Georgia § 12-3-80 - "Submerged cultural resources" defined; title and exclusive right to regulate investigation, survey, and recovery; exceptions.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 12-3-80 — "Submerged cultural resources" defined; title and exclusive right to regulate investigation, survey, and recovery; exceptions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-3-80. "Submerged cultural resources" defined; title and exclusive right to regulate investigation, survey, and recovery; exceptions.
As used in this part, the term "submerged cultural resources" means all prehistoric and historic sites, ruins, artifacts, treasure, treasure-trove, and shipwrecks or vessels and their cargo or tackle which have remained on the bottom for more than 50 years, and similar sites and objects found in the Atlantic Ocean within the three-mile territorial limit of the state or within its navigable waters. Title to, and the exclusive right to regulate the investigating, surveying, and recovery of, all such submerged cultural resources is declared to be in the State of Georgia; provided, however, that the Board of Natural Resources may determine and provide by rule that certain submerged cultural resources are of no cultural or economic value to the State of Georgia such that items or areas so designated are not subject to the provisions of this part, including any permit requirements of Code Section 12-3-82. (Code 1981, § 12-3-80 , enacted by Ga. L. 1985, p. 906, § 4; Ga. L. 1988, p. 945, § 1.)
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 12-3-80
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 12-3-80 cover?
Section 12-3-80 (""Submerged cultural resources" defined; title and exclusive right to regulate investigation, survey, and recovery; exceptions.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 12-3-80?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 12-3-80" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 12-3-80 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.