DIF: Triple-Lock Code

DIF: Triple-Lock Code for Detectorists – Integrating Legal and Voluntary Standards:

The DIF: Triple-Lock Code for Detectorists combines principles from three key regulatory frameworks to establish the highest standards of responsible metal detecting. This ‘triple-lock’ system ensures comprehensive adherence to both current laws and voluntary best practices, alongside specific land agreement conditions. It is essential for all members of the Detectorists Institute and Foundation (DIF):

  1. The Code of Practice for Responsible Metal Detecting in England and Wales (2017)
  2. The Treasure Act 1996 (3rd Revision) and its accompanying Code of Practice
  3. Countryside Stewardship Agreement conditions relevant to metal detecting

The Code of Practice for Responsible Metal Detecting in England and Wales (2017)

The Treasure Act 1996 (3rd Revision) and its accompanying Code of Practice

Countryside Stewardship Agreement conditions relevant to metal detecting
Historical Research and Preservation:
  • Conduct preliminary historical research to gauge the archaeological potential of the area.
  • Consult with local experts to identify and respect sensitive sites.
  • Avoid digging into subsoil to prevent damage to archaeological deposits, thus preserving the integrity and context of potential historical sites.
  • Maintain thorough records of all finds, noting precise locations and conditions.
  • Protect the integrity of undisturbed archaeological layers during detecting activities.
Definition and Reporting of Treasure:
  • Understand and comply with the legal definition of ‘treasure’ under the Treasure Act 1996 3rd Revision.
  • Report treasure finds to the local coroner within the required 14-day period, or through your local FLO.
  • Ensure accurate and detailed location data for all finds.
  • Collaborate with archaeologists during the excavation of significant finds.
  • Note that rewards for treasure finds may be reduced or denied if retrieval damages the archaeological record.
Definition and Reporting of Treasure:
  • Understand and comply with the legal definition of ‘treasure’ under the Treasure Act 1996 3rd Revision.
  • Report treasure finds to the local coroner within the required 14-day period, or through your local FLO.
  • Ensure accurate and detailed location data for all finds.
  • Collaborate with archaeologists during the excavation of significant finds.
  • Note that rewards for treasure finds may be reduced or denied if retrieval damages the archaeological record.
Countryside Stewardship Agreement conditions:
  • Avoid areas identified as having archaeological significance in the Historical Environment Record.
  • Do not detect on or near scheduled monuments.
  • Conduct metal detecting away from field margins, hedgerows, and all vulnerable areas in line with environmental management plans.
  • Ensure that detecting activities do not impede access to farm gateways, bridleways, or footpaths.
  • All finds, particularly those of potential historical or archaeological significance, must be reported to the local Finds Liaison Officer under the Portable Antiquities Scheme,
  • Comply with statutory requirements under the Treasure Act.
  • Uphold a stringent ‘leave no trace’ policy where all litter is removed responsibly from the site.
Archaeo Detectorists and Practitioners:
  • Recognise detectorists’ role in identifying both metallic and non-metallic artefacts as essential dating evidence.
  • Meticulously record all artefacts to provide valuable context.
  • Implement systematic survey methods, such as the SPIA Survey, to optimise find retrieval.
  • Adhere to detailed and partial artefact survey strategies for thorough area coverage.
  • Operate under archaeological guidance to integrate metal detecting with broader research goals.
SPIA Survey Methodology:
  • Employ the SPIA Survey’s systematic approach for artefact retrieval across predetermined transects.
  • Use non-metallic safety equipment, posts and markers to avoid survey interference.
  • Maintain systematic grid patterns for detailed searches based on archaeological assessments.
  • Flag all relevant finds for proper archaeological recording and assessment.
  • Utilise GPS technology for precise recording of find locations.
Reporting Finds through the Portable Antiquities Scheme:
  • Report all finds of historical interest to the Portable Antiquities Scheme to contribute to the broader archaeological record.
  • Provide comprehensive details about each find, including precise locations, to aid in archaeological context assessments.
  • Engage with the Scheme’s experts to understand the significance of finds.
  • Participate in data sharing that supports historical research and public knowledge.
  • Encourage responsible reporting practices among all detectorists.
Best Practices for Metal Detecting:
  • Adhere strictly to the 2017 Code of Practice for Responsible Metal Detecting in England and Wales.
  • Employ minimal disturbance techniques and restore landscapes post-detection.
  • Respect private property and privacy rights.
  • Foster an environment of ethical behaviour among the detecting community.
  • Engage in public education to promote responsible detecting practices.
Education and Continuous Learning:
  • Engage in DIF training and other educational opportunities to stay updated on detecting technologies and methods.
  • Keep informed about legal and environmental changes impacting metal detecting.
  • Understand the ecological impacts of detecting and implement conservation principles.
  • Undergo sensitivity training for handling historical artefacts.
  • Conduct public outreach to educate on the cultural and historical significance of finds.
Conservation and Custodianship of Finds:
  • Plan for the long-term conservation and preservation of artefacts.
  • Use suitable methods for cleaning and storing finds to prevent deterioration.
  • Transfer custody of artefacts to qualified personnel for further assessment and conservation.
  • Long-Term Custodianship Responsibilities: Ensure that responsibilities for the custodianship of artifacts post-discovery are clearly defined, facilitating a transition to responsible ownership.
  • Promote the importance of artefact conservation through educational initiatives.

Implementation:

  • Compliance with the DIF: Triple-Lock Code is required for membership, violations, particularly those affecting protected lands and archaeological integrity, will result in the potential revocation of DIF membership.

Conclusion: The Triple-Lock Code is foundational to ensuring that DIF members conduct their metal detecting activities with the highest regard for legal, environmental, and cultural standards, thereby safeguarding our shared heritage and promoting sustainable detecting practices.

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