Do I Need a Survey for a Building Permit?
Most jurisdictions require a boundary survey or site survey for new construction and additions. The survey establishes property lines, setbacks, easements, and existing topography — all essential for permit review.
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When surveys are required
New construction almost always requires an ALTA or boundary survey. Additions need one if they're near setback lines. Even interior remodels may trigger a survey requirement if the jurisdiction needs to verify the existing building location. Grading permits always require topographic surveys.
What the survey shows
Property boundaries, building setback lines, easements (utility, access, drainage), existing structures, topography with elevations, flood zone designation, and trees (in jurisdictions with tree protection ordinances). The civil engineer and architect both work from the survey — it's the foundation of the site plan.
Cost and timing
A residential boundary survey runs $500-$1,500. Commercial ALTA surveys run $2,000-$8,000 depending on site size and complexity. Topographic surveys add $1,000-$5,000. Order the survey early — everything downstream (site plan, grading, foundation design) depends on it.
The bottom line
Most new construction and additions require a survey. Order it early — the architect and civil engineer can't start site design without it.
Torch Engineering PLLC · (480) 490-0064 · info@torchengineering.com — PE stamping backed by Apex Grid Engineering.