The law of the search
Metal Detecting and Treasure Laws in California
MixedMetal detecting. Designated park areas; beaches/shallow saltwater OK; some SRAs ban possession
Treasure trove and found property. Lost-property statute; claims 100+ yr items
Submerged and wrecks. State owns submerged lands & embedded wrecks
Treasure trove and found property. Lost-property statute; claims 100+ yr items
Submerged and wrecks. State owns submerged lands & embedded wrecks
Worth knowing
No digging artifacts; Auburn & Folsom Lake SRAs ban even possessing a detector.
This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. The rules change and vary by county, city, park, and parcel, and federal land carries its own restrictions. Always confirm with the specific land manager or agency before you search, and record and report finds where the law requires it.
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