How to Report Archaeological Finds

What to do after discovering a possible archaeological artifact, site, human remains or unexploded ordnance while metal detecting.

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Step 1Stop diggingDo not expose more of the object or widen the hole.

Step 2Record in placePhotograph the object and a wider landmark without moving it.

Step 3Protect the locationDo not publish coordinates or invite others to the site.

Step 4Notify the authorityContact the land manager; call law enforcement for remains or hazards.

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Bottom line

Leave it exactly where it is, document without disturbing it, protect the location and notify the land manager

Context is evidence. Moving, cleaning or posting an exact location can destroy information, enable looting and violate federal, state, tribal or local law.

Legal limitation: General information only—not legal advice. Verify the current written rule, property boundary, permit conditions and posted orders with the responsible agency before detecting.

Property-specific analysis

What the current rules establish

Ordinary artifact or possible site

Record coordinates privately, take overview and close photographs without touching, and report promptly to the park, BLM, Forest Service, state archaeologist or property owner responsible for the land.

Human remains or burial objects

Stop all activity, back away, protect the area and call local law enforcement or the coroner. Do not decide whether remains are historic or modern yourself.

Weapons or unexploded ordnance

Do not touch, move, mark directly beside or use a radio/phone at close range. Retreat by the same route, keep others away and call 911 from a safe location.

FAQ

Seven questions specific to this page

Should I pick up an artifact to photograph it?

No. Photograph it in place; its position and surrounding material are part of the evidence.

Should I post the location in a detecting group?

No. Public coordinates can expose the site to looting and further damage.

Who receives a report on BLM land?

Notify the responsible local BLM field office; human remains also require law-enforcement notification.

What should I record?

Private coordinates, date, overview photographs, close photographs and a description of how it was exposed.

What if I already moved the object?

Stop handling it, record the original and current locations honestly, and contact the land manager.

How do I handle possible human remains?

Cease work, do not touch anything, secure distance and call law enforcement or the coroner.

What if the find could be ammunition or ordnance?

Do not touch it; retreat, keep others away and contact emergency authorities from a safe location.

Verify the exact property before detecting

Carry the current permit, written rule and allowed-zone map.

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Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. General information only—not legal advice. Verify the current written rule, property boundary, permit conditions and posted orders with the responsible agency before detecting.