When you finally achieve licensing for surveying in Missouri, you will be required to purchase a seal. There are several rules pertaining to both the appearance and use of your Missouri land surveyor stamp, and failing to follow them can have serious consequences. Here, you will find the most important information that you need to know about your stamp so you can avoid them.
Appearance
Your Missouri land surveyor stamp must be 1 ¾” in diameter and feature two concentric circles – the outermost of which contains the entire stamp. The second circle is smaller and provides space for information between the circles and within it.
The space between the two circles must contain the words “State of Missouri” at the top and “Professional Land Surveyor” at the bottom. Inside the smaller circle, your name is included on one line, followed by the word “Number”. The final line contains the prefix “PLS” and your license number.
You are permitted to use a Missouri land surveyor stamp that is an embossing seal or you can use an inked rubber stamp. A digital image is also acceptable, providing that it is identical to the stamp or embosser. Additionally, when using a digital facsimile, you must use your personal electronic signature of which you have complete control. You will also need to make sure that you use software that will automatically delete the signature when using a Missouri land surveyor stamp in a digital format if any changes are made to the original document. If you send any documents without a signature or through an authentication process, you will need to include the statement: “This media should not be considered a certified document”.
Missouri Land Surveyor Stamp Usage Requirements
Perhaps the most important thing to understand about using your Missouri land surveyor stamp is that it denotes that you have verified and approved all of the information in the drawing, survey, plat or other document. This certification also signifies that you assume
full responsibility for the information, and accept liability for any damages or issues that may arise.Due to the importance of your Missouri land surveyor stamp, you are only permitted to apply it to documents that you create or that are prepared under your immediate supervision. Before affixing it, make sure you have thoroughly verified all facts and figures to protect yourself and your licensing.
You are not permitted to include your Missouri land surveyor stamp on any documents that are prepared by someone else that is not an employee under your control. Doing so could result in severe penalties, including complete revocation of your licensing.
Familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations concerning the use of a Missouri land surveyor stamp is an important first step in your career. Doing so will ensure you remain in compliance and in good standing in your field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the required design specifications for a Missouri land surveyor stamp?
A Missouri land surveyor stamp must be 1 ¾ inches in diameter and include two concentric circles. The outer ring must contain “State of Missouri” at the top and “Professional Land Surveyor” at the bottom. Inside the inner circle, the stamp must show your name on one line, the word “Number” on the next, and “PLS” followed by your license number on the final line.
Can I use a digital Missouri land surveyor stamp instead of an inked seal?
Yes. Missouri allows an electronic or digital version of the land surveyor stamp as long as it is identical to the required seal or embosser. When using a digital stamp, you must also use a personal electronic signature that you control and software that prevents the signature from remaining on altered documents.
Is an embossing seal allowed for Missouri professional land surveyors?
Yes. Missouri permits both embossing seals and inked rubber stamps for professional land surveyors. As long as the seal meets all state design and usage requirements, either format can be used.
On what documents can I legally place my Missouri land surveyor stamp?
You may only affix your Missouri land surveyor stamp to documents you created yourself or documents prepared under your immediate supervision. You should not stamp work that was prepared by someone outside your control, because doing so can lead to serious disciplinary action.
What does it mean when I apply my Missouri land surveyor stamp to a document?
Applying your stamp certifies that you have verified and approved the information in the drawing, survey, plat, or other document. It also means you accept responsibility for the work and may be liable for any errors or damages resulting from it.
What are the consequences of using a Missouri surveyor seal incorrectly?
Improper use of a Missouri surveyor seal can lead to serious penalties, including potential license revocation. Failing to follow state requirements for the stamp’s appearance, digital use, or document supervision can put your license and professional reputation at risk.
