Once you have gained your licensing in Kentucky, a land surveyor stamp is required on all plats, reports, specifications, surveys, and other documents. It’s a good idea to make sure you understand exactly what your seal needs to look like, and how it should be used. Keep reading to find out what you need to know to maintain compliance as a Kentucky land surveyor.
Options
There are options available for your Kentucky land surveyor stamp, but you are required to use either a metallic embossing seal or a rubber stamp with ink. Unlike most other states, the Kentucky seal is square rather than round, so you need to make sure the setup you are considering is of the proper shape.
You can also use a digital facsimile of your Kentucky land surveyor stamp, providing that you have the original documents on file that contains the seal in its required format. Additionally, the digital image must be accompanied by an electronic signature that is uniquely yours, is only under your direct control and that is programmed so that any changes to the document either removes or invalidates the signature.
Appearance
Kentucky land surveyor stamps must be between 1 ¼” and 1 ½” square. The outer edge of the stamp is one large square that contains a smaller rectangle shape. The stamp information is contained within both shapes. The second smaller rectangle is situated towards the top of the stamp, leaving enough space between it and the top, outer edge for the words “State of Kentucky”. Beneath the smaller shape, the words “Licensed Professional Land Surveyor” take up three lines. Your name (as it appears on your license) is entered at the top of the small rectangle, with the license number entered in the space below it, still within the smaller shape.
Usage
You are required to include your Kentucky land surveyor stamp on any documents that you create. Your seal can also be affixed to documents that were prepared by an employee that is directly under your supervision. Regardless of which type of document that you use your seal on, you must make sure that all information contained in the report is complete and complies with all valid codes and requirements. Using your Kentucky land surveyor seal designates that you take full responsibility for all information. As such, you
will be held responsible for any issues or damages that arise from the use of the documents.You are also not permitted to affix your seal to any paperwork that someone other than yourself or someone under your supervision created, as this is a violation of Kentucky statutes.
As you can see, there are a number of requirements when using a Kentucky land surveyor stamp. By making sure you understand them, you will be protecting yourself and your career as a surveyor in Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Kentucky land surveyor stamp requirements?
Kentucky requires licensed professional land surveyors to use a seal on plats, reports, specifications, surveys, and other official documents. The seal must meet state format rules, including the proper square shape, required wording, and the surveyor’s name and license number.
What does a Kentucky land surveyor stamp look like?
A Kentucky land surveyor stamp must be square, not round, and measure between 1 1/4" and 1 1/2" on each side. It includes an outer square, a smaller inner rectangle, the words “State of Kentucky,” “Licensed Professional Land Surveyor,” the surveyor’s name, and license number.
Can I use a digital Kentucky land surveyor seal?
Yes, a digital facsimile of the Kentucky land surveyor stamp is allowed if you keep the original sealed documents on file and the digital version is paired with a unique electronic signature under your direct control. The signature must also invalidate if the document is altered.
What documents require a Kentucky land surveyor stamp?
Your Kentucky land surveyor stamp must be used on all documents you create, including plats, surveys, reports, and specifications. It may also be used on documents prepared by employees who are directly under your supervision, as long as the work is complete and compliant.
Can I stamp a document prepared by someone else?
No, you cannot affix your Kentucky land surveyor seal to documents created by someone outside your supervision. Doing so violates Kentucky statutes and can create legal and professional liability for the surveyor.
Why is the Kentucky land surveyor stamp so important?
The stamp shows that you take responsibility for the accuracy and compliance of the survey document. It helps protect clients, projects, and your professional license by confirming that the work meets Kentucky surveyor seal requirements and applicable codes.
