Site Evaluations for Archaeological or Historic Resources
When Required
State law
requires field inspections of project areas for cultural resources anytime
an application is made for a "discretionary" permit (a permit in
which the planning agency has the discretion to grant or deny the
activity).
Discretionary
permits include such activities as grading, lot splits, subdivisions, and
construction.
What is
Involved
An Archaeological
Research site evaluation includes a review of existing archaeological
records housed at the California Historical Resource Inventory office as well as
an on-foot inspection of the project area (including any equipment or material
staging areas). This work is completed by an archaeologist qualified in
both historic and prehistoric resource identification.
A report is prepared that
describes the project area, the results of the background record review, and any
historic or prehistoric cultural resources that were identified.
If resources were identified, the
report includes an evaluation of the significance of the resources and suggests
alternatives that will protect those resources while allowing the project to
proceed.
Final Product
The client receives 4 copies of
the final report (three for the planning agency and one for personal
files). In addition, a copy is sent to the California Historical Resource
Inventory office so the state files can be updated. All reports follow the
State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines for Archaeological Resource
Management Reports (State of California 1990).
For more information concerning
the legal requirements, click on the "Up" button and select the
"CEQA Law" button on the next page.
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