CRT Metal Detecting on CRT land

Purpose 

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and procedures for the use of metal detectors on land belonging to the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT).   

Scope  

This policy applies to individuals granted permission to use metal detectors on private farmland owned by the CRT. Without written permission, metal detecting is not allowed on any CRT land and, if permitted, access to the land may be restricted in certain areas deemed sensitive or off-limits. Written agreement will cover a specific time where access is allowed. Outside this time, access is not allowed. Users must be able to identify themselves and have a copy of their written permission on them, if approached by CRT staff. The CRT reserves the right to revoke permission for metal detecting activities at any time, and without prior notice.  

Membership   

Anyone metal detecting on CRT land must be a member of the National Council for Metal Detecting or the Association for Metal Detecting Sports and adhere to their guidelines.  

Responsible Conduct  

If permission is granted, metal detector users must conduct themselves responsibly, respecting the farmland, the natural environment and its wildlife, and any structures or artifacts encountered. Expected behaviour is covered by the National Council for Metal Detecting’s Code of Conduct. This can be viewed at: www.ncmd.co.uk/code-of-conduct.  

Users must adhere to all local and national laws governing metal detecting activities, including regulations related to cultural heritage and archaeological sites, such as the Treasure Act 1966.   

Safety  

Users are responsible for their safety and the safety of others while using metal detectors. They must exercise caution when digging and handling objects, especially in areas where buried utilities or hazards may exist. Any safety hazards encountered while metal detecting must be reported promptly to the CRT.  

Environmental Preservation  

Metal detector users must minimise their impact on the environment by avoiding damage to vegetation, wildlife habitats, and soil integrity. Users must properly dispose of any waste generated during metal detecting activities, including discarded objects, and packaging.  

Reporting finds   

Any significant historical, cultural, or archaeological artifacts, or any valuable items discovered during metal detecting must be reported to the CRT immediately. Users must refrain from removing or disturbing artifacts without proper authorisation from the appropriate authorities. All find locations must also be recorded with a GPS and photographed with a scale (where possible) and reported to the local Portable Antiquities Scheme. For more info on PAS please go to: www.finds.org.uk  

Valuable finds  

The value of anything found will be agreed on a case-by-case basis.  
  

Property Damage and Liability  

Metal detector users are liable for any damage caused to the farmland, including crops, fences, gates, or other structures, during their activities. Users must obtain liability insurance coverage or agree to indemnify the CRT against any claims arising from their metal detecting activities.  

Enquiry  

If you would like to seek permission to carry out metal detecting on one of our CRT farms, please download and complete this form.

For other enquiries, please email [email protected].  

Review 

This policy is reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to reflect changes in regulations, best practices, or land management considerations.