Metal detecting underwater in Florida

[achanceforgold]

Ok. That makes sense. Just to be sure:

1. If you find a Spanish coin on the beach, do you have to turn that over to the state?
2. What if you find one underwater in non-leased waters?

Florida beaches cannot be owned.
But the state and local municipalities can regulate them.

Most all beaches in Florida are open to Public.
But The Federal government has issued some beaches off limits.
Areas around Cape Canaveral for example.

Metal detecting is not allowed on Federal Designated beaches.
Canaveral Sea Shore as an example. Green is the National Parks

All other Beaches
From the low tide line of the water to the foot of the sand dunes is open territory.
Finders Keepers. My understanding is you don't have to report anything you find in this area.
Certain municipalities may have put a regulation on the local beach. You will have to check.
Some beaches are regulated due to security reasons. An example where the Navy Seals Train.
Or near where certain wealthy people live on Palm Beach.

But in general, all beaches are open to metal detecting. It is a huge tourist draw for Florida.
Now if you are splashing around in the water up to your waste with your metal detector.
Probably no one will say anything to you. Recovery boats can't access that area.
But if you have your diving gear on and splashing around, they will probably stop you.

Low tide water line to foot of dunes is open area.
Low tide line to three miles out, the State owns that area.
You have to report any artifacts found.
The Dunes are totally off limits everywhere.
Don't go on the Dunes, stay on the walking paths.

If a homeowner along the beach comes out saying that is their beach. Tell the go to H E double toothpick.
No one can own the beach in Florida. I've had people who live in Condo complex's trying to claim the beach in front of their Condos was theirs.... Nope. These are mostly Northerners who don't understand. It is the "Free State of Florida."

Check with the locals if there are any restrictions on a certain beach.

and check with this poster here on TN
he'll be able to give you all the info on leases.
https://www.treasurenet.com/threads/treasure-diving-business-opportunity.709596/

 

[Treasure_Hunter]

What you find on the beach above the water line is yours.