Land surveyors in Florida must use a seal that meets the requirements set forth by the board. Whether you are newly licensed, or your license has expired, making sure you understand the rules and regulations for Florida land surveyor seals is important.
Florida Seal Requirements
Florida land surveyor seals must meet specific guidelines concerning its size and appearance. While there is not a specific maximum size for the seal, it can’t be any smaller than 1 5/8” in diameter. There are several versions that are acceptable for Florida land surveyor seals. However, the most up to date option includes the following guidelines.
- Two concentric circles with the outermost being 1 5/8” in diameter and the other fitting inside it
- The licensee’s name appears in the space between the circles along the top arc
- “Professional Surveyor and Mapper” appears in the bottom arc in the space between the circles
- The words “License Number” appear at the top arc of the inside circle, with the license number in a straight line right below it
- “State of” appears in a straight line below the license number
- “Florida” is located along the bottom arc of the inner circle
Florida land surveyor seals are also available in dual options that designate both engineering and surveying, as well as other setups that may be used depending on the licensee’s date of registration and designation of being in good standing.
Using Your Seal
Florida land surveyor seals, along with a signature and date, are required on all plats, specifications, drawings, reports, and other documents. The surveyor who attaches their seal must have prepared the documents or supervised their preparation. Use of the seal denotes that the information that it contains meets all code and regulation requirements, and that the data has been verified. If a licensee uses a Florida land surveyor seal, they are accepting responsibility for all information, which makes it very important that the seal only be affixed once everything is reviewed.
It is very important that surveyors do not use seals after licensing has expired or been revoked or suspended to avoid fines and other punishments. Additionally, a Florida land surveyor seal should never be used on documents that contain work that is outside of the scope of the licensee’s specialty or profession.
As you can see, there are numerous requirements for using a Florida land surveyor seal, and it is your responsibility to make sure that you follow all of them to ensure you maintain your compliance and keep your licensing in good standing. It is always a good idea to visit the Professional Surveyors and Mappers webpage to find additional information about the Florida land surveyor seal and other important updates to the rules and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Florida land surveyor seal requirements?
Florida land surveyor seals must follow board guidelines, including a minimum size of 1 5/8 inches in diameter and a specific layout. The seal should include two concentric circles, the licensee’s name, “Professional Surveyor and Mapper,” the license number, “State of Florida,” and other required wording in the correct placement.
When is a Florida surveyor seal required on documents?
A Florida surveyor seal, along with a signature and date, is required on plats, specifications, drawings, reports, and other documents prepared or supervised by the licensed surveyor. If you are sealing a document, it indicates that you accept responsibility for the work and its compliance with applicable rules.
Can I use my Florida land surveyor seal after my license expires?
No. A Florida land surveyor seal should not be used after your license has expired, been suspended, or revoked. Using a seal without an active license can lead to fines, penalties, and other disciplinary action.
What information must appear on a Florida Professional Surveyor and Mapper seal?
The current Florida Professional Surveyor and Mapper seal should include two concentric circles, the licensee’s name on the top outer arc, “Professional Surveyor and Mapper” on the bottom outer arc, “License Number” on the top inside circle, the license number below it, “State of” beneath that, and “Florida” on the bottom inside arc.
Can a Florida surveyor seal be used on work outside my area of expertise?
No. A Florida land surveyor seal should not be used on documents that include work outside the surveyor’s scope of practice or specialty. Sealing documents outside your qualifications can create compliance issues and expose you to liability.
What is the difference between a standard and dual Florida land surveyor seal?
A standard Florida land surveyor seal is designed for surveying-only credentials, while a dual seal may designate both engineering and surveying. The correct seal depends on your license type, registration date, and whether you are in good standing with the board.
