Archaeological sites contain physical remains of human activity and are protected for historical, cultural, scientific and educational value. Under the Heritage Conservation Act, sites can be designated as protected or become automatically protected if archaeological artifacts are found. There are many unknown sites that would be subject to automatic protection that are only discovered through the construction process.
The provincial Archaeology Branch administers the Heritage Conservation Act as it relates to archaeological sites. To check if your site contains or may contain archaeological artifacts, or if you discover archaeological artifacts by chance, contact the Archaeology Branch by phone at 1-250-953-3334 or email.
For more information on archaeological sites and assessments, visit the provincial Archaeology Branch.