40.460.520    Archaeological, Cultural, and Historic Resources

A.    When a shoreline use or development is in an area known or with a low-moderate to high probability to contain archaeological artifacts based on the state’s predictive model and the potential impact of the use or development is considered a significant risk to the archaeological artifacts that may be present based on Section 40.570.080(C)(3)(k)(3), the applicant shall provide for a site inspection and evaluation by a professional archaeologist prior to issuance of any shoreline permit or approval. Site inspection requirements shall be consistent with the predetermination provisions in Section 40.570.080(C)(3)(k). Work may not begin until the inspection and evaluation have been completed and the county has issued its permit or approval.

(Amended: Ord. 2015-12-12; Ord. 2018-11-06)

B.    If any item of possible archaeological interest (including human skeletal remains) is discovered on site, all work shall immediately stop, and the county, State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP), and affected Native American tribe(s) shall be notified of the discovery. A stop-work order will be issued. The shoreline permit will be temporarily suspended. All applicable state and federal permits shall be obtained as a condition of resumption of development activities. Development activities may resume only upon the applicant’s receipt of county approval.

(Amended: Ord. 2015-12-12)

C.    If the discovery includes human skeletal remains, the find must be secured and protected from further disturbance; the Clark County Medical Examiner and local law enforcement shall be notified in the most expeditious manner possible. The County Medical Examiner will assume jurisdiction over the site and the human skeletal remains, and will make a determination of whether they are crime-related. If they are not, DAHP will take jurisdiction over the remains and report them to the appropriate parties. The State Physical Anthropologist will make a determination of whether the remains are Native American and report that finding to the affected parties. DAHP will handle all consultation with the affected parties as to the preservation, excavation, and disposition of the remains.

(Added: Ord. 2012-07-16)