The law of the search
Metal Detecting and Treasure Laws in Louisiana
RestrictedMetal detecting. Banned in parks; special-use permit possible
Treasure trove and found property. Civil-code: owner keeps on own land; 50/50 split on another's
Submerged and wrecks. Claims submerged resources; underwater needs Corps permits
Treasure trove and found property. Civil-code: owner keeps on own land; 50/50 split on another's
Submerged and wrecks. Claims submerged resources; underwater needs Corps permits
Worth knowing
Near-total ban on public-land detecting.
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 state and 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.