Tools of the Trade / Record Keeping is Everything

Before a shovel enters the ground, archeologists and Historic Preservation office conduct a records search of the proposed project area.  By reviewing historic documents, photographs, insurance maps and newspapers on file in the City Archives, HP staff and archeologists can predict what may lie beneath the ground. 

According to Deadwood Codified Ordinance 17.04.090,

"No excavation shall be undertaken within the corporate limits of the city without having been first issued an excavation permit from the building inspector.  Approval may be contingent upon review by a registered professional engineer, city archeologist, city historic preservation officer and other city officials at the discretion of the city."

Under this local ordinance, if more than 10 cubic feet of earth is disturbed during a project within the Deadwood city limits, an excavation permit must be obtained before work can begin.