A particulate matter detection element 1 includes paired detection electrodes 12 for detecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas discharged from an internal combustion engine, and insulating member 13 made of electrically insulating material. In the particulate matter detection element 1, at least part of the paired detection electrodes 12 is exposed from the insulating member 13 in the direction perpendicular to the lamination direction of the paired detection electrodes 1, to cause part of the particulate matter to deposit thereon. The surface roughness of at least the insulating member disposed between the paired detection electrodes is between 0.8 μm and 8.0 μm in 10-point average roughness.