Archaeological Resources

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

Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/natural-resource-use/archaeology

The District of Squamish has integrated First Nations culture and heritage conservation into its Official Community Plan Bylaw 2500, 2017, as detailed below:

First Nations Culture & Heritage 

• 27.2(a) Collaborate with First Nations to protect, conserve and build appreciation for local archaeological sites, heritage and other cultural interests.

Heritage Conservation 

• 27.10(c) Work with land owners and developers to sensitively preserve and incorporate natural, cultural and built heritage resources in their projects. These may be significant view corridors, focal points, trails, landmarks, vistas, and identified heritage or significant trees. Incorporate heritage assessment in development review, parks and transportation planning, and infrastructure and capital projects.

All land development in British Columbia must comply with the Heritage Conservation Act (HCA), which protects archaeological sites, whether known or unknown.

Key responsibilities:

• Do not disturb archaeological sites without a permit, even if the site is on private land.
• Conduct due diligence by checking for archaeological potential early in the development process.
• Consult the BC Archaeology Branch or a qualified professional if your project is in a sensitive area.
• Follow permitting requirements under Section 12 or 14 of the HCA before ground disturbance.

Helpful Resources:

• BC Government Archaeology for Property Owners and Developers 
  If your property is within an area identified as having archaeological potential through this assessment, you may be required to take further steps before proceeding with development.

The District of Squamish is currently undertaking a GIS-based Archaeological Overview Assessment (AOA) Project to better understand and help identify areas with potential archaeological significance within the District. This work will inform land use planning as well as referral and permitting process improvements in 2026.