Our  Relic Hunters Code of Ethics

#1)  Always know and try to abide by all laws and regulations governing the area that you are searching.

#2)  Respect the boundaries of private property and never enter occupied lands without the owner's permission.

#3)  Always leave property in better condition that you find it by filling all holes and appropriately disposing of any litter that you find.

#4)  Always be safe, courteous and considerate.

#5)  Never damage any structure, sign, gate, wildlife habitat, vegetation or other property, whether natural or man-made.

 

EXPLANATIONS

#1)  Everyone knows that you should never break the law, especially when representing the hobby of metal detecting. This is a good policy to follow. However, there are some instances in which you will find yourself using your own judgment in "grey areas of the law. The best practice is to assume that you will be caught, and decide whether or not the ends justify the means.

#2)  Everyone knows that you should never trespass on private property. This is a good policy to follow. However, there are some instances in which you will find yourself using your own judgment based on your particular morals. For instance, you may come across a site scheduled for demolition. Most corporations prefer to deny access to metal detectors in these areas for liability reasons. The relics on these sites will be lost forever once excavation begins. Remember, it is usually easier to apologize than to get permission from a corporation.  The best practice is to assume that you will be caught, and decide whether or not the ends justify the means.

#3)  Everyone knows that you should always take any trash or litter away from the property that you are detecting on. This is a good policy to follow. However, there are some instances in which you will find yourself using your own judgement based on your particular situation. For instance, you may be in the site of an old dump. Obviously, it would not be practical to remove all the litter from an old dump. Also, one man's trash is another man's treasure. You would not want to remove something that another relic hunter might be interested in.

#4)  Whether or not an action or site is "safe" is in the eye of the beholder. One person may feel completely comfortable hanging by a rope to search the side of a cliff. Another may be afraid of insects, and only feel safe hunting in his mother's basement. Use your best judgment. You don't want to end up with a broken leg 6 miles from your car. As for being courteous, always show respect, and try to be friendly whenever you encounter another person. This will go a long way in your ability to continue searching without being asked to leave.

#5)  Really. NEVER destroy ANYTHING. That's it. No further explanation needed. Just don't do it.