16.1 A: ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE AREA OUTSIDE SHELTER COVE

16.1.1 Purpose. The purpose of these regulations is to provide for reasonable mitigation measures where development would have an adverse impact upon archaeological and paleontological resources. (Former Section CZ#A314-52(A))

16.1.2 Applicability. These regulations shall apply to lands designated “A” on the Zoning Maps, except for the Shelter Cove area, which includes areas with great archaeological and paleontological value as identified by the State Historic Preservation Officer. (Also see, the section “Archaeological Resource Area Regulations for Shelter Cove”.) (Former Section CZ#A314-52(B))

16.1.3 Modifications Imposed by the Archaeological Resource Area Regulations. Wherever the provisions of these regulations conflict with or are inconsistent in application with any other regulations, the regulation most protective of archaeological resources shall apply. (Former Section CZ#A314-52(C))

16.1.4 Required Mitigation. Measures to mitigate adverse environmental effects of development within Archaeological Resource Areas shall include, but are not limited to, the following: (Former Section CZ#A314-52(D))

16.1.4.1 Relocate planned structures and roads to avoid or mitigate impacts on archaeological sites; (Former Section CZ#A314-52(D)(1))

16.1.4.2 Provide protective cover for sites that cannot be avoided; (Former Section CZ#A314-52(D)(2))

16.1.4.3 Where appropriate, and providing all parties concerned approve, the removal or transfer of culturally significant material by a professional archaeologist shall be permitted. (Former Section CZ#A314-52(D)(3))

and Ceremonial Sites. Notwithstanding the other provisions of this Chapter, whenever a development will involve activities which may adversely affect Native American graves, cemeteries, burial grounds, or ceremonial sites, the County will follow or impose the following requirements: (Former Section CZ#A314-52(E))

16.1.5.1 Consultation With Indian Associations. Prior to final approval or authorization of such development, the County shall consult with representatives of the Northwest Information Center of the California Archaeological Inventory (NICCAI), Department of Anthropology, Sonoma State University, and the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) and any known interested Native Americans. Such consultation will be directed to the questions of whether the project or operation will adversely affect Indian graves, cemeteries, burial grounds, or ceremonial sites, and whether there are reasonable alternative means

The Humboldt County Code is current through Ordinance 2784, passed March 10, 2026.

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Title III Land Use and Development | Humboldt County Code

of accomplishing the project or operation which would not adversely affect such graves, cemeteries, burial grounds or ceremonial sites. (Former Section CZ#A314-52(E)(1))

16.1.5.2 Required Mitigation Action. Based upon the information and recommendations received during the review (see, subsection 16.1.5.1), the project application shall be acted on in a manner that provides the best feasible protection to cultural sites. (Former Section CZ#A314-52(E)(2))