Finding and reporting archaeological objects, including treasure
The Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995 sets out the requirements for reporting of archaeological objects which may be found, and also the stringent legal restrictions relating to searching for such objects.
Archaeological objects in the care of Historic Environment
Historic Environment maintains a collection of archaeological objects which derive from excavations conducted at State Care monuments (those sites in the ownership or guardianship of the Department), or which have come from excavations which were undertaken, usually for research or rescue purposes, in previous decades.
Archaeological objects
The Historic Monuments and Archaeological objects (NI) Order restricts searching for archaeological objects. Anyone, including metal detectorists and divers intending to search for archaeological objects should be fully aware of these restrictions and the related offences. The Order also sets out the requirements for the reporting of objects which may be found, and related offences.
The Historic Monuments Council
Article 22 of the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995 sets out the requirement for the Historic Monuments Council, for the purpose of advising the Department on the exercise of its powers under the order.
Treasure legislation in NI
The law on treasure in Northern Ireland is set out in the Treasure Act 1996, as amended by the Treasure (Designation) Order 2002 and, since 30 July 2023, the Treasure Designation (Amendment) Order 2023
More information about what treasure is and what to do if you find it can be found at Advice for finders of treasure in Northern Ireland.
The Protection of Wrecks Act
The Department for Communities also administers the Protection of Wrecks Act (1973) in Northern Ireland’s territorial waters, within 12 miles of shore, and have designated the wreck site of the Armada galleass Girona for protection under the Act. The Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995 also applies within territorial waters.