General
Is a plat of survey required for hardscape installation?
A plat of survey is not always required, but it is often recommended and may be necessary for permits or homeowners association approval. A current plat helps identify property lines, setbacks, easements, and existing structures before installing patios, walkways, retaining walls, fences, or other permanent features.
How do easements affect drainage or landscape installation?
An easement gives another party, such as a utility company or municipality, certain rights to use part of the property. Permanent structures, major grading, trees, or drainage systems may be restricted within an easement. Any work that blocks access, changes drainage, or interferes with utilities may need to be relocated or approved before installation.
Do I need a plat of survey for drainage or grading work?
A plat of survey may be needed when drainage or grading work could affect property boundaries, neighboring properties, easements, or municipal drainage systems. For more complex projects, a topographic survey or engineered grading plan may also be required because a standard plat does not always include detailed elevations or water flow information.
Why does a landscaper need a plat of survey before starting work?
A plat of survey helps the landscaper confirm property boundaries, identify easements and setback requirements, avoid installing improvements on neighboring property, locate recorded site features, and plan drainage correctly. It may also be needed for permits or homeowners association approval.