Glossary
Boundary Survey
This type of survey determines the boundaries of a particular parcel. Permanent monuments are set at all corners of the property and line stakes are usually set at appropriate intervals between the corners as needed.
CAD
Computer Aided Design or Drafting. (Wilson Land Surveys, Inc. uses Autocad).
Checking
When a map is prepared for recording, state law requires that the city or county checks the map with compliance with proper land surveying practice. This process can take several weeks depending on the workload of the county or city involved.
Control Points
These points are used by the surveyor to measure from. They are not a corner or line point of the parcel.
Coordinates
A coordinate provides the surveyor with the position of the point he is dealing with. All points on the site have a coordinate value assigned to it.
Corrections
After the City or County checks the map, they will return it to the surveyor with a list of corrections. After these corrections are made, the signed original map is referred to the City of County.
Data Collector
A calculator that stores the measurement data for the survey. It also serves as a field computer to assist the surveyor to do his work.
GPS
Global Positioning System. Using satellite signals, GPS receivers are able to provide surveyors with precise measurements. The only limitations are the trees and structures that block or obscure the satellite signals.
Grant Deed
A document that is used to grant or convey property from one person(s) or entity to another. This document is filed at the County Recorder’s Office.
Legal Description
A set of words used to describe a distinct parcel of land. New legal descriptions must be prepared by a licensed land surveyor.
Line Stakes
These are usually wooden or metal stakes, usually not tagged with a license number and set to delineate a property line.
Map of the Survey
Maps
Previously recorded and unrecorded maps are consulted by the surveyor before going to the project site. Monuments-A physical representation of a property corner. New monuments are usually iron pipe, rebar, concrete, or brass and include the license number of the surveyor who set them. In the past, many types of monuments were set including rock mounds, trees, stakes.
Record Location
Using two or more found monuments, the rest of the boundary of the property can be shown in its record location by calculation. These lines are then shown on the map as the record location. To ascertain their exact location, a complete boundary survey needs to be done.
Total Station
An instrument used by surveyors for measurement. It allows the surveyor to measure angles and distances using infrared or laser technology.