Part of Archaeology

Online Permitting and Clearance (OPaC)

Submit online applications related to historic resource studies and approvals or get permits for research on Alberta’s parks and wildlife.

Fees will be assessed for both initial applications ($500 plus GST per application) and amendments or supplemental applications ($250 plus GST per application). These application fees are similar to those charged by other departments, and are revenue neutral, with the proceeds directed back into the program to ensure its continued viability and efficiency. Further information is available in the Online Permitting and Clearance (OPaC) User Guide – Historic Resources Application Fees – Frequently Asked Questions below.

Overview

Four types of applications can be submitted using the OPaC system:

  • Historic Resources Applications
  • applications for permits to undertake archaeological studies
  • applications for permits to undertake palaeontological studies
  • applications for Alberta Parks/Wildlife research or collections permits

Go to OPaC

Historic resources application

Submit a Historic Resources Application to get Historical Resources Act approval for development projects. See OPaC user guides on this page.

Archaeological permit application

Qualified archaeologists can apply for permits to undertake studies in Alberta. The results of these studies are also submitted through OPaC. See OPaC user guides on this page.

Newly qualified archaeologists must contact Head, Regulatory Approvals and Information Management to activate the permit-related features of OPaC.

Palaeontological permit application

Qualified palaeontologists can apply for permits to undertake studies in Alberta. The results of these studies are also submitted through OPaC. For more information, contact Head, Resource Management Program, Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology.

Newly qualified palaeontologists must contact Dan Spivak, the Head of the Resource Management Program at the Royal Tyrrell Museum at 403-820-6210 to activate the permit-related features of OPaC.

Parks/Wildlife research and collection permit

Any person, agency or institution whose work involves wildlife research or collection in Alberta needs a Wildlife Research Permit and Collection Licence. Undertaking science and research in an Alberta Park or Protected Area also requires a permit. Applications for either or both are submitted through OPaC.

OPaC User Guides

Contact

Connect with us for Online Permitting and Clearance assistance:

Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-422-9180
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]

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