Dive Survey Licence

What is this licence?

The licence is needed to carry out dives, surveys or other archaeological activities on wrecks or underwater archaeological objects. It is required under Section 3(5) of the National Monuments Act 1987.

How to apply

You can apply directly to the National Monuments Service. You'll need to detail each of the following elements.

Summary

This is a summary of the dive you're applying for and illustrations for your dive.

Location

You'll need to provide the following related to the location:

• A copy of Admiralty Chart or OS map (1:5,000) for rural sites, (1:1,000) for urban sites and/or 6” or RMP maps
• Topographical description
• Description of site location
• Survey information and aerial photographs (where available)

Objectives and context

Include a description of:

• Planning history and research objectives
• Local archaeological context – previous excavations/surveys
• Archaeological potential of the site/location

Survey area

A description of the survey area itself and the method of survey.

Constraints (if applicable)

Constraints on archaeological methods, including safety hazards and access.

Project team

• Outline team structure – number of divers/archaeologists/supervisors
• Backup measures
• Logistical support

Report

The types of report envisaged (and estimated timescales): Preliminary, detailed and publication.