If you’ve been told you need a land survey, your next question is usually: what type of land survey do I actually need?
That’s a common question for Utah homeowners and business owners, and the answer depends on what you plan to do with your property.
Understanding the different types of land surveys in Utah can help you avoid unnecessary costs, delays, or surprises during construction, buying, or development.
Why There Are Different Types of Land Surveys
Not all land surveys serve the same purpose. Some are focused on property lines, others on elevation, and some are required by lenders or local authorities. Choosing the correct survey ensures accuracy, legal compliance, and peace of mind.
A licensed land surveyor evaluates your goals, property type, and location before recommending the appropriate survey.
Boundary Surveys
A boundary survey is the most common type of land surveying for homeowners in Utah. It determines the exact property lines and marks the corners of your land.
Boundary surveys are often used when:
- Buying or selling a home
- Installing fences or walls
- Resolving property line disputes
- Adding structures near lot boundaries
This type of land survey helps prevent disagreements with neighbors and ensures improvements are built in the correct location.
Topographic Surveys
A topographic survey maps the elevation and physical features of a property. It shows slopes, contours, drainage patterns, and natural or man-made features.
Topographic surveys are commonly used for:
- New construction projects
- Drainage or grading plans
- Landscaping design
- Engineering and site planning
In Utah, where terrain can vary greatly, topographic surveys are especially valuable for mountain or hillside properties.
ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys
An ALTA/NSPS land title survey is a highly detailed survey often required for commercial properties or real estate transactions involving lenders.
This survey includes:
- Boundary lines
- Easements
- Rights of way
- Improvements and access points
ALTA surveys must meet national standards set by the American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors. More information about these standards can be found at the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping website at https://www.acsm.net.
Construction and Building Layout Surveys
A construction survey, sometimes called a building layout survey, ensures structures are placed in the correct location according to approved plans.
These surveys are used to:
- Position foundations
- Verify building setbacks
- Ensure compliance with permits and zoning
Construction surveys help avoid costly mistakes that could require rebuilding or permit corrections.
Subdivision and Land Development Surveys
Subdivision surveys are used when dividing land into multiple parcels. These are typically required for development projects and must meet local and state regulations.
Land development surveys often involve coordination with municipalities and must comply with licensing standards regulated by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing, which you can review at https://dopl.utah.gov.
Which Land Survey Do You Need?
The right survey depends on your goals. For example:
- Buying a home usually requires a boundary survey
- Building on uneven land often requires a topographic survey
- Commercial transactions may require an ALTA survey
If you are unsure, a licensed land surveyor can review your situation and recommend the appropriate survey type.
Frequently Asked Questions About Land Surveys in Utah
What is the most common land survey for homeowners?
Boundary surveys are the most common for residential properties.
Do I need more than one type of survey?
In some cases, yes. For example, a boundary survey and a topographic survey may both be needed for construction.
Are land surveys required before building in Utah?
Many municipalities require a survey before issuing permits, especially for new construction or additions.
How accurate are modern land surveys?
Licensed land surveyors use advanced equipment and research methods to ensure high accuracy.
How long does a land survey last?
A survey does not expire, but changes to the property or surrounding land may require an updated survey.
Conclusion: Understanding the Different Types of Land Surveys in Utah
Understanding the different types of land surveys in Utah helps homeowners and business owners make informed decisions before buying, building, or developing property. Choosing the correct survey saves time, money, and frustration while protecting your investment.
Call to Action
If you’re not sure which type of land survey your property needs, working with a licensed Utah land surveyor can make the process simple and stress-free. A professional review of your project goals and property details ensures you get the right survey the first time.
