Code of Conduct for DCDD UK
Our group is built on a shared passion for history and exploration. We understand that our access to private land is a privilege, not a right, and that our conduct directly impacts the public’s perception of metal detecting. This code of conduct outlines the principles and standards we expect all members to uphold.
Core Principles
Every member of our group is expected to operate with:
●Respect: For landowners, the public, and historical sites.
●Responsibility: For our actions, our finds, and the environment.
●Legality: For all national and local laws pertaining to metal detecting.
Landowner Permission & Site Etiquette
Our group’s first rule is to always obtain landowner permission before detecting. Since we already do this, our focus is on being the best possible guests.
●Follow Landowner Instructions: Always respect the landowner’s specific requests. This could include avoiding certain fields, parking in a designated area, or not detecting on planted crops.
●Leave No Trace: Our goal is to leave the site looking as if we were never there.
●Fill All Holes Completely: Use a proper digging tool to cut a neat, circular plug of earth. After retrieving your target, carefully replace the plug, press it down firmly, and cover it with any loose soil. The hole should be invisible.
●Take Your Rubbish Home: All non-historical finds—including modern coins, ring pulls, and rusty nails—must be bagged and removed from the site for proper disposal. Leaving litter behind gives our hobby a bad name.
Finds & Reporting
Understanding and adhering to the law regarding finds is a non-negotiable requirement for every member.
●Know the Law: In the UK, we must follow the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS). This means we must report finds of archaeological significance to the Finds Liaison Officer (FLO).
●Adhere to the Treasure Act 1996: If you find an item that qualifies as Treasure under the Act (e.g., gold and silver objects, or hoards of coins), you must report it within 14 days. Failure to do so is a criminal offense.
●Be Honest with Landowners: Be transparent about your finds. We always discuss an agreement regarding finds with the landowner beforehand. This builds trust and strengthens our relationship for future visits.
Public & Community Conduct
As a member of this group, you are an ambassador for the hobby. Your actions reflect on all of us.
●Be Courteous: If approached by a member of the public, be polite and friendly. Briefly explain what you’re doing and educate them on our practices.
●Stay Out of Sight: When possible, be discreet, particularly in fields visible from a public road or footpath. This helps avoid unnecessary confrontations and curiosity.
●Help Each Other: We are a community of like-minded individuals. Look out for the safety and well-being of other members during a detecting session.
Safety
●Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch for hazards like open ditches, unstable ground, or hidden debris.
●Do Not Touch Unexploded Ordnance (UXO): If you discover a suspicious metal object that could be unexploded ordnance (a bomb, grenade, or shell), do not touch it. Mark the location clearly and contact a member of admin immediately. This is not a time to be a hero; it is a time to be safe.
