In Washington State, a land survey must be recorded in the following situations:

• Boundary discrepancies: When there's a conflict between the legal description and the actual physical boundaries.
  

• First-time monument placement: When permanent markers (monuments) are set to define property lines for the first time.
  

• Boundary changes: When a property line is established or reestablished and differs from what's shown on existing deeds or plats.
  

• Encroachments: If a structure or improvement is discovered to cross a boundary line.
  

• Court or agency requirements: When a survey is ordered by a court or required by a public agency.

A recorded survey is an official map, prepared by a licensed land surveyor, that becomes part of the public record. Governed by Chapter 58.09 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), recorded surveys:

• Define exact property boundaries
  

• Resolve inconsistencies in legal descriptions
  

• Document boundary changes or new subdivisions

Fieldwork: A licensed surveyor collects precise measurements and boundary data on-site.

Drafting: A detailed map is created, including scale, north arrow, legal descriptions, and monument locations.

Submission: The final survey is submitted to the County Auditor’s Office, where it is indexed and added to the public record.

As of 2024, the standard recording fee for a survey in Washington State is $423.50. This flat rate applies statewide, as established by uniform legislation.

Recording a survey helps:

• Prevent boundary disputes
  

• Support smooth property transactions
  

• Ensure future development follows local codes and regulations
  

• Contribute to orderly and transparent land use across the state
  

It’s a long-term investment in clarity, peace of mind, and responsible property ownership.