A NSW Government website

Notify discovery of a relic

When and how to notify if archaeological relics are uncovered on land in New South Wales.

 

Under section 146 of the Heritage Act 1977 you must notify us if you uncover a relic: 

  • that was not identified or considered in the supporting documents for a section 140 or section 60 approval
  • that is unexpectedly uncovered when there is no section 140 excavation permit or section 60 approval in place
  • when a section 139(4) exception is being used

You may need to do additional assessment and be granted approval before the work or activity can continue in the affected area, depending on the nature of the discovery.

How to notify

If you unintentionally or unexpectedly uncover a relic, depending on your situation, there are 2 different ways you could notify us.

Check this information to confirm the correct way to notify us.

Contact us

Heritage NSW

Phone: 02 9873 8500

Email: heritagemailbox@environment.nsw.gov.au