Do You Need a Survey Before Building a Fence in Ohio?

Most Ohio homeowners assume they know where their property line is — until a new fence goes up a foot too far and a neighbor calls a lawyer instead of a surveyor. A quick boundary survey costs far less than moving a fence after the fact.

Why Your Deed Isn't Enough

Deeds describe property using legal descriptions, not visible markers. Old fences, hedges, or "everyone always thought the line was here" assumptions are frequently wrong by several feet. Only a licensed survey locates the actual recorded boundary.

What Happens If You Guess Wrong

Fences built over a property line can be forced into removal by a neighbor or municipality, and disputes over shared costs or encroachments can drag on for months. Many Central Ohio municipalities also require a survey or plot plan before issuing a fence permit.

What a Boundary Survey Involves

A licensed surveyor researches deeds and plats, locates existing monuments, and sets new ones where needed, then delivers a certified plat showing exact dimensions and any encroachments.

Fast Turnaround, No Guesswork

Compass360 Surveying delivers boundary surveys in 15 business days — while many Ohio surveyors are booked out for months. Serving Columbus, Worthington, and Central Ohio.

Planning a fence, addition, or landscaping project? Get your property lines confirmed before you break ground. Request a free quote today.