The law of the search
Metal Detecting and Treasure Laws in Ireland
RestrictedMetal detecting. Detecting for artifacts is effectively banned without a licence
What happens to finds. Archaeological objects vest in the State
What happens to finds. Archaeological objects vest in the State
Worth knowing
Among Europe's strictest; prosecutions are real.
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.
See the whole law map
Every country tinted by how friendly the rules are, on the live Atlas.
Open the law mapGet the dispatch
The best of the map every week, the newest case files and the legends worth chasing. Free.