Metal Detecting in Finland

Metal detecting is possible in Finland, but permission to walk across land does not automatically include permission to dig. Metsähallitus explains that a detector may be used on its land under public access rights, while disturbing the soil requires the landowner’s prior consent. Archaeological sites and protected natural areas have additional restrictions. If you find an object that may be at least 100 years old, report it to the Finnish Heritage Agency without delay and avoid further digging that could disturb its context. These guidelines concern mainland Finland. Åland has a separate heritage system, so check its rules independently.