New Mapping Rules Make a Boundary Survey Essential

Surveyor measuring residential lot lines with a total station during a boundary survey

Chicago is full of older homes, tight lots, and neighborhoods with long histories. Now the city is documenting even more of that history through a new initiative: the Historic Resources Survey 2025, launched recently in West Chicago. This project identifies buildings, streets, and areas that carry architectural or cultural value. It may sound like something […]

How to Secure a Property Survey Permit Safely

Tripod and safety cones set up for a property survey along a public sidewalk to ensure right-of-way safety and permit compliance

When you order a property survey, you might think the surveyor simply shows up, sets up equipment, and starts taking measurements. In many cases, that’s true. But if your property touches a sidewalk, alley, or street, the rules change. Surveyors can’t step into those areas—called the public right-of-way—without special permissions and safety clearances. For property […]

Property Survey Required Before Any ADU Project Begins

Surveyor using tripod equipment to complete a property survey on residential land before building an ADU coach house

Chicago recently made a big housing move. On September 26, 2025, the City Council approved a major expansion of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These small homes—like coach houses, basement apartments, and attic units—are now allowed across more neighborhoods. The decision is expected to spark a wave of new building applications. But here’s the thing: before […]