BLM Nevada Archaeology

BLM Nevada has a responsibility to manage archaeological, historical, and traditional-use sites—commonly referred to as cultural or heritage resources—on public lands. These fragile and irreplaceable resources are an essential part of our Nation’s heritage, and Nevada contains an exceptionally rich and diverse record representing more than 13,000 years of human history.

As part of its stewardship responsibilities, BLM Nevada identifies and evaluates heritage resources for their potential scientific, traditional, educational, experimental, and public-use values. BLM Nevada also works to protect and preserve heritage resources in place on public lands, ensuring they remain available for the benefit and understanding of present and future generations.

Permit for Archaeological Investigations (PAI)

Application for Permit for Archaeological Investigations

All persons conducting archaeological fieldwork on BLM lands in Nevada are required to hold a valid PAI prior to beginning fieldwork. For more information on the types of permits issued by BLM Nevada or for information on the qualifications necessary to obtain a permit, please see Appendix B of the BLM Nevada’s Guidelines and Standards for Archaeological Inventory Sixth Edition (April 2019) (Guidelines). Access application here: PAI Application

PAI Application Procedures

Applicants can refer to the pdf document, BLM-NV Permit for Archaeological Investigations Instructions, for guidance on completing the Application for Permit for Archaeological Investigations. Access PAI Application Procedures here: PAI Application Instructions

Counties listed by BLM Nevada District, to aid in determining adequate field experience, can be accessed here: Counties by BLM NV District

PAI Modification Procedures

Permittees can refer to the pdf document, BLM-NV Permit for Archaeological Investigations Instructions, for guidance on completing the Request for Modification to PAI. Access PAI modification form here: PAI Modification Request

Submissions and Contact

Please direct all applications, modifications, or questions to BLM Nevada's Cultural Resources Permitting Group at: [email protected]

Fieldwork Authorizations

All permits require a Fieldwork Authorization for each instance of field work, approved by the Field Office administering the public lands within the project’s Area of Potential Effect. Fieldwork Authorization requests shall be submitted using a BLM NSO-8151-01 form, following the form’s instructions, to the Field Archaeologist with jurisdiction of the lands involved. Access the Fieldwork Authorization Request form here: Fieldwork Authorization Request Form

Report Forms