Conservation of Heritage Sites and Heritage Objects

The Heritage Conservation Act contains strengthened provisions to protect archaeological sites, and extends such protection to palaeontological sites and burial grounds province-wide.

The reality is that any single heritage site and the objects on it could bridge a vital gap in our understanding of New Brunswick’s human or natural history. Since valuable heritage objects, and the context in which they are found, can never be replaced if destroyed or altered, our collective approach to them demands constant prudence.

The legislation stipulates that all discoveries of archaeological or palaeontological objects, anywhere in New Brunswick, must be reported as soon as possible to Provincial authorities.  It makes no distinction between discoveries which are unplanned or spontaneous, and those related to pre-authorized research activity.

For more information on how to report the discovery of archaeological heritage objects, contact us here.

For more information on how to report the discovery of palaeontological heritage objects, contact us here.

Unauthorized alteration of any archaeological site, palaeontological site or Provincial Heritage Place in the Province is prohibited under the Act. Any proposed project which could impact such a location must be submitted for review well in advance to the Heritage Branch of the Department of Wellness, Culture and Sport (archaeological sites, Provincial Heritage Places) or the New Brunswick Museum (palaeontological sites).  Rigorous conditions would apply in any permit subsequently issued.

The relevant application form for Provincial Heritage Place alteration can be accessed here.

For further information on the process for alteration to an archaeological site, please contact us here.

For further information on the process for alteration to a palaeontological site, please contact us here.

For further information on the process for alterations to a Provincial Heritage Place, please contact us here.

During the review of such permit applications, it may be concluded that a more comprehensive evaluation process is required in order to determine how best to conserve the site concerned. In such a case, preparation of a Heritage Impact Assessment may be requested under the Act. This could involve the conduct of impact studies, presentation of a development plan, or providing other information required to assess the overall proposal.

Enquires on any of these provisions of the Heritage Conservation Act should be directed to the archaeology section.