/
/
VCRIS

The Virginia Cultural Resources Information System (VCRIS) is an online database that contains the inventory of buildings, districts, archaeological sites, and other types of properties. VCRIS allows researchers, cultural resource professionals, land managers, and other qualified users record sites and properties, as well as to conduct background research to support cultural resources management activities.

VCRIS Accounts Manager
sean.tennant@dhr.virginia.gov
804-482-8095

Public Viewer

  • Architecture/above-ground points and historic district polygons
  • Limited information about each resource
  • Available to anyone
  • Does not meet requirements for Section 106/Project Review background research
  • No login required; free

Licensed VCRIS

  • Architecture/above-ground polygons
  • Archaeology polygons (for qualified registrants only)
  • Archaeological survey boundaries
  • DHR Easement boundaries
  • Detailed information about each resource
  • Digital photos, reports, and documents
  • Meets requirements for Section 106/Project Review background research
  • Fees apply

Architecture Data Entry Basics [pdf] explains the VCRIS workflow including how to obtain a DHR identification number for a new property and how to update an existing record at the reconnaissance and intensive level. Information about recording historic districts is also included.

FAQ & Troubleshooting

Sensitive Archaeological Data

Virginia’s archaeological data is sensitive and protected under the Code of Virginia §2.2-3705.7 (10), the National Historic Preservation Act 54 U.S.C. § 307103(a), and/or the Archaeological Resources Protection Act 6 U.S.C. §§ 470hh(a). DHR limits access to detailed archaeological data accordingly. DHR screens resumes or CVs for qualified individuals (SOI qualified archaeologists, historic preservation planners, agency or tribal cultural resource managers). Qualified individuals are responsible for ensuring that sensitive archaeological data is not misused or inappropriately distributed by any authorized VCRIS users in their organization.

If you or your organization does not meet these qualifications and you still need to conduct research with DHR information, DHR Archives staff can help you find what you need.

No data was found
globe-light
VCRIS
globe-light
Public Viewer
globe-light
Full VCRIS help documentation
globe-light
VCRIS Accounts
globe-light
Searching for Information
globe-light
Data Entry: Archaeology
globe-light
Data Entry: Architecture
file-light
Architecture Data Entry Basics
file-light
Building Component Selections
file-light
Historic District or Complex Draft Guidance
file-light
Resource and Category Types

Frequently Asked Questions

VCRIS contains records for each property or site in our inventory. These records provide detail on archaeological investigations, archaeological survey, and DHR staff management decisions. The system includes an interactive GIS as well as a comprehensive digital collection of cultural resource management (CRM) reports and a growing collection of digital images.

Full VCRIS access including archaeology is limited to qualified organizations and individuals. Complete the VCRIS pre-screening form to find the best access level for you or your agency. If your organization is already registered in VCRIS, contact your Organization Administrator or DHR’s VCRIS accounts manager to be added as an authorized user.

License fees vary by duration and type. We offer complimentary data entry licenses, as well as Architecture (AH) or Architecture and Archaeology (AH & AE) access for 30-day and annual renewal periods.

Virginia’s cultural resource inventory contains detailed information about the location and nature of archaeological sites. Since archaeological sites may be at risk for looting and vandalism if this information is shared, these data are generally exempt from the Virginia Freedom of Information Act §2.2-3705.7. We provide access to detailed archaeological site location information on a need-to-know basis. However, if you or your organization produce publicly available maps, documents, or reports, do not include archaeological site locations. DHR staff are happy to provide you with technical assistance to safely share information in a way that meets your needs while protecting our irreplaceable heritage.

Detailed information is not available to the general public without a login, but DHR Archives staff members are happy to help. See below for contact info.

Contact Us

VCRIS Accounts Manager
MORE DHR PROGRAMS

Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits

DHR's Tax Credit program provides state tax credits to property owners who undertake the rehabilitation of historic buildings in compliance with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilita...

Highway Markers

The Highway Marker Program identifies and documents Virginia's significant historical persons, events, and places.  Our focus is on educating the public and providing accurate historical informatio...

Tribal Outreach

DHR's Tribal Outreach Coordination efforts are intended to increase recordation of historic sites and artifact conservation associated with Native American communities through outreach, collaborati...

Archaeological Collections

The Archaeological Collections programs of Curation and Conservation aim to ensure the proper management and preservation of archaeological collections. They provide for the curation, care, and tre...

Regional Archaeology Programs

Most of the department’s archaeological survey, field, and technical assistance activities are conducted from our three regional offices. If you have questions pertaining to local archaeology, need...

Community Outreach

DHR Community Outreach seeks to meaningfully engage African American communities throughout the state to enrich Virginia Cultural Resource Information System documentation on historic architecture,...