Archaeological Districts  

Santa Fe’s rich archaeological record reveals a long period of occupation and multiple chapters of settlement, beginning with Native Americans, followed by Spanish colonists, the United States military and Anglo and European migrants. Click here to read more about Santa Fe’s 12,000 years of archaeology.

There are three archaeological districts governed by the City of Santa Fe Archaeological Review Ordinance, some of which extend beyond the city limits and its annexations. These districts were established in 1987 to preserve and document cultural resources through the identification and assessment of archaeological sites.

The Historic Downtown Archaeological Review District covers the central area of Santa Fe and is generally located between St. Francis Drive and Camino Cabra and Coronado Road and the north part of Paseo de Peralta. This district includes the oldest settlements in the city, including the ancestral village of Tesuque (Te Tesugeh Oweengeh) Pueblo. Proposed ground disturbance of 2,500 square feet or more requires archaeological investigation in this district.

The River and Trails Archaeological Review District follows historic trails and water course, including the Santa Fe Trail, the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, the Old Spanish Trail, and the Santa Fe River. Proposed ground disturbance on parcels of two or more acres requires archaeological investigation in this district.

The Suburban Archaeological Review District includes all other areas that are outside the two districts described above. Proposed ground disturbance on parcels of ten or more acres requires archaeological investigation in this district.

The Archaeological Review Ordinance addresses other ground-disturbing activities, such as installation of underground utility and telecommunications lines. 

Archaeological Review Committee

The Archaeological Review Committee (ARC) consists of five members who are appointed by the Mayor and City Council. The membership is made up of three professional archaeologists, one historian, and one representative of the construction, development, or real estate community.

The ARC holds public hearings twice per month on the first and third Thursdays to review proposed monitoring plans, reconnaissance reports, treatment plans and other archaeological investigations, toward a final action of issuing or denying an archaeological clearance permit. ARC additionally approves or disqualifies individuals for inclusion on the City's list of approved archaeologists and historians. The ARC also has the authority to designate City of Santa Fe Cultural Properties Preservation Easements to further protect sites.

Members