An archaeological site is declared as such by a decision of the Minister of Culture upon an opinion by the CAC. The decision hads to be published in the official Gazette. The same applies for designation or re-designation of archaeological sites.

Archaeological site outside of settlements (i.e. no existing city plans or legally existing settlements) are protected by two kinds of protection zones: Protection zone A and Protection zone B.

Protection Zone A: Building activities are totally prohibited. Exception: construction of edifices or additions to existing buildings may be allowed, where necessary for the enhancement of the monuments’ sites as well as for facilitating their use. A ministerial decision sets the building terms for these types of constructions. Agriculture, stock-breeding, hunting or other related activities can only be carried out upon special permit. This permit is granted by a decision of the minister of culture following an opinion of the CAC.

Protection Zone B: Special rules apply set by a Ministerial decision for each site. An additional joint decision of the minister of culture and the ad hoc competent minister determines special building terms, land uses, permissible activities.

For archaeological sites within settlements the general rule goes that any intervention impairing the character of the urban web of the buildings or disrupting the relationship between the buildings and open spaces is prohibited. The protection zones applicable for archaeological sites outside of settlements can be also applied to archaeological sites within settlements. In non-active settlements it is prohibited to erect new buildings.

Only upon permit granted by decision of the Minister of Culture and subject to restrictions stipulated by law are the use, construction (only if they are compatible with the character of the settlement), restoration and demolition of existing edifices allowed. Within archaeological sites which are active settlements, special rules apply with respect to restrictions to ownership, land use or use of buildings.