The California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) is a comprehensive database that houses documents and materials related to historical buildings, structures, objects, archaeological sites, landscapes, and districts.
CHRIS operates through the California Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) as well as eight Information Centers (ICs) and the State Historical Resources Commission (SHRC). The ICs are located on California State University campuses and statewide museums, maintaining cultural information and resources for their respective geographic areas throughout the state.
The system provides cultural resource information to local governments, state, Native American tribes, and the public for a fee. While public-facing information includes summary or records searches much of the CHRIS database is limited to qualified individuals or organizations to protect the integrity of these sites and materials.
What Qualifies as a Confidential or Non-Confidential CHRIS Search?
Non-confidential CHRIS searches are generally used for planning purposes. Qualifying materials may include summary records, such as a checklist indicating any known historical resources in a study area, or a narrative letter, summarizing finds and providing recommendations regarding the sensitivity for recorded and unrecorded cultural resources.
A confidential CHRIS record search is used for detailed research, including archaeological sites, historic properties, cultural resource reports, or Geographic Information System (GIS) data. Because they may contain sensitive information, these searches are restricted to qualified researchers who meet specific professional standards, such as the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications standards, California State Personnel Board specifications, or other state requirements.
Why are Some CHRIS Searches Protected?
CHRIS record searches are protected by state and federal laws, including the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), providing mechanisms to guard sensitive information from public disclosure and avoid risks.
If exact locations of these sites become known, this exposure could result in physical damage to these properties due to looting or vandalism, unintentional harm from increased foot traffic, or impeding religious or cultural practices by local tribes or other groups.
Protecting confidential CHRIS information ensures that important, legitimate research and preservation efforts can continue while maintaining site integrity and the safety of historical resources.
Why Would I Need Information from a Confidential CHRIS Search?
There are various reasons developers or municipalities would require a confidential CHRIS search, including compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Utilizing a confidential search may also help avoid legal disputes and project delays resulting from sites and properties not being thoroughly protected. Receiving detailed, sensitive information may assist in planning construction and development projects in a way that avoids damaging these sites, as well as respecting any existing indigenous practices. Demonstrating due diligence in protecting natural resources also builds trust with the community and stakeholders.
CHRIS Historical Resources Consultants
FirstCarbon Solutions (FCS), an ADEC Innovation, has qualified consultants on staff who can help you access information from the CHRIS Inventory.