Subject to additional definitions contained in subsequent provisions of this title which are applicable to specific provisions of this title, the following words and phrases when used in this title shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Archaeological field investigation.” Extensive controlled excavation of an archaeological site to study the cultural history using professionally accepted means of sampling, removing and excavating archaeological specimens, also known as phase three archaeological research or data recovery.

“Archaeological specimens.” All artifacts, remains, objects or any other evidence of historic, prehistoric or anthropological value, whether found above or below the surface of the earth.

“Archaeological survey.” A visual inspection and limited sampling and excavation of an archaeological site to determine the characteristics and physical extent of a site, also known as phase one or phase two archaeological research.

“Archival record.” A record having sufficient historical value to warrant permanent preservation by the Commonwealth or a unit of local government.

“Commission.” The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission of the Commonwealth.

“Executive director.” The executive director of the commission.

“Historic preservation.” The research, restoration, rehabilitation and other activities furthering the protection, enhancement, preservation or enjoyment of historic resources.

“Historic property.” Any historical building, ground, monument or cultural remain committed by statute to the custody of the commission.

“Historic resource.” A building, structure, object, district, place, site or area significant in the history, architecture, maritime heritage, archaeology or culture of this Commonwealth, its communities or the nation.

“Pennsylvania Register of Historic Places.” A selected inventory of historic resources determined by the commission to be significant in the history, architecture, archaeology or culture of this Commonwealth, its communities or the nation.

“Private historical organization.” An organization constituted to engage in professional or nonprofessional activities within the disciplines of history, archaeology, museum management, natural history, the arts or historic preservation on an academic, scholarly or popular basis.

“Public officials.” Officers, agents and employees of the Federal Government, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, or any of its political subdivisions.

“Public record” or “record.” A record as defined in section 102 of the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L. 6, No. 3),¹ known as the Right-to-Know Law.

“Qualified historical or archaeological society.” A private historical or archaeological organization or other historical society which satisfies the requirements provided in section 307 (relating to qualified historical and archaeological societies).

“Significant archaeological site.” An area of land which contains extensive evidence of previous prehistoric or historic human habitation or stratified deposits of animal or plant remains or manmade artifacts or human burials.

“State Archives.” The Pennsylvania State Archives administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

“State Archivist.” The Director of the Pennsylvania State Archives.