UNDERWATER ARCHEAOLOGY GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS

Guidance on Investigations and Related Survey Standards for the Identification of Underwater Archaeological Resources in California

This document provides guidance for the identification and documentation of submerged cultural

resources in California’s coastal and inland waters. It was created in response to the growing need for

consistent, practical standards for underwater archaeological investigations conducted in support of

regulatory compliance, resource management, or research. Although this guidance is not regulatory in

nature, it is intended to support archaeologists, agencies, tribal governments, and stakeholders engaged in

the planning and execution of underwater cultural resources surveys in California.

Topics addressed include jurisdictional considerations, permitting requirements, recommended

qualifications for maritime archaeologists, prefield research, tribal engagement, and safety planning. The

document outlines methodologies for geophysical and diver-based survey, including side-scan sonar,

magnetometer, bathymetry, sub-bottom profiling, and visual inspection. It also covers scientific diving

standards, photogrammetry best practices, reporting expectations, and Geographic Information System

(GIS) deliverables.

Throughout, the guidance promotes the in situ preservation of submerged cultural resources and

emphasizes the importance of early, collaborative, and respectful engagement with California Native

American Tribes, consistent with applicable state and federal requirements, whose cultural heritage may

be represented in submerged landscapes. While designed to be broadly applicable, this guidance may also

inform the future development of formal policies by state and federal agencies such as the California State

Lands Commission and the Office of Historic Preservation.

By establishing shared expectations for underwater archaeological investigations, this document

supports the consistent and responsible stewardship of California’s diverse and threatened underwater

cultural heritage.

UNDERWATER ARCHEAOLOGY GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS