Trusted Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineers in Chesapeake, VA

There are many influences that are considered when survey quoting is determined. Before an estimate is provided factors such as the size of the lot, scope of the services, terrain, date of last survey, vegetation and old recorded documents have to be evaluated to accurately detail the professional services to be delivered. The surveyor should be able to explain the rationale behind the pricing and both the client and surveyor should discuss expectations of the final product before an agreement is executed.

From the edge of the shoreline or tributary stream or any other seaward component of the RPA (i.e. highly erodible soils, tidal and contiguous nontidal wetlands), the first 50 feet inland is called the seaward 50 feet of the buffer. The next 50 feet inland is called the landward 50 feet of the buffer. The seaward 50 feet and the landward 50 feet of the buffer comprise the 100 foot buffer.

If your project has a construction footprint less than or equal to 2,500 square feet and will be located entirely in the RMA, the alteration or expansion will not have to meet any requirements of the CBPA Ordinance. If your project has a construction footprint less than or equal to 2,500 square feet and any portion will be located within the RPA, the project can be reviewed administratively by staff. If the area of land to be disturbed is over 2,500 square feet and located either in the RMA or the RPA, specific requirements must be met to ensure water quality protection. CBPA Board review and approval may be required.

The construction, installation, or maintenance of water dependent facilities is allowed as well as redevelopment subject to the requirements of the ordinance. These are the only uses allowed in the RPA. Minor projects in the landward 50 feet of the RPA buffer are allowed as an exception. Other exceptions and variances are granted on an individual basis. Some projects may be reviewed and approved administratively while others may require Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Board review and approval.

Topographic surveys measure the elevation of points for a piece of land and illustrate them as contour lines on a plot. A physical survey includes land boundaries and building locations that are outlined and mapped out. This type of survey may be required by lending institutions when trying to obtain a mortgage loan.