Metal detecting and treasure hunting prohibited on Southport protected sites

Southport residents are reminded that metal detecting and treasure hunting are strictly prohibited on historic and protected properties within the city. These activities, while popular hobbies, can cause significant harm to sites legally protected under both state and federal law.

Several Southport locations are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, affording them heightened legal protections. These include the Fort Johnston premises (encompassing the hilltop grounds, the area "down the hill," and the NC Maritime Museum at Southport site), the Old Brunswick County Courthouse / City Hall, the Old Brunswick County Jail, and the John N. Smith Cemetery. Digging, probing, or using metal detectors at any of these locations without specific authorization is unlawful.

Violations of these protections can lead to serious consequences. The federal Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) prohibits unauthorized excavation, removal, or damage of archaeological resources on protected properties, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. North Carolina law mirrors these protections, imposing fines of up to $2,000 per day and up to six months in jail for unauthorized digging or artifact collection on state-owned land. Equipment used for metal detecting may also be seized.

The Division of State Historic Sites and the State Parks system require a Special Activity Permit for metal detector use, which is typically granted only for locating recently lost personal items, not for hobby detecting.

If historical items are discovered accidentally, residents are urged not to keep them, clean them, move them, or post them on social media. Instead, discoveries should be reported and items turned in to locations such as the Fort Johnston Visitors Center and Museum, the NC Maritime Museum at Southport, Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, or Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Staff at these locations can ensure proper evaluation and referral to the NC Office of State Archaeology.

Metal detecting is permitted only on private property with landowner permission. On public lands, including city, state, and federal properties, it is prohibited unless explicitly authorized.

Residents who witness illegal metal detecting or digging on protected Southport properties are encouraged to report the activity to the Southport Police Department at (910) 457-7911 for local or city-owned properties, or the NC Office of State Archaeology at (919) 814-6550 for state-owned historic sites. When reporting, provide the exact location, descriptions of individuals and actions, date and time, and any photos or videos if safely obtainable.

Protecting Southport's rich history is a shared responsibility. Unauthorized artifact removal damages cultural heritage and is a criminal offense. Vigilance and proper reporting help preserve the past for future generations.