A County Archaeologist is a local government employee in the United Kingdom with responsibility for overseeing development-led archaeological investigations required by PPG16. Nominated as the archaeological advisor by each local planning authority, the County Archaeologist recommends which developments are likely to threaten archaeological sites and advises methods of mitigating their impact, usually through the imposition of planning conditions.

Other responsibilities include maintaining the Sites and Monuments Record, managing the Portable Antiquities Scheme, education and outreach activities and co-ordinating research agendas.

In London the County Archaeologist's role is filled by English Heritage.