No. Magnet fishing in Italy is prohibited under the Codice dei Beni Culturali e del Paesaggio (Legislative Decree 42/2004), as unauthorized retrieval of submerged artifacts is classified as archaeological looting. The Soprintendenze Archeologiche (regional heritage authorities) enforce strict penalties, including fines up to €154,937 and criminal charges for violations. Recent 2026 amendments to the Piano Nazionale per l’Archeologia Subacquea further criminalize the practice, requiring permits for any metal detection in public waters.
Key Regulations for Magnet Fishing in Italy
- Cultural Heritage Protection: Under Art. 82 of the Codice dei Beni Culturali, all submerged artifacts older than 50 years are state property. Unauthorized removal constitutes theft (Art. 624 Codice Penale), with liability extending to the vessel or equipment used.
- Water Body Restrictions: The Autorità di Bacino Distrettuale and Capitanerie di Porto (coastal authorities) ban magnet fishing in rivers, lakes, and territorial waters without a nulla osta (clearance) from the Soprintendenza and local maritime authorities.
- Penalties and Enforcement: Violations trigger administrative fines (€5,000–€50,000) and criminal prosecution under Art. 175 of the Codice dei Beni Culturali, with repeat offenders facing asset forfeiture. The 2026 Decreto Cultura expands surveillance via drone patrols and underwater archaeology units.