In the case of important urban and rural development projects (high-speed train lines, motorways, quarries) or when an application for a building permit is made, the Prefect of the region and his archaeological service can demand an archaeological evaluation. Inrap or a registered local authority service submits a detailed project (evaluation strategy, personnel…) indicating how the work will be conducted.
A contract is then signed by Inrap and the developer whether public (D.D.E., municipality, etc.) or private (property developer, private individual, etc.). The contract fixes the conditions of the evaluation, the date by which the report will be handed in and, where relevant, details of any equipment or assistance furnished by the developer.