The law of the search
Metal Detecting and Treasure Laws in Maine
MixedMetal detecting. Banned at historic sites; elsewhere by written per-park permit
Treasure trove and found property. Unclear; ARPA governs 100+ yr items on public ground
Submerged and wrecks. Claims wrecks on submerged lands
Treasure trove and found property. Unclear; ARPA governs 100+ yr items on public ground
Submerged and wrecks. Claims wrecks on submerged lands
Worth knowing
Some non-state beaches are unrestricted.
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.