What type of survey is used for determining land elevation and locating land features for construction?

A topographical survey is specifically designed to determine land elevation and to map out land features such as hills, valleys, and bodies of water. This type of survey utilizes detailed measurement techniques to create a three-dimensional representation of the earth's surface, including contour lines that indicate elevation changes. By showcasing the physical characteristics of the terrain, a topographical survey provides essential information for construction projects, ensuring that builders can assess the landscape and make informed decisions about design, drainage, and earth-moving operations.

In contrast, a boundary survey focuses on defining property lines and determining the ownership of a parcel of land. A site survey combines aspects of boundary and topographical surveys but is generally more focused on the specific attributes of a proposed construction site, such as existing structures and utilities. Meanwhile, hydrographic surveys are concerned with bodies of water and underwater features, measuring water depth and mapping floor geography, but do not directly address land elevation for construction purposes.