Are you allowed to metal detect on the beaches

Hi Shaun,

Thank you for contacting Ask An Islander. 

Metal detecting is allowed on most beaches in Prince Edward Island. However, metal detecting is not allowed on the beaches or properties of the Prince Edward Island National Park. 

Please note that If you find what you believe to be a fossil (i.e. plant, foot print or faunal), artifact (i.e. stone tools, pottery/ceramic, coins and others), ecofact (old animal bones), remnants of a shipwreck or signs of an old dwelling (i.e. stone walls, debris or a depression) please contact the provincial archaeologist as soon as possible at [email protected] or 782-772-2796. The person discovering such objects should state the location of the discovery and the date at which the discovery was made in their initial communication. Photographs can also be very helpful in determining the significance of these objects. Archaeological and paleontological objects should be left at their location of discovery unless they are endangered by cultural (e.g., areas of highly frequented by tourists) or natural processes (e.g., rising tides for beach finds). These objects should also not be altered (e.g., scratched, polished), marked or interfered with.

Enjoy exploring with your metal detector and have a great day,

Jonah