When is Detection Device Consent required?
A Detection Device Consent is mandatory for the use of a detection device to search for archaeological objects at any location on land or underwater, or for the use and possession of a detection device at an archaeological site or monument that is protected under Irish law (unless the works are carried out under Ministerial Direction or Ministerial Consent).
A Detection Device Consent is required for archaeological geophysical surveys at any location, as well as for the use of metal-detecting devices.
Note: For certain types of archaeological investigation, it may be necessary to obtain other supporting consents or licences in parallel with the Detection Device Consent. For example, an Excavation Licence is required to use a metal detector to search for artefacts as part of an archaeological excavation; a Dive Licence is required at an underwater site.
How do I Apply for a Detection Device Consent?
Please complete the Detection Device Consent Application Form. Completed forms can be emailed to us at: licensingsection@housing.gov.ie
We also advise that applications be supported by a Method Statement that outlines how the detection device will be used.
The Method Statement should include (as a minimum) the following information:
- Summary of the proposed works, including purpose and details of duration
- Site description, including topography and present condition as well as any relevant past usages/events
- Relevant background information including (but not limited to):
- local archaeological and historical context for the site
- planning background and development description (if applicable)
- research aims and objectives
- Project strategy, including (but not limited to):
- size and extent of survey area
- survey and recording methods
- constraints on archaeological methods
- health and safety requirements and/or restrictions
- Project team and structure
- Reporting strategy, including delivery dates
- Mapping and illustrations, including (but not limited to):
- site location map: Admiralty Chart or OSi map (1:5000) for rural areas and (1:1000) for urban area (or appropriate equivalent)
- relevant historical mapping
- site plan (scaled) showing clearly the location, extent and layout of the proposed excavation
- plan of proposed development (if applicable)
Where can I see the relevant legislation?
- National Monuments Acts 1930–2014