The Office of State Archaeology is Kentucky’s central resource for archaeological site records, site number assignments, records review, and guidance related to the Kentucky Antiquities Act.
OSA is a research and public-service unit of the University of Kentucky and serves as the official repository for archaeological site information in the Commonwealth. Under the Kentucky Antiquities Act, archaeological sites and objects of antiquity discovered in Kentucky are to be reported to the University of Kentucky Department of Anthropology. OSA carries out this responsibility by assigning archaeological site numbers, maintaining the statewide archaeological site file, and preserving official archaeological records for research, planning, preservation, and public benefit.
OSA is also responsible for issuing permits for archaeological investigation or artifact collection on lands owned or controlled by the Commonwealth, state agencies, counties, municipalities, or other public entities, as directed by Kentucky law. Together, these site recording, records management, review, and permitting responsibilities help ensure that Kentucky’s archaeological resources are documented and that archaeological work is conducted responsibly.
OSA’s work is grounded in the University of Kentucky’s responsibilities under the Kentucky Antiquities Act, KRS 164.705–164.735 and KRS 164.990, and related state laws, including the Kentucky Cave Protection Act, KRS 433.871–433.885.
OSA Library (Archaeological Site Files)
The OSA library and archaeological site records are located at the William S. Webb Museum of Anthropology’s archaeological research facility at 1020A Export Street in Lexington, Kentucky. Access to OSA records is restricted to qualified archaeological consultants, professional archaeologists, agency staff, students, and researchers with approved access. Because archaeological site information can be sensitive, access to records is managed through appointment, review, and request procedures.
Library and records access is by appointment only. Current appointment procedures, library hours, records review options, and access requirements are available through the Records Reviews page and associated OSA guidance documents.
For general questions, please contact OSA at ky-osa@uky.edu or contact staff directly through the Directory.
OSA Services and Information
Use the links below to learn more about OSA services:
Report an Archaeological Site
Information for members of the public, landowners, avocational archaeologists, and professional archaeologists who need to document or update information about archaeological sites in Kentucky.
Apply for Permits
Guidance on Kentucky Antiquities Act permits required for archaeological work on state, county, municipal, or other public lands, and for applicable work involving caves.
Records Reviews
Information on requesting archaeological records reviews, project-area checks, research access, library appointments, and records review procedures.
Records Reviews FAQ
Answers to common questions about records review types, access requirements, appointments, fees, GIS reports, and archaeological site information.
Helpful Information and Links
State laws, preservation guidance, partner agencies, professional resources, and other information relevant to archaeology in Kentucky.
Contact Information
Location, mailing address, general contact information, and visitor information.