Point On Line — What Does This Mean?

When it comes to land surveying, one of the terms you may hear is Point On Line. But what exactly does Point On Line mean?

At Apex Land Surveying and Mapping LLC, this is one of the most requested add-on services from our clients. This is especially true when they’re planning to make improvements near their property lines. But the reasons why you might need a Point On Line staked in the field for your survey do vary. 

A Point On Line is exactly what it sounds like — a stake or wood lath that is set on a surveyed boundary line. In many cases, property corners can be hundreds of feet apart, hidden by trees, blocked by buildings, or separated by uneven terrain. Point On Line stakes come in handy, acting more or less as reference points that physically define the boundary line between found or re-established monuments around your property. They also help you to visualize where property boundary lines run.

Why Would You Need a Point On Line?

Clients often request Point On Line staking for projects where knowing the exact boundary line is critical. Here are some instances where Point On Line is necessary:

• Fencing Projects – Whether you’re installing privacy fencing or decorative boundary fencing, Point On Line staking can help ensure that it sits within your property limits.

• Landscaping and Hardscaping – Garden beds, retaining walls, and outdoor features often toe the line between neighboring properties. A Point On Line helps eliminate guesswork as well as avoid potential boundary disputes down the road.

• Structures and Additions – If you're planning to build a garage or shed, knowing exactly where your boundary is with a Point On Line survey can help keep it compliant with local zoning laws.

• Clearing or Grading Work – If you have a larger property and want to clear brush or level land, Point On Line stakes help guide this work and prevent accidental encroachments.

How Does It Work?

When you request a Point On Line stakes for your survey project, we typically start with a boundary retracement survey, coupled with a Land Survey Plat, Improvement Survey Plat, or ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey to establish your property lines. We locate or re-establish corner markers (monuments) on the subject parcel of land during this process. 

From there, we’ll calculate and place additional stakes directly on the line between those corners. We adjust the number of stakes we use and their spacing based on the specific project you are taking on. The result is a more clear visual line on the ground that shows where your property boundary lines are between monuments.

A Simple Land Survey Making a Big Difference

When it comes to surveying property boundaries, accuracy matters. Additionally, so does visibility. If you’re planning any work near your property lines, don’t leave it up to guesswork. Adding Point On Line stakes to your boundary retracement survey, along with a Land Survey Plat, Improvement Survey Plat or ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, is a simple way to avoid surprises and make sure you are working within your boundaries.

Reach out to us today to schedule the additional Point On Line stake service to your survey and start your next project right! Apex Land Surveying and Mapping LLC is here to make your next project a smooth one.