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Norfolk · beach metal detecting rules

Can you metal detect on Great Yarmouth beaches?

Depends on the beach

You do not need permission to detect on Great Yarmouth or Gorleston beaches. Other beaches in the borough need the relevant parish council's permission. Detecting is banned in council parks and open spaces.

Covers: Hopton-on-Sea to Winterton (Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Caister, Hemsby, Winterton)
Permission: Not needed for Great Yarmouth and Gorleston beaches. Other beaches: ask the relevant parish council. Tell the council about any commercial detecting, and report treasure to it within 14 days.
Watch out for: Parish-controlled beaches (e.g. Caister, Hemsby, Winterton, Hopton): parish council permission needed. Council parks and open spaces: banned.
What the source says: "You do not need permission to use a metal detector on Great Yarmouth beach or Gorleston beach. For any other beaches, you will need permission from the relevant Parish Council."
Source: www.great-yarmouth.gov.uk/beaches · 2026-08-14
Checked: 8 Nov 2026

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