Metal Detecting in Benin

Benin has an official authorisation procedure for archaeological excavations, set out in Decree No. 2023 259. The procedure involves the ministry responsible for culture and requires supporting information about the proposed work. I could not verify a clear general rule specifically allowing ordinary hobby detector use or searching for modern lost items. Before planning a search, ask the Cultural Heritage Directorate how your activity would be classified and what permissions are required for the location.