"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

How Land Surveys Support Real Estate Development Projects in Texas

Every successful real estate development project starts with the land—and knowing everything about that land is critical before any work begins. Whether you're building a residential subdivision, a retail center, or a mixed-use community, a professional land survey lays the foundation for informed planning, permitting, and construction.

In fast-growing regions like Houston, Conroe, and Montgomery County, development timelines are tight, regulations are strict, and land use is competitive. Here's how land surveying plays a vital role throughout the development process—and why working with experienced surveyors like South Texas Surveying makes all the difference.

Step 1: Site Selection and Feasibility

Before a developer closes on a property, a land survey provides essential data to determine if the land is suitable for the proposed project.

What developers learn during this stage:

• Accurate property boundaries and total acreage

• Legal access and right-of-way locations

• Presence of easements, flood zones, and utility corridors

• Topographic features such as elevation, drainage paths, and slopes

A survey during the feasibility stage can reveal costly challenges—or help negotiate the price before purchase.

Step 2: Zoning, Platting, and Permitting

With accurate survey data in hand, developers can move forward with zoning requests, land platting, and permit applications. Cities and counties across Texas require survey-based documentation to:

• Submit site plans and construction drawings

• File plats or replats with accurate lot dimensions

• Comply with setbacks, access, and easement requirements

• Verify compliance with zoning and land-use codes

South Texas Surveying works directly with planning departments to ensure submitted plats and survey documents meet local regulations, speeding up the approval process.

Step 3: Design and Engineering

Architects, civil engineers, and contractors rely on topographic surveys and boundary surveys to design:

• Grading and drainage plans

• Utility layouts (water, sewer, electric, etc.)

• Building footprints and access points

• Parking lots, driveways, and green space

A detailed survey eliminates guesswork and ensures the project integrates seamlessly with the land’s natural and legal limitations.

Step 4: Construction Layout and Staking

Once the project breaks ground, surveyors return to the site to stake out critical points, including:

• Building corners and foundation lines

• Utility trench locations

• Roadways and curbs

• Sidewalks and signage

This phase—called construction staking—ensures every element is built in the right place, according to plan, and within legal boundaries.

Step 5: Final Survey and Closeout

Before a certificate of occupancy or project closeout, developers may need a final survey or as-built survey to confirm that the project was completed to spec. This survey may also be required by:

• Title companies and lenders

• Municipal building departments

• Investors and legal counsel

An as-built survey documents all final structures, access points, and improvements, providing a permanent record for future resale or refinancing.

Why Developers Across Texas Choose South Texas Surveying

From raw land to ribbon-cutting, we support developers through every phase of the process. Our team understands the pressure of tight deadlines, regulatory compliance, and changing site conditions—and we deliver with accuracy and urgency.

We provide:

• Boundary and ALTA surveys

• Topographic and tree surveys

• Platting and subdivision support

• Construction layout services

• As-built and final project surveys

Whether you’re developing a residential community in Montgomery or a retail center in Houston, we help ensure your project moves forward with clarity and confidence.

Final Thoughts: No Development Without a Survey

Land is your most valuable asset in a real estate development—but only if you understand it fully. Professional land surveying is not just a box to check—it's a core part of risk management, compliance, and strategic decision-making.

Start your project right. Contact South Texas Surveying to schedule a consultation and get a detailed, dependable survey tailored to your next big development.