Learn how to look up property boundaries using plat maps, when to work with a surveyor, and how to confirm property lines.
Maybe you are thinking of building a shed on your property. Maybe you are planning land grading and need to double-check the easement. Or perhaps a tree fell near the property line, and you need to determine if you or your neighbor is responsible for removing it. In each of these scenarios and many others, a property owner may want to reference their property boundaries. There are three main methods for finding property lines:
A plat map is a good place to start If you need to reference property lines. And Acres makes it easy (and free!) to look at plat maps online. We source public property records from county offices, then aggregate the info we find into a simple, searchable platform.
With way more than a Google Maps search, plat maps on Acres can give you a quick reference for property boundary data plus other valuable insights, like flood zones and elevation maps. Of course, if you need exact property lines for legal reasons or a real estate transaction, then getting a survey is likely necessary.
Let’s explore ways to find property lines and when you might use each method.
When should I use a plat map to find property lines?
When do I need a professional surveyor to find boundary lines?
How do I use survey pins and visual cues to find property lines?
Examples and Use Cases From the Field
Use Case: A Kansas landowner planning a fence used Acres to check property lines and realized the planned fence would cross onto a neighbor’s land, saving time, money, and a future boundary dispute.
A plat map is a detailed diagram showing how land in a specific area is divided into parcels. Unlike a plot map that shows details of an individual property, plat maps show multiple properties, their boundaries, and how they interconnect. They are often used to resolve disputes, plan developments, or confirm property sizes.
Plat maps are public records. In the past, you would need to visit your local county assessor's office to access plat maps or buy a physical plat book. While these methods are still an option, technology makes it much easier. Platforms like Acres now provide online access to plat maps and property line information, making this valuable data a few clicks away.
Using Acres, landowners can search by address or GPS to instantly access property boundaries, acreage, and even FSA overlays.
Use Case: A Georgia land deal almost fell through until a new survey revealed the road easement didn’t exist—renegotiating the deal saved the buyer thousands.
In many situations, the property line data provided for free by Acres is all you need for a quick reference. However, for situations requiring absolute accuracy, such as real estate transactions, legal agreements, or construction permits, you should hire a professional land surveyor to complete a new survey. Many mortgage lenders and title companies require a new survey of a property to determine accurate financing and identify any risks or encroachments.
Surveyors use special equipment and techniques to establish precise property boundaries. They often place markers, such as buried pins or visible stakes, to physically outline the property.
A property survey typically costs between $300 and $1,000, depending on factors like property size, location, and complexity. The process can take from a few days to a couple of weeks. If you are looking to save on costs and time, you may be able to request a copy of a previous professional survey from the title company.
Use Case: In Ohio, a homeowner discovered their tree was actually on the neighbor’s lot—after finding buried pins with a metal detector.
If you are just curious about a property, here are a few simple visual clues that give a general idea of property boundaries:
These indicators are just ways to eyeball it, literally. If accuracy is critical, always confirm with official data or a surveyor.
Understanding when to use different resources can save you time and money. Here is a quick guide:
If you’re planning to build a shed, add a fence, or pour a new driveway, it’s important to know exactly where your property boundaries are before you start. Using a GIS platform like Acres, you can view a plat map to see your parcel lines and get a quick visual of how your land connects with neighboring properties.
This step helps you plan confidently and avoid encroaching on adjacent lots. When you’re ready to move forward with construction or apply for a building permit, it’s best to hire a licensed land surveyor to confirm precise boundaries. A survey provides the legal accuracy needed for permitting, financing, and long-term record keeping.
Best method: Use Acres for a quick boundary reference, then confirm with a professional survey before building.
If a tree falls near the property line, or you notice a fence or structure that doesn’t seem to match the map, you can quickly check boundary information with a plat map. Viewing the plat map helps you understand where the official parcel lines are and whether an issue lies on your property or a neighbor’s.
If ownership or liability is unclear, a professional survey can confirm the exact boundary. Surveyors use specialized equipment to establish precise coordinates and provide documentation that can help settle disputes quickly and fairly.
Best method: Use a plat map to locate your boundary, and rely on a survey when accuracy or legal clarity is needed.
When you’re buying or selling property, having clear boundary information is essential. Before you list land for sale or make an offer, you can use Acres to look up the parcel boundaries, acreage, and surrounding parcels. This helps you verify that the property lines match what’s shown in listings, marketing materials, or deeds.
Most title companies and lenders will require a recent professional survey before closing. The survey confirms exact acreage, identifies encroachments, and ensures all property details are accurate for the transaction. Reviewing this data early can save time, prevent surprises, and build buyer confidence.
Best method: Use an online mapping platform like Acres to review boundaries and parcel data, and rely on a survey to verify exact measurements for legal and financial purposes.
You should get a new survey when buying land, resolving disputes, or making improvements near boundary lines.
Not always. Fences may not match legal boundaries and should not be relied on for accurate or legal purposes.
Look for metal rods or rebar buried at property corners. A metal detector may help locate them. If none are visible, a surveyor can place new ones.
Costs vary depending on location, lot size, and survey type. Basic surveys typically range from $300 to $1,000+.
Yes. You can use online resources like your local GIS site or Acres.com to access a free property line map.
Start with a plat map, check GIS tools, and look for existing survey pins. These methods can give you a general idea, but for legal accuracy, only a professional survey will suffice.
Understanding a property’s boundary is crucial for land management, development, or resolving disputes. For everyday needs, online tools like Acres can be invaluable for quick and free access to basic property lines information. For more technical needs, professional surveys provide the accuracy required for legal and financial matters.
You can create a free account at Acres for easy access to property lines and other important insights, like soil data, topographical maps, wetlands, and more.
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