Metal Detecting in France

In France, the purpose of your search matters. Article L542‑1 of the Heritage Code requires administrative authorisation when a metal detector is used to search for monuments or objects of interest to prehistory, history, art or archaeology. Permission from the landowner does not replace this authorisation. If you want to search for historical finds, contact the regional cultural affairs authority, usually the DRAC, before making plans. Searching for a recently lost object is a different situation, but you should still check land access and local restrictions. Do not assume that every beach allows recreational detecting.