If you are newly licensed in Louisiana, a land surveyor seal is a requirement. While there are numerous vendors available, it is important that you make sure the one you choose provides a stamp that meets all of the requirements set forth by the Board. Here you will gain a better understanding of what your seal needs to look like and your responsibilities when using it.
Appearance Matters
Your Louisiana land surveyor seal must meet the design requirements provided by the Board. Unlike other states that require a specific size, Louisiana only requires that the seal be either 1 5/8” or 2” in diameter. In most cases, the 2” option is the most common choice. It is also acceptable for users to have both a smaller pocket seal that is 1 5/8” and a 2” desk seal.
Louisiana land surveyor seals also differ from other states in the layout of their stamps. Seals only require a single circle with all of the information contained within it. The words “State
of Louisiana” appears in an arc at the top of the seal (inside the circle), with the words “Professional Land Surveyor” along the bottom arc. Directly under the words at the top of the Louisiana land surveyor seal, the state bird, which is the brown pelican, is centered. Right below that is the licensee’s name. The next and final line includes the words “License No.” followed by the numbers in question.Options
Louisiana land surveyor seals are acceptable in a few different options. Both embossed seals, which imprint the stamp into the paper, and rubber ink stamps are permitted. Additionally, surveyors can use digital or computer-generated seals providing they are exact replicas of the physical seal.
Using Your Louisiana Land Surveyor Seal
Once you obtain a Louisiana land surveyor seal, it is important that you make sure you use it properly. Affixing your seal to any report, plat, specification, survey, or other official document signifies that you were responsible for the information it contains. You can also use your seal on documents that are generated under your supervision by your employees. Whether you or another person created the documents, your seal indicates that you have verified all of the information and found it to be correct and in compliance with all applicable codes and regulations.
Another important consideration when using your Louisiana land surveyor seal is that you become responsible for the information. This means that it is vital that you ensure the correctness of it, as you will be held responsible for any issues or problems that arise from the use of the documents.
While achieving your licensing is an exciting time, your Louisiana land surveyor seal includes much responsibility. Make sure you understand the requirements completely before you begin using it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information must be included on a Louisiana land surveyor seal?
A Louisiana land surveyor seal must include a single circular design with all required information inside the circle. The seal should show “State of Louisiana” at the top, “Professional Land Surveyor” at the bottom, the brown pelican centered near the top, the licensee’s name, and the license number. Using the correct Louisiana Professional Surveyor stamp format helps avoid plan rejection and ensures compliance with Board requirements.
What size is required for a Louisiana Professional Surveyor seal?
Louisiana requires the seal to be either 1 5/8 inches or 2 inches in diameter. There is no other size specification beyond those two approved options. Many surveyors choose the 2-inch seal, but both sizes are acceptable for Louisiana land surveyor seal requirements.
Are embossed seals, rubber stamps, and digital seals allowed in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana allows embossed seals, rubber ink stamps, and digital or computer-generated seals. If you use a digital seal, it must be an exact replica of the physical Louisiana land surveyor seal. This gives surveyors flexibility while still meeting Louisiana Professional Surveyor stamp standards.
When do I need to use my Louisiana land surveyor seal?
You should use your Louisiana land surveyor seal on reports, plats, specifications, surveys, and other official documents you are responsible for. Sealing a document indicates that you have reviewed the information and found it to be accurate and in compliance with applicable codes and regulations. Proper seal usage is essential for document acceptance and professional accountability.
Can I seal documents prepared by my employees or under my supervision?
Yes, Louisiana surveyors may seal documents created by employees if those documents were generated under the surveyor’s supervision. Even if someone else prepared the work, applying your seal means you have verified the information and accept responsibility for it. This is an important part of Louisiana surveyor seal usage and professional oversight.
What happens if my Louisiana surveyor seal does not meet Board requirements?
If your seal does not meet Louisiana Board requirements, your documents may be rejected, delayed, or returned for correction. An incorrect Louisiana Professional Surveyor stamp can create costly setbacks and may affect plan acceptance. Choosing a compliant seal and using it correctly helps protect your work, your license, and your project timeline.
