You need a permit for archaeological research, inventory, or assessment projects in Yukon.
COVID-19 update on archaeological permits
While we're continuing to accept applications, there may be delays in the review and comments process. There may be limited capacity at reviewing agencies and Yukon First Nations as a result of COVID-19 impacts.
We'll issue permits provided that applicants who need to enter Yukon for this work follow the direction of Yukon's Chief Medical Officer of Health in regards to self-isolation.
Find information for people entering Yukon.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss please email asr@yukon.ca.
Archaeological site regulation permits
Apply for research permits to work at archaeological sites, including the wreck of the A.J. Goddard. Archaeological research in Yukon must follow the Archaeological Sites Regulations.
- Determine which type of permit you need.
There are 2 classes of Archaeological Site Regulation permits:- Class 1 archaeology permit: This permit authorizes archaeological research that does not disturb or in any way alter an archaeological site. Class 1 Permit holders can not collect artifacts.
- Class 2 archaeology permit: This permit authorizes the excavation of sites and the collection of artifacts.
- Read the Guidelines for permit holders
- Complete the application form. Note whether you're applying for a Class 1 or Class 2 permit. Fill out the fields needed for that class.
- Submit your application form.
Email: asr@yukon.ca
Mail:
Government of Yukon
Heritage Resources (L-1)
Box 2703
Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6
Allow at least 30 days for us to process your application. We will contact you with the results.
Access the A. J. Goddard shipwreck
The A. J. Goddard is a Klondike Gold Rush-era sternwheeler. It was discovered at the bottom of Lake Laberge in 2008.
To access the A. J. Goddard wreck site:
- Download and complete the A. J. Goddard permit application form.
- Submit your form:
Email: historic.sites@yukon.ca
Mail:
Government of Yukon
Historic Sites (L-2)
Box 2703
Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6
If you discover a new site during permitted inventory or research, you must register it with us. It will be given a designation known as a "Borden Number."
To register an archaeological site:
- Read and complete the archaeological site inventory form. The form includes guidelines on what you need to include in each field.
- Submit your form.
Email: heritage.resources@yukon.ca
Mail:
Government of Yukon
Heritage Resources (L-2A)
Box 2703
Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6
We will review the form and register the site. When the site is registered, we will send you a list of the Borden Numbers for your reports.
The Yukon Archaeological Sites Inventory contains records for all archaeological sites discovered in the territory. You can request access to this database.
To request archaeological sites information:
- Download the license agreement and guidelines.
- Fill out "Schedule A" of the form and submit it.
Email: heritage.resources@yukon.ca
Mail:
Government of Yukon
Heritage Resources (L-2A)
Box 2703
Whitehorse, YT Y1A 2C6 - We will review your request and contact you with the results.
- We will release any existing archaeological data for your study area after you submit an original copy of the signed:
- Licence Agreement; and
- "Schedule A".
Access to archaeological site locations and information is regulated by legislation.
For questions about the registration process or about the inventory, email: heritage.resources@yukon.ca or phone: 867-667-5983 or toll free in Yukon 1-800-661-0408 ext. 5983.