Overview
There are a number of other types of licence or permit that might be needed when carrying out archaeological activities. The grant of a Licence or Consent from the National Monuments Service for your particular project does not negate the requirement to obtain these additional licences, consents or permissions (where needed).
Artefacts and Ecofacts
The National Museum of Ireland is the state’s repository for archaeological objects and artefacts, whether found during the course of permitted archaeological works or in any other circumstances. Ecofacts—including ancient animal and plant remains—are also considered to be archaeological objects. The following licences or permissions must be obtained from the National Museum, when needed:
- Licence to Alter an Archaeological Object—this is mandatory for any alterations carried out to archaeological objects, including (but not limited to) alterations for the purposes of conservation/stabilisation, identification, analysis or dating.
- Licence to Export an Archaeological Object—this is mandatory for the export of any archaeological objects or artefacts outside the jurisdictional boundaries of the state.
Find out more about how to apply for these licences from the National Museum of Ireland.
Other Types of Permission
It is the responsibility of anyone undertaking any works or archaeological activities to ensure that they comply with all other legal and regulatory requirements in carrying out those works, even if they have obtained a Licence or Consent from us. Additional permissions that may be needed (depending on the type of project) include:
- Marine Area Consent—for more information, please refer to the Marine Area Regulatory Authority
- Natural Heritage Derogation Licences—for more information about these licences, please refer to the National Parks and Wildlife Service
- Planning Permission—for more information about the planning process, please refer to the Office of the Planning Regulator