Special Places Protection

The Special Places Protection Act (1989) provides the Heritage Division with a mandate for protecting important archaeological, historical and palaeontological sites and remains, including those underwater. It allows the government to designate outstanding heritage sites as Protected Sites, ensures that quality research is carried out through its Heritage Research Permit system; provides a stop-order provision when significant sites are threatened by development; and features stiff penalties for those who damage or destroy important sites.

If you wish to search for fossils and artifacts in Nova Scotia, you need an approved Heritage Research Permit. Permit guidelines and an application form are available for archaeologists, palaeontologists and those interested in looking for archaeological, historical, fossil sites and remains.

Palaeontology Permit Guidelines & Application 
Archaeology Permit Guidelines & Application

There are currently five protected sites:

• Joggins Fossil Cliffs 
  
• Parrsboro Fossil Site
• Debert Palaeo-Indian Site
• Fletcher Lock, Shubenacadie Canal
• Port Morien Old French Coal Mine

or by mail, 

Special Places Protection 
1747 Summer Street
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
B3H 3A6