What is the difference between a site survey, topographic survey, and site plan?
A site survey shows the legal boundaries, public utilities and utility poles, dimensions of all property lines, easements, rights-of-way, trails, etc. It must be stamped and signed by a Licensed Land Surveyor or a Registered Civil Engineer authorized to practice land surveying. A topographic survey shows the existing and proposed topography at contour intervals of not more than five feet. It shows all significant topographic features within 100 feet of the property, including all faults, watercourses, existing and proposed culverts, flood zones, and slide areas. It must provide spot elevations for existing grade and the existing ridge lines of the structures. A site plan shows the streets and lots, land use, trees, property lines, fencing, and proposed and existing structures in the vicinity of the project site. It also includes a vicinity map, the age of the structure, and a brief project description. For a more detailed description, see “Requirements for Design Review Applications.
