"Texas, often referred to as the Lone Star State, is a thriving hub for economic growth and innovation, making it an attractive destination for commercial real estate investment." - Chris Evans

Land Surveys for Developers in Houston: Building Smart from the Ground Up

Developing Property in Houston? A Land Survey Is Your First Step

For developers in Houston, land surveys are more than a requirement—they're a roadmap to smart, efficient, and profitable development. Whether you're planning a residential subdivision, a mixed-use community, or a commercial center, a survey gives you the legal, environmental, and logistical clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

Across Houston’s rapidly growing areas—from urban infill projects in Harris County to master-planned developments in Montgomery and Fort Bend counties—developers rely on detailed survey data to identify buildable space, secure financing, and comply with zoning and utility access standards.

Why Land Surveys Are Critical for Development Projects

Without a current survey, developers risk:

• Encroaching on neighboring properties or easements

• Misjudging buildable acreage

• Violating zoning or setback rules

• Running into drainage or floodplain issues

• Failing to meet lender or title requirements

📌 In Texas, a land survey isn’t optional—it’s essential for moving your development from concept to construction.

Key Surveys Developers Need in the Houston Region

🧭 1. ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey

Used in large-scale acquisitions and commercial developments. It maps:

• Legal boundaries

• Easements and access

• Existing structures and improvements

• Zoning and setback information

• Rights-of-way and encroachments

This is the go-to survey for satisfying title companies, attorneys, and lenders.

📏 2. Topographic Survey

Outlines the land’s slope, elevation, and surface features. It helps:

• Design drainage and grading plans

• Identify buildable vs. restricted areas

• Plan roadways, detention ponds, and green space

Essential in Montgomery and Brazoria counties, where terrain and drainage vary significantly.

🛠️ 3. Construction Staking

Marks where to build on the ground. It’s used during:

• Site prep and clearing

• Building foundation placement

• Utility installation

• Road and infrastructure layout

Staking ensures your project stays on plan and on schedule.

🧾 4. Platting and Replat Surveys

Required when dividing or combining land parcels. This step helps:

• Subdivide property for residential or commercial lots

• Establish new streets or utilities

• Comply with municipal development codes

Common in Fort Bend County, where new neighborhoods and shopping centers continue to emerge.

🌊 5. Floodplain and Elevation Surveys

Verify if your land is in a flood zone and establish base flood elevations. These are often needed:

• To obtain flood insurance

• For building permits in Houston, Galveston, and Pearland

• To design compliant drainage systems

County-Specific Considerations for Houston Developers

📍 Harris County

• Flood control is heavily regulated by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD).

• Surveys must support compliance with detention, runoff, and development guidelines.

• ALTA, topographic, and elevation data are often submitted for permit approvals.

📍 Fort Bend County

• MUDs (Municipal Utility Districts) are common and may require utility easement surveys.

• Developers often use platting and staking surveys for residential growth.

📍 Montgomery County

• Rapid suburban growth means heavy demand for tree, topographic, and subdivision surveys.

• Special attention is needed for ETJ (Extraterritorial Jurisdiction) rules and HOA overlays.

📍 Brazoria & Galveston Counties

• Flood risk and coastal proximity make elevation and coastal setback surveys essential.

• Developers often need site grading data for FEMA and insurance compliance.

📍 Waller, Chambers & Liberty Counties

• These rural areas offer space for larger projects like distribution centers and multifamily housing.

• Accurate boundary and GPS surveys are key for legal description and title review.

How South Texas Surveying Supports Developers

With over 40 years of experience in Greater Houston, South Texas Surveying is the trusted partner for developers who need accurate data, fast turnaround, and local expertise.

We offer:

✔️ ALTA/NSPS, topographic, boundary, and staking surveys
✔️ Subdivision plat preparation and replat services
✔️ Floodplain and drainage surveys
✔️ Full support for permitting and zoning compliance
✔️ Knowledge of county-specific requirements across Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Galveston, Waller, Liberty, and Chambers counties

📞 Starting a new project? Let us help you build it right—from the ground up.

Great Projects Start with Accurate Land Surveys

In real estate development, what you don’t know can cost you. That’s why developers across Houston turn to professional land surveys to eliminate guesswork and ensure legal, structural, and financial success. From site selection to final inspection, your survey is the foundation of it all.

📍 Contact South Texas Surveying today to schedule a survey and streamline your next development in the Houston area.