologist and the Site Manager.
Over 86% of the land managed by the Countryside Service has a biological or heritage designation. Very little of this land is exposed to disturbance that can move or damage the archaeological artefacts in the soil. Management of these areas maintains vegetation cover, the soil having been left undisturbed for many years. In some cases these areas may never have been significantly disturbed.
Disturbance made by metal detecting can adversely affect specific species or habitats. Such factors will be considered before giving permission.