A Florida property survey is a document prepared by a licensed land surveyor that establishes the boundaries of a property, the location of existing structures, and other features of the property.
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Florida setback requirements define minimum distances from property lines for construction. Pineland Engineering (PE 39202, AR102594) offers Florida-wide services. Call (239) 233-5133.
What Is a Florida Property Survey?
A Florida property survey is a document prepared by a licensed Florida land surveyor that establishes the boundaries of a parcel of land, identifies improvements on the property, and documents easements, encroachments, and other matters affecting the property.
The most common type of survey for real estate transactions is a Boundary Survey, which shows the property lines, corners, and any improvements (buildings, fences, driveways) in relation to the property lines. An Elevation Certificate is a separate document prepared by a licensed surveyor or engineer that documents a building's elevation relative to the Base Flood Elevation.
Types of Florida Property Surveys
Florida property owners may need different types of surveys depending on their situation: a Boundary Survey establishes property lines and is required for most real estate transactions and permit applications; a Topographic Survey shows the elevation contours of the land and is required for site development and drainage design; an As-Built Survey documents the location of improvements after construction and is required for Certificate of Occupancy in many counties; an Elevation Certificate documents a building's flood zone and elevation and is required for flood insurance rating in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas; and a Tree Survey identifies the location, size, and species of trees on a property.
When Is a Survey Required in Florida?
A property survey is required in Florida for: most real estate transactions (lenders typically require a survey); building permit applications (most counties require a survey showing setbacks and lot coverage); new construction (an as-built survey is required before Certificate of Occupancy); and flood insurance rating in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (an Elevation Certificate is required).
A survey is also recommended when purchasing property to identify boundary disputes, encroachments, and easements that may affect the property's value or use.
Pineland Engineering Survey Coordination
Pineland Engineering (PE 39202 · AR102594) coordinates with licensed Florida land surveyors to obtain the surveys needed for permit applications and construction projects.
We review surveys for compliance with permit requirements, coordinate with surveyors on as-built surveys, and review Elevation Certificates for flood zone compliance. We serve all 67 Florida counties. Call (239) 233-5133 for a free project assessment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Florida property survey?
A Florida property survey is a document prepared by a licensed Florida land surveyor that establishes the boundaries of a parcel of land, identifies improvements on the property, and documents easements, encroachments, and other matters affecting the property. A current survey is required for most building permit applications in Florida.
What is the difference between a boundary survey and an elevation certificate in Florida?
A boundary survey establishes property lines and shows the location of improvements relative to those lines. An Elevation Certificate is a separate document prepared by a licensed surveyor or engineer that documents a building's elevation relative to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). An Elevation Certificate is required for flood insurance rating in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (Zones AE, VE, A).
Do I need a survey to get a building permit in Florida?
Yes. Most Florida counties require a current boundary survey as part of the building permit application. The survey must show property lines, setbacks, existing structures, and lot coverage. Some counties also require an as-built survey before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
How much does a Florida property survey cost?
Florida property survey costs vary by county, lot size, and survey type. A boundary survey for a standard residential lot typically costs $400–$900. An Elevation Certificate costs $300–$600. An as-built survey for Certificate of Occupancy purposes costs $500–$1,200. Pineland Engineering can refer clients to licensed surveyors in their area.
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