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Request archaeological information

Last updated on February 14, 2024

Archaeological data and site records are available in certain situations to specific individuals or groups. This is how to find out if you qualify, and if so, how to request them.

How to request archaeological information about a property or area

Qualified parties like private property owners, industry, land title conveyance professionals, and Indigenous, local or provincial governments can ask for archaeological information about, and advice on, a specific property or area. This service is free of charge, and our current estimated response time is stated in the banner at the top of the page.

To make a request, please review these 10 conditions that explain who you can legally share the information with and what you can use the data for, and then submit an online Archaeological Information Request Form.

What if I need the information sooner?

For faster service, a professional consulting archaeologist can also provide you with the information you need. You can find one by Googling "archaeologists near me” or by searching the BC Association of Professional Archaeologists website.

The Heritage Conservation Act recognizes the historical, cultural, scientific, spiritual, and educational value of archaeological sites to First Nations, local communities, and the public. 

The Heritage Conservation Act Transformation Project is currently underway.

This policy presents the categories of available information, limitations on distribution, and methods of accessing archaeological information. 

Appendix A, located at the end of the Policy document, further describes each information category with the associated distribution limitations and access methods.

Contact information

Contact us if you have questions about archaeological sites in B.C.

Office
250-953-3334
Email
Archaeology@gov.bc.ca
Mailing
Archaeology Branch
PO Box 9816
Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, B.C.
V8W 9W3
Address
(By appointment)
Archaeology Branch
2975 Jutland Street
Victoria, B.C.