Metal Detecting in Iceland

Iceland’s Cultural Heritage Agency explicitly states that members of the public may use metal detectors, but this is not permission to dig for antiquities. Archaeological remains and objects that meet the legal definition of antiquities, generally 100 years old or more, are protected. You must not search for and dig up metal objects in or around archaeological remains without the necessary authorisation. If you discover a possible antiquity, notify Minjastofnun Íslands immediately and normally leave it where it is. Before searching for modern losses, also confirm permission to access and disturb the particular land.