Survey Recording FAQs
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In Washington State, a land survey must be recorded in the following situations:
Boundary discrepancies: When there's a conflict between the legal description and the actual physical boundaries.
First-time monument placement: When permanent markers (monuments) are set to define property lines for the first time.
Boundary changes: When a property line is established or reestablished and differs from what's shown on existing deeds or plats.
Encroachments: If a structure or improvement is discovered to cross a boundary line.
Court or agency requirements: When a survey is ordered by a court or required by a public agency.
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A recorded survey is an official map, prepared by a licensed land surveyor, that becomes part of the public record. Governed by Chapter 58.09 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), recorded surveys:
Define exact property boundaries
Resolve inconsistencies in legal descriptions
Document boundary changes or new subdivisions
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Fieldwork: A licensed surveyor collects precise measurements and boundary data on-site.
Drafting: A detailed map is created, including scale, north arrow, legal descriptions, and monument locations.
Submission: The final survey is submitted to the County Auditor’s Office, where it is indexed and added to the public record.
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As of 2024, the standard recording fee for a survey in Washington State is $423.50. This flat rate applies statewide, as established by uniform legislation.
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Recording a survey helps:
Prevent boundary disputes
Support smooth property transactions
Ensure future development follows local codes and regulations
Contribute to orderly and transparent land use across the state
It’s a long-term investment in clarity, peace of mind, and responsible property ownership.