Framework and policy

The Fossil Management Framework (the Framework) recognizes government’s ownership of fossils as well as the scientific, educational and heritage value of fossils. It is a comprehensive approach to fossil site protection, impact prevention and access to fossil resources. 

On this page

• The Framework and Fossil Management Policy
• Framework management principles
• Framework management objectives

The Framework provides opportunities for fossil resource users, educational programs and community involvement where significant fossil sites contribute to B.C.’s natural heritage.

The Framework and Fossil Management Policy

The Framework was developed following public consultation. The Framework uses legislation, policy and procedures to protect fossils and fossil sites, manage impacts on fossils and manage access to fossils. It is supported by Compliance and Enforcement Branch to ensure laws, designations and tenure requirements are adhered to when associated with fossils.

Fossil Management Policy, amended in 2022, guides public officials who are involved in making decisions about the protection, management and use of fossils and fossil sites.

Site and specimen protection

• Guidelines for assessing significance of fossil sites
• Criteria for what constitutes a significant fossil or fossil site
• Legislative tools for site protection:
  • Land Act
  • Heritage Conservation Act
  • Park Act 
  • Mineral Tenure Act
  • Mines Act.
• Public education and recognition activities
• Site management through partnerships with First Nations, Local Governments, and non-government organizations
• Custodian guidelines
• Provincial export process

Managing impacts on fossils  

• Fossil impact assessment process and guidelines, including Chance Find Protocols
• List of British Columbia Fossil Resource Consultants to conduct fossil impact assessments
• Data sharing agreement for consultants requesting fossil sites data
• Reporting fossil finds

Managing access to fossils  

• Policy and authorizations to provide access to collect fossils for research.
• Recreational fossil collection guidelines

Framework management principles

Key principles for fossil management include:

• Fossils and fossil sites are important to British Columbia as heritage resources.
• The order of priority for fossil management is science, natural heritage, education and, where appropriate, commercial use.
• A management framework that recognizes the heritage value of fossils, the need to protect significant fossil sites and the interests of stakeholders is necessary.

Framework management objectives

Key objectives or best management practices for fossils include:

• Protect non-renewable fossil resources and fossil sites
• Explain the rules governing management and use of fossils
• Manage impacts on fossils from land use activities
• Encourage stewardship of significant fossil sites
• Raise awareness of the framework and importance of fossils
• Build knowledge of the nature and extent of fossil resources in B.C.
• Clarify the rights and obligations of the public, business, governments and other stakeholders
• Commit to best efforts in working with Indigenous governments on the stewardship of fossil resources and in collaboratively developing tourism opportunities related to fossils and fossil sites where culturally appropriate

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