The law of the search
Metal Detecting and Treasure Laws in Peru
MixedMetal detecting. Tolerated for modern search; beaches easiest
What happens to finds. Pre-Columbian and colonial artifacts belong to the state
What happens to finds. Pre-Columbian and colonial artifacts belong to the state
Worth knowing
Antiquities are strictly protected, never dig them.
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.