When preparing for a property purchase, land development, or legal dispute, a key question often arises: How do you choose a licensed land surveyor in Utah? With dozens of professionals available across the state, picking the right surveyor can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for, what questions to ask, and why working with a licensed Utah-based surveyor matters.
Why Licensing Matters in Land Surveying
In Utah, only licensed professionals can legally perform land surveys. This protects property owners by ensuring that:
- Surveys meet professional standards
- Boundaries are legally defensible
- Work is done ethically and accurately
You can verify a land surveyor’s license through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
1. Check for a Valid Utah Surveying License
Before hiring anyone, confirm the surveyor is licensed to work in Utah. You can do this by:
- Asking for their PLS (Professional Land Surveyor) license number
- Verifying the license on the Utah DOPL search tool
- Ensuring they are in good standing (no disciplinary actions)
📌 A licensed surveyor can testify in court and file legal plats and records.
2. Look for Relevant Experience
Not all surveyors offer the same services. Be sure to choose one with experience in the type of survey you need:
| Survey Type | Look for Experience In… |
|---|---|
| Boundary Survey | Property line and title review |
| Topographic Survey | Elevation mapping and site grading |
| ALTA/NSPS Survey | Commercial real estate and title insurance |
| Subdivision Survey | Platting and municipal regulations |
| Construction Staking | Site layout and engineering plans |
📌 At Cook Surveying, our team offers expertise in all major survey types, backed by decades of experience across Utah.
3. Ask the Right Questions
When interviewing surveyors, consider asking:
- How long have you been surveying in Utah?
- Do you specialize in the type of survey I need?
- Can I see examples of past work or references?
- What tools and technologies do you use?
- How long will the survey take, and what’s included?
These questions will give you insight into their professionalism, process, and attention to detail.
4. Review Tools and Technology
A good surveyor uses up-to-date tools, including:
- GPS/GNSS positioning
- Robotic total stations
- Drone photogrammetry
- AutoCAD and GIS software
Newer tools improve accuracy, efficiency, and documentation—especially helpful for construction or development projects.
5. Understand Pricing and Deliverables
Survey pricing in Utah typically ranges from $500 to $3,500 depending on property size, type of survey, and terrain. Ask for a detailed quote that includes:
- Fieldwork and research
- Boundary markings or monuments
- A formal report or survey drawing
- Filing or permit documentation (if applicable)
Avoid surveyors who are vague about pricing or timeline.
6. Prioritize Communication and Responsiveness
A reliable land surveyor should be easy to communicate with, respond promptly to questions, and explain things in plain language. If they’re difficult to reach or unclear from the start, it may be a red flag.
Conclusion: How to Choose a Licensed Land Surveyor in Utah
To revisit the question—How do you choose a licensed land surveyor in Utah?—you should look for someone who is licensed, experienced in your survey type, uses modern technology, and communicates clearly. Take time to ask the right questions, check credentials, and review deliverables. The right surveyor can make your entire property process smoother and more secure.
Call to Action
If you need a dependable, licensed land surveyor in Utah, Cook Surveying offers precision, local expertise, and personalized service. We handle everything from boundary and topographic surveys to subdivision plats and ALTA reports. Contact us today to get started.
