Beach Detecting Code of Ethics

Respect all local laws/ordinances as some beaches do not allow detecting in the dry sand or at all.
Fill in every hole you dig as someone can get injured.
Properly dispose of all trash that you dig. A pouch with 2 compartments is ideal offering one side for treasure and the other for trash. If you leave the trash behind there is a good chance you may dig it again the next time you detect that beach.
Never dig in any vegetation on the beach. The vegetation helps protect erosion.
Report and ordinances/explosives to authorities immediately. It is not uncommon on the Treasure Coast of Florida to find them.
Be an Ambassador for the hobby by being courteous and considerate at all times. Please give sunbathers plenty of space. Don’t shake sand too close especially when the wind is blowing. Answer their questions being polite as possible. Use headphones so others are not bothered by the beeping of your metal detector. This will also benefit you by allowing you to hear weak signals.
If someone asks for help recovering a lost item assist them if possible. Don’t expect a reward but if they do give you a reward be appreciative. If you can’t help them located the item recommend The Ring Finders at theringfinders.com.
Return finds if you find a school or institutional ring. Try contacting them to assist in locating the owner. If you find an Apple watch, try charging it and then accessing the health app for their emergency contacts. If you find a cell phone try charging it and asking SIRI to call the last number dialed, mom or dad. You may also see the last few messages or missed calls and attempt to contact them.
Do not hunt in the water that has Salvage lease in place. Shipwreck salvages have received leases from the state granting them EXCLUSIVE rights to the areas where they have discovered ship wrecks and treasures. Detecting in these waters can result in fines or seizures of equipment etc. A map showing these areas is available at MDHTALK.ORG
Help beginners to the hobby. Multiple times I’ve observed a newbie walking down the beach with their coil on backwards. Take a minute and help them to promote this wonderful hobby.
Do not disturb another detectorist. Give them space as your minelab detectors may interfere with theirs. A simple wave will suffice not a long-drawn-out conversation.

To buy metal detectors and get metal detecting is fun, remember to stay safe, be observant of your surroundings. Wear protective clothing, sun screen, hat etc. When detecting in the water always wear foot protection. You would be surprised with all the broken glass, knives, fishhooks and other iron objects that can harm you in the water and could sideline you with a nasty cut or bacteria infection.

Language