If you’re preparing to buy property, start construction, or subdivide land in Utah, you’ve probably asked yourself: When is a land survey required in Utah? Whether you’re in Salt Lake City or rural southern Utah, knowing when you need a professional land survey can save you time, money, and potential legal headaches. This article explores the most common situations when a land survey is required—and why hiring a licensed surveyor is a smart investment.
Why Land Surveys Are Essential in Utah
Land surveys provide accurate, legal definitions of property boundaries and are often needed for real estate transactions, development projects, and municipal approvals. In Utah, surveys are especially important because of:
- Historic discrepancies in property records
- Rapid urban development
- Complex zoning and environmental regulations
- Varying terrain and access issues
Common Situations When a Land Survey Is Required
1. Buying or Selling Property
Before finalizing a property sale, especially for larger parcels or commercial land, a boundary survey is often required to:
- Confirm legal property lines
- Identify easements or encroachments
- Satisfy title company or lender requirements
Pro Tip: If you’re buying land with unclear boundaries or no recent survey, it’s smart to request one before closing.
2. New Construction or Remodeling
Most cities and counties in Utah require a land survey before issuing building permits. This ensures:
- Structures don’t violate setback requirements
- You’re not building on neighboring property
- Accurate site planning and elevation data
3. Subdividing Land
If you’re dividing a property into two or more lots (for resale or development), a subdivision survey is legally required. This type of survey must be reviewed and approved by your local municipality or county.
4. Resolving Boundary Disputes
When neighboring property owners disagree over fence lines, easements, or ownership boundaries, a survey can legally clarify the issue. Courts often rely on surveys from licensed professionals during legal disputes.
5. Applying for a Mortgage or Title Insurance
In many cases, lenders or title companies require a current survey before approving financing or issuing title insurance—especially on older properties or vacant land.
6. Zoning and Planning Applications
For rezoning requests, annexations, or land development plans, municipalities will often require:
- A boundary survey
- A topographic survey
- A legal description prepared by a surveyor
Are Land Surveys Always Required by Law?
Not always—but they are often strongly recommended. For example:
- Utah doesn’t require a survey with every home sale, but many buyers request one for peace of mind.
- Building codes may allow smaller remodeling jobs without a survey—but adding square footage or altering structural layout usually requires one.
Still unsure? Always check with your city or county’s building department before proceeding without a survey.
What Happens if You Skip a Survey?
You risk:
- Building on land you don’t own
- Legal action from neighbors
- Invalidation of your title insurance
- Delays in getting permits
- Difficulty selling your property later
Who Can Legally Perform Surveys in Utah?
Only a licensed professional land surveyor (PLS) can conduct legal surveys in Utah. You can verify licenses through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
For more information about survey requirements during home buying, Rocket Mortgage offers a great homeowner’s guide.
Conclusion: When Is a Land Survey Required in Utah?
To revisit the original question: When is a land survey required in Utah? You’ll need one for real estate closings, construction projects, land subdivisions, boundary disputes, zoning changes, and more. While not always mandatory, a professional land survey offers peace of mind, legal protection, and better project planning.
Call to Action
Need a survey in Salt Lake City or anywhere in Utah? Cook Surveying provides accurate, timely, and professional land surveys for homeowners, developers, and municipalities. Contact us today to schedule your survey and get clarity on your property.
