There is nothing especially distinct about the North Dakota land surveyor seal when compared to those given out by most states. However, that’s all the more reason to take a moment or two to make sure nothing is out of order. If you don’t, you could have quite the surprise waiting for you after years of using it.
The Dimensions of a North Dakota Land Surveyor Seal
The North Dakota land surveyor seal measures 1-3/4" in diameter. In North Dakota, you can use an embosser or a rubber stamp for leaving your mark. In either case, though, this diameter should create a solid border.
North Dakota’s board of registration for professional engineers and land surveyors for registrants also allows an electronic version. Obviously, this computer-generated seal needs to remain as it was issued, meaning you can’t modify it in any way.
The Appearance of the North Dakota Land Surveyor Seal
As we touched on, there are really only a few elements of the North Dakota land surveyor seal that you need to look for.
First, the perimeter should have a crimp to it. If you’re using the computer version, you’ll notice no difference with the perimeter.
The actual design of the North Dakota land surveyor seal changed in 2005, so don’t compare yours to one from before this time or you’ll think there are errors when you actually have nothing to worry about.
This recent design involves concentric circles. Between the inner-circle and the perimeter, the seal reads, “Registered Professional Land Surveyor” going along the top. Across the bottom, it simply says, “North Dakota.”
In the middle of the inner-circle, at the top, is where your name should be. Under that will be your license number, beginning with, “No.” Finally, the word date is directly below this part, slightly off center and to the left, to provide room to write in the date.
Dual Seals
If you’re also a professional engineer, the typical North Dakota land surveyor seal won’t suffice to cover your services. Instead, you’ll want a dual license. Everything about it, including the diameter, are the same as the North Dakota land surveyor seal we just described. The only difference is that, across the top, outside of the inner-circle, it will read, “Registered Professional Engineer & Land Surveyor.”
Now that you know what you’re looking for, take a moment or two and inspect your seal before using it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What must be included on a North Dakota land surveyor seal?
A North Dakota land surveyor seal should include the title “Registered Professional Land Surveyor” around the top outside the inner circle, “North Dakota” along the bottom, your name at the top of the inner circle, your license number preceded by “No.”, and a space for the date beneath that information. If you use an electronic seal, it must appear exactly as issued without any modifications.
How large should a North Dakota professional land surveyor seal?
The standard North Dakota land surveyor seal measures 1-3/4 inches in diameter. Whether you use an embosser, a rubber stamp, or an electronic version, the seal should maintain the correct size and create a clear, solid border.
Can I use an electronic North Dakota surveyor seal?
Yes, North Dakota allows an electronic version of the land surveyor seal. However, it must remain unchanged from the version issued to you. You should not alter the design, wording, spacing, or any other detail of the seal.
What changed in the North Dakota land surveyor seal design after 2005?
The North Dakota land surveyor seal design changed in 2005, so older seals may look different from current ones. The newer design uses concentric circles and updated wording, so it’s important to compare your seal to the current state requirements rather than an outdated example.
Why do professionals need a difference between a standard and dual North Dakota surveyor seal?
A standard North Dakota land surveyor seal is for registrants licensed only as land surveyors. A dual seal is for professionals licensed as both a professional engineer and a land surveyor. The size and layout are the same, but the top wording on the dual seal reads “Registered Professional Engineer & Land Surveyor.”
What are the most common North Dakota surveyor seal mistakes to avoid?
Common mistakes include using an outdated seal design, having the wrong diameter, omitting your name or license number, using an altered electronic seal, or choosing the wrong seal type for your license. Reviewing your seal before use can help prevent delays, compliance issues, and approval problems.
