rules & regulations in Spain

I am thinking of driving down to Spain for a few days and taking my metal detector with me to check out the beaches.. Anyone know if there are prohibitions of using a metal detector on public beaches in Spain?? Coloma Gold

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Hello coloma gold

I have heard mixed reports on the status of Metal detecting in Spain. You seem to need an import licence to bring a detector into Spain. Some areas are outlawed some beaches have agreement with certain clubs. Not very clear at all and very confused responces from Spanish consulates.

Here is some feedback I got.

We all know of detectorists going to Spain who take their metal detectors with them, to "do" the beaches. Most of them don't seem to have any problems, but they could!

If you consult with the Spanish Tourist Office in London their general information sheet states "The use of metal detectors is not allowed unless an import license for the detector has previously been issued. Further enquiries should be made to the Spanish Commercial Office. The Commercial Office in turn will provide the following info (in brief):

Because the use of metal detectors inherantly involves the finding of national heritage/archaeological/treasure trove items anything found by this method of recovery could be covered by the relevant law (Historical Heritage) of 25/06/1985 & Royal Decree of 10/01/1986. It would then be necessary to comply with the complex proceedures outlined in these enactments, making it highly unlikely that any item discovered could be removed from Spain. The consent if given can take several months and if of historical/artistic interest it would be unlikely.

Basically they are saying anything found should in theory go through the appropriate assessment, even current coinage!

There is further legislation unrelated to the historical /cultural aspect which could cause a detectorist problems. The metal detector being used may not comply with radiation safeguard legislation.

Finally if this hasn't put you off. There have be complaints from local Naval authorities that use of Metal Detectors interferes with electronic communications.

These problems relate to both land and beach detecting in Spain.

The official advise therefore, is that is preferable NOT to use metal detectors in Spain.


Not very metal detector friendly at all.

Hardluck

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I have since done some checking and found the laws in Spain appear to be very anti-detectorist. I will keep my ears open however, since in many situations, what is written isn't necessarily what is fact.  For example, after first coming to France, I was told by many that detecting is against the law. That is not generally the case. Coloma Gold

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