Metal detecting is a popular hobby for many enthusiasts, offering the thrill of discovering hidden treasures and learning about the past. In Tennessee, there are specific laws and regulations that govern metal detecting to protect archaeological and historical sites. This blog post will provide a detailed overview of Tennessee's metal detecting laws, with bullet points for easy reference.
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) Title 11, Chapter 6: Metal detecting falls under the jurisdiction of TCA Title 11, Chapter 6, which pertains to historical and archaeological preservation.
Tennessee Antiquities Act: This act regulates the excavation, removal, and alteration of archaeological sites, artifacts, and relics on state lands.
Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA): This federal law protects archaeological resources on public and Indian lands, including lands managed by the state of Tennessee.
Obtain permission: Always get permission from the landowner before metal detecting on private property.
Respect archaeological sites: Do not metal detect on archaeological or historical sites without proper authorization.
No metal detecting in state parks: Metal detecting is generally prohibited in Tennessee state parks, with some exceptions (see below).
Report finds: If you discover artifacts or relics, report your findings to the appropriate authorities.
Metal detecting is allowed in certain areas of state parks, but only with a permit issued by the park manager.
Permits are issued on a case-by-case basis, and specific conditions and restrictions may apply.
To obtain a permit, contact the park manager at the specific park you wish to metal detect in.
Metal detecting is not allowed on any archaeological or historical sites within state parks, even with a permit.
Metal detecting is generally prohibited on federal lands in Tennessee, including national parks, national forests, and lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Violation of federal laws, such as the ARPA, can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment.
Contact Information
Tennessee Historical Commission
Phone: (615) 532-1550
Website: https://www.tn.gov/environment/about-tdec/tennessee-historical-commission.html
Address: 2941 Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37214
Tennessee State Parks
Phone: (615) 532-0001
Website: https://tnstateparks.com/
Address: Tennessee State Parks, 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave., Nashville, TN 37243
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Phone: (202) 208-3801
Website: https://www.blm.gov/
Address: Bureau of Land Management, 1849 C Street NW, Room 5665, Washington, D.C. 20240
As a responsible metal detectorist, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with Tennessee's metal detecting laws and regulations to protect our state's historical and archaeological resources. Always obtain permission from landowners before metal detecting on private property, and refrain from detecting on protected sites. By following these guidelines and respecting the laws in place, you can enjoy your hobby while preserving Tennessee's rich history for future generations.