Archaeological and historic sites

The location of known and suspected archaeological or historical sites must be taken into account when developments are planned. We have recorded over 22,000 sites locally.

Our region is rich in archaeology and historic buildings. We have a duty to record and preserve these important sites through the planning system.

Archaeology and managing development

The location of known and suspected archaeological or historical sites must be taken into account when developments are planned. This includes work that does not need planning permission, such as:

  • utilities or permitted development in medieval towns
  • land management, such as forestry

It is important to identify and consider issues at an early stage because this is taken into account when decisions are made. You'll need to include all relevant archaeological information into any planning application.

For further information and advice:

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 07342 060202 or 07721 504376

View our archaeological and historic sites 

We maintain a database of over 22,000 sites.

Search for an archaeologically sensitive site on our planning constraints map

You can also contact us to make an appointment to view the full record or request an extract:

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 07342 060202 or 07721 504376

You may also be interested in our historic environment map.

You can see things like old buildings, places where artefacts were found, shipwrecks, and special gardens.

View our historic environment map

Report a find

Under Scottish law any finds (not just precious metals) that might be archaeologically or historically important can be claimed by the Crown through the Treasure Trove system. 

It is an offence not to declare a find.

Report a find to Treasure Trove Scotland

They can assess if objects are significant and should be preserved. You should always try to:

  • record the location of your find as accurately as possible
  • reduce any potential damage to the object
  • inform the archaeology service

We can offer help and advice to report something you've found. The details of your find might also be added to our database. We also provide information and advice if you want to undertake metal-detecting.

Fees

Service Cost
Digital HER extract £100 per hour, plus VAT
Pre-application advice to developer/agent                    £100 per hour, plus VAT 
Validation of developer’s submitted: 
Desk-based Assessment                                
All sizes
£100 plus VAT
Watching Brief Method Statement                
All sizes
£100 plus VAT

Written Scheme of Investigation:

  • 0.5 hectares or less
  • 0.5 - 10 hectares
  • 10 hectares or above 

£100 plus VAT

£200 plus VAT

£500 plus VAT

Archaeological Mitigation Strategy 
Major and multi-phase applications                    
£500 plus VAT