Archaeological Excavation Permit

What is the Purpose of this Permit?

A permit from the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) must be obtained prior to any excavation or other actions that will alter, dig into, deface, or remove archaeological resources, skeletal remains, non-Indian or Native Indian graves, cairns, or glyptic records. DAHP should be contacted before beginning a project. This office can help determine if historic or archaeological sites or graves would be affected. A historic/archaeological excavation assessment may be required. In addition, the status of any sites or structures listed in or eligible for listing in the State or National Register of Historic Places or Local Landmark designation may need to be determined. Plans for protection or mitigation measures may be a condition of any permit issued.

Who issues this Permit?

Department of Archaeology & Historic Preservation

What Activities Require this Permit?

Excavating, altering, defacing, or removing archaeological objects or resources or Native Indian graves, cairns or glyptic records, or non-Indian historic cemeteries.

How Much Will this Permit Cost?

None for technical assistance.

Where Can I Get the Application for this Permit?

The application which is called 'Archaeological Site Alteration and Excavation Permit', is online and can be downloaded at http://www.dahp.wa.gov/archaeological-permitting.

Do I Need to Include Anything with my Application?

Applications are not accepted online; however, application forms may be downloaded online. The full list of requirements to be submitted with the application can be found at WAC 25-48-060.

Is the Decision on my Permit Dependent on Anything Besides the Information in my Application?

DAHP is required to notify the affected Indian Tribes when a permit is received, and allow the Tribes 30 days to comment upon the application. DAHP must consider comments received from Tribal representatives when issuing or denying the permit and the issuance of terms and conditions. Tribes can request mitigation measures (WAC 25-48-070). DAHP must also consider the past record of previous civil or criminal penalties against the applicants (RCW 27.53.060 (6)).

How Long Will it Take to Review my Application?

Where do I Submit my Application?

Submit your application directly to DAHP. The applications are reviewed for 30 days by the affected tribes, the archaeological community, DAHP, the landowner, the local jurisdiction, any involved state agencies, and any other affected party.

How Long is my Permit Valid?

Varies according to how much time the applicant needs to do the work.

What is the Appeal Process for the Permit?

Appeals are sent to the Director of the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

Legal Authority:

• Chapter 25-48, Archaeological Excavation Permit WAC
• Chapter 27.44, Indian Graves and Records RCW
• Chapter 27.53, Archaeological Sites and Resources RCW
• Chapter Chapter 68.60, Abandoned and Historic Cemeteries and Historic Graves RCW

Links:

• Information required of an applicant

Statewide Contact:

* Permit information last updated 3/25/2013.