What are the most common types of land surveys?

•  Boundary Survey:  These surveys establish the true property corners and property lines of a parcel of land. Boundary surveys are typically used to obtain building permits, to resolve property disputes, and for erecting fences. 

• Stake-out: These surveys (sometimes called set-outs) are used to place markers on the ground delineating exactly where a physical structure ( building, road, railway line, bridge, etc.)  is to be built. In effect, the surveyor is transferring the design drawings of the architect or engineer to the construction site.

•  Lot Split: Lot splits are required to divide an existing parcel of land into two or more parcels. All surveys for lot splits include a plat of each new parcel and the legal description required to record the split. 

• ALTA/ACSM: ALTA/ACSM surveys are performed on commercial properties.  These are comprehensive surveys that determine property lines, locate improvements, and identify all easements, utilities and other conditions affecting the property. 

•  Topographic Survey: These surveys show all natural features (creeks, rivers, etc.), artificial features (fences, building, etc.), and elevations or contours on a parcel of land.

How long will my survey take?

While a variety of factors will determine the actual turnaround time, an average survey is completed within two weeks of your initial order.

What is the purpose of a FEMA Elevation Certificate?

Federal law mandates that a lending institution require the purchase of flood insurance for any property in a designated Flood Plane. A FEMA (elevation certificate) provides specific property data that the National Flood Insurance Program uses to determine your insurance premium rate.

What is a coastal construction survey?

 Any survey on property built near the Florida coast must refer to Florida's Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL), which governs construction activities seaward of a 50-foot setback line. Any construction between the CCCL and the water line requires a special permit from the state's Department of Environmental Protection. A coastal construction survey determines whether or not any portion of coastal property falls within the DEP's jurisdiction.

What is a drainage study?

Required by Sarasota County for all new buildings, this type of survey uses various elevation measurements to determine how  water flow on the property will be affected by the proposed new structure. 


Why is my drainage study taking so long to complete?

When all of our work on a drainage study is completed, the survey must be approved by a representative of Sarasota County Land Development Services. Until this approval is completed, we are unable to present you with the drainage study.