Archaeology in B.C.

Heritage in British Columbia includes archaeological sites - the physical evidence of how and where people lived in the past.  

On this page

• Archaeology in B.C.
• HCA Transformation Project
• Inquire about contraventions, finds, or properties
• Access resources relevant to you
• Learn about permits and studies​

Archaeology in B.C.

​Archaeological sites are an irreplaceable part of history in B.C. and are critically important to First Nations communities.

There are over 62,000 known archaeological sites in B.C., 90% of which are of First Nations origin. First Nations have an ongoing connection to this history. Many archaeological sites in B.C. are culturally sensitive, contain ancestral remains, and have important sacred and spiritual value to First Nations in B.C.

Examples of archaeological sites include:

• Remains of ancient villages and cemeteries
• Hunting and food processing sites, such a fishing weirs
• Stone tool manufacturing areas
• Culturally-modified trees
• Ancient rock art
• Shell midden

Archaeological sites in B.C. date from recent times to 14,000+ years ago. Ongoing studies uncover new information. The respectful stewardship of these sites is a shared responsibility.

Heritage Conservation Act Transformation Project

Inquire about contraventions, finds, or properties

• Report a possible contravention
• Report finding an archaeological artifact or human remains
• Request archaeological information about a property

Access resources relevant to...

• Archaeology professionals
• Crown land and natural resource users
• Indigenous governments
• Local governments
• Property owners and developers

Learn about permits and studies

• Archaeological permits
• Archaeological assessments and studies