Archaeology

Archaeology Home Page

 
February 21, 2013
HCA Permit Applications must be submitted using the online Archaeological Permit Tracking System(APTS). 

Starting April 15, 2013, all professional archaeologists must use the Archaeological Permit Tracking System to submit HCA permit applications to the Archaeology Branch.  The following documents are available to help:
 Applying for APTS Access
APTS Application for Access Form
Completing and submitting a permit application in APTS

February 21, 2013
A new Permit Application Guide is now available

December 17, 2012
Information Bulletin Number 17 - Updated

This document clarifies the requirements for a Field Director who is not the permittee.                                                                                                 Read more >>

Process to Reassess Permit Holders' Ability

The process to reassess Permit Holders' ability to conduct work under Heritage Conservation Act permits is explained in this document.                                     Read more >>   

Culture Area Boundaries

A map presenting the culture areas of the Interior Plateau, Northwest Coast and Subarctic/Boreal Forest "culture areas" in British Columbia has been created.             Read more >>

November 1, 2012
Information Bulletin Number 12 - Updated

Guidelines for the lumping and splitting of archaeological site boundaries have been updated.
Read more >>


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Website Overview

This website contains information about the protection, conservation and public appreciation of British Columbia’s archaeological resources – the physical remains of past human activity.

At this site, you will find information about the laws, policies and procedures for protecting archaeological sites and artifacts in British Columbia – resources that range from local to international significance.

The site is divided into sections containing information tailored to a number of groups having an interest in British Columbia archaeology or a need to incorporate archaeological concerns into their planning and development.

  • Archaeology in British Columbia is an introduction to the types of sites found in British Columbia and explains what to do if you come across an archaeological site or find human remains.
  • Reporting Archaeological Artifact Finds explains why it is important to report finds to the Province and what to do if you encounter human remains.
  • Requesting Archaeological Site Records is a shortcut to our data request pages and allows you to receive information on site locations. Please note that this information is distributed on a need to know basis.
  • Archaeological Professionals need this site to access archaeological data and keep abreast of the policies and procedures that guide their work. New! The Archaeology Branch is introducing an online Archaeological Permit Tracking System.  Additional details are available at this link.
  • First Nations use archaeological information to integrate into their land and resource management planning.
  • Property owners and developers can find out if there is an archaeological site on their property and what steps they must take before developing within a protected archaeological site.
  • Forest licensees and other natural resource stakeholders should review for advice and requirements on implementing an archaeological resource management approach that will safeguard these sites and comply with Provincial legislation.
  • Local Governments have an interest in identifying archaeological sites within their jurisdiction to ensure that these sites are not damaged accidentally.