Archaeological Site Alteration

Archaeological Site Alteration

An application to alter a protected archaeological site. It is recommended that you consult with an eligible qualified professional archaeologist to complete this technical document. 

Related Activities: Archaeological Inspection Permit, Archaeological Permit Amendment, Archaeological Site Data Request

Contents:

About this Activity Guide

This guide summarizes the most common requirements and recommendations for your chosen activity and is designed to help you submit a complete application. Be aware that this information is for guidance purposes only.

Mandatory Authorizations

Authorization Name Link to Authorization Guidance Link to Application
Site Alteration Permit Authorization Guidance Apply Now
Site Alteration Permit with specific instructions for Registered Professional Foresters Authorization Guidance Apply Now

Costs

Cost may be a specific value or range of values. The cost includes GST, where applicable.

Authorization Cost Type Cost Description Cost Link to Details
Application fee Not applicable. Not applicable, however there is a cost associated with the hiring of an eligible, qualified archaeologist. Not applicable.

Eligibility Requirements

Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements prior to applying.

Requirement Description
Legal right to the land or authorization by land owner. You must be able to provide proof of your legal right to the land. Private land requires proof of ownership, such as a Certificate of Title. Crown land requires a copy of the Crown land tenure document. If you are not the owner, you must provide proof of authorization by owner.

Information Requirements

Requirement Description Link to Details
Application for Site Alteration Permit Description of proposed alterations, the specific location of the proposed development and a summary of what is known about the site to date. This may include summaries of existing documents (e.g., other reports). See form for detail. Application for Site Alteration Permit
Application for Site Alteration Permit with specific instructions for Registered Professional Foresters Description of proposed alterations, the specific location of the proposed development and a summary of what is known about the site to date. This may include summaries of existing documents (e.g., other reports). See form for detail. Application for Site Alteration Permit with specific instructions for Registered Professional Foresters
Maps Maps will show the proposed alterations at various scales. Maps will include detail such as proposed development(s) and will comply to standards. See link provided for detailed standards. Map and Shapefile Standards
Disposition of Materials Collected Name of branch-approved repository for materials collected during assessment.
Consent or Agreement Document Consent to use personal information in the application document. Certification that applicant is familiar with Heritage Conservation Act and the contents of the application. Note: additional client certifications can be included.

Potential Additional Requirements

Requirement Description When is it Required?
Archaeological Impact Assessment See Archaeological Impact Assessment Guidelines page for additional information. When there is insufficient information available regarding the archaeological site to determine if a site alteration permit can be issued.
Archaeological Site Data Request Terms Please refer to the following information for details on who can apply. To access existing archaeological assessment information for an archaeological site. Applicant must demonstrate a need/right to know this information.
Hire an eligible qualified archaeologist For further information you may wish to contact an eligible qualified archaeologist from the BC Association of Professional Archaeologist list. When alterations require concurrent archaeological work such as a site assessment, monitoring, or excavation.
Link Description
Archaeological Site Data Request Terms A web page providing archaeological data terms and conditions, including information on who can make a request.
Archaeology Permits A web page providing archaeological permit information.

Other Things You Should Know

Archaeology Information
Archaeological sites are protected under the Heritage Conservation Act and must not be altered or damaged without a permit issued by the Archaeology Branch. Information regarding potential risks to protected archaeological sites may be obtained by submitting an online data request form to the Archaeology Branch or by contacting a professional archaeologist via the BC Association of Professional Archaeologists (www.bcapa.ca) or via local directories. Visit the Archaeology Branch website for more information.

BCeID - What Is It and Why Get It?
BCeID is an online service that allows you to create a user ID and password to sign in securely to many Government services in British Columbia. The benefits of having a BCeID account include:

  • Stop and start. Save and return later to complete your application without losing any information previously entered.
  • Real time status information. Check the status of your application in real time.
  • Access your applications for multiple people (Business BCeID only) to edit or submit your application or check its status. To enroll in this service, visit the BCeID web page: FrontCounter BC - BCeID

Consulting with First Nations

  • The Province is committed to reconciliation as part of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People Act.
  • The Province is responsible for ensuring adequate and appropriate consultation and accommodation, it may involve the proponent in the procedural aspects of consultation.
Proponents are encouraged to engage with First Nations as early as possible in the planning stages to build relationships and for information sharing purposes. To get more information about the guidelines and procedure manuals that are designed to assist government officials and proponents with meeting consultation obligations, please visit the Consulting with First Nations web page.

Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides the most current and accurate information available to the Government of British Columbia at the time of publishing; however, we make no warranty regarding the completeness, currency or accuracy of this information. This information is for guidance purposes only and does not replace legislated requirements. Each application is unique and circumstances may result in additional requirements beyond those included in this guide.

Last Updated: July 14, 2023