If you’re buying, developing, or refinancing land in Ontario, you’ll likely need a land survey, and that means understanding what it costs. But the price can vary widely depending on the city, lot size, terrain, and the type of survey you need.
In Ontario, all land surveys must be conducted by a licensed Ontario Land Surveyor (OLS), which adds professionalism but also cost. Whether you’re in London, Chatham-Kent, or Toronto, it’s critical to budget properly for this step.
This guide will walk you through average land survey costs in Ontario by city and survey type. You’ll learn what influences pricing, how to request an accurate quote, and what to expect when working with a licensed surveyor in 2025.
What does a land survey cost in Ontario?
The average cost of a land survey in Ontario is between CAD 1,800 and CAD 3,000 for a standard residential lot. Rural properties may cost less, while urban parcels or complex surveys (like topographic reports) often cost more.
What factors influence the price?
Survey costs in Ontario are influenced by:
- Type of land: Residential, commercial, rural, or vacant land all have different survey requirements.
- Lot size and shape: Irregular parcels or larger tracts take more time to measure and map.
- Survey type: Boundary surveys are simpler than topographic or legal surveys.
- Location: Urban centers like Toronto tend to cost more than rural towns like Chatham-Kent.
- Access and terrain: Steep, wooded, or water-adjacent lots require extra fieldwork.
- Previous survey data: Having an old plat or legal description can lower the price.
- Timeframe: Rush jobs often come with additional fees.
If you’re working with a tight development timeline or an unusual lot, request a detailed breakdown to understand what’s included.
How much does a land survey cost in Ontario cities?
Land survey prices vary by city in Ontario based on factors like demand, terrain, and how developed the area is. Here’s what to expect in some of the province’s most commonly searched locations.
How much does a land survey cost in London, Ontario?
In London, the average land survey cost ranges from CAD 1,800 to CAD 2,400 for a basic residential boundary survey. Prices may increase if the lot is irregularly shaped or located in older parts of the city where previous records are unclear.
London properties near the Thames River or with significant slope may also require additional terrain mapping or topographic overlays.
How much does a land survey cost in Chatham-Kent, Ontario?
In Chatham-Kent, you can expect land survey prices between CAD 1,600 and CAD 2,300. This area is known for its flat, agricultural land, which often makes surveying simpler and more affordable than in urban centers.
Lower demand and more accessible land means surveyors can complete jobs faster and may offer lower rates than in Toronto or Ottawa.
How much does a land survey cost in Toronto?
Toronto has some of the highest land survey costs in Ontario, ranging from CAD 2,000 to CAD 3,500 or more. Urban density, tight access, and permitting complexity often require more field time and legal review.
A boundary survey in Toronto might include setbacks, easement checks, and additional zoning overlays, especially in older neighborhoods or near commercial districts.
What’s the average land survey cost in rural Ontario?
In more rural areas, including cottage country and agricultural zones, survey pricing often starts at CAD 1,500 and can rise to CAD 2,200, depending on the parcel size. Larger tracts see lower per-acre costs, but travel time may add fees.
Surveyors in these areas often price per hour, with rates ranging from CAD 175 to CAD 300 depending on the firm and job complexity.
What types of land surveys are available in Ontario?
Ontario land surveys fall into several categories, each with a specific purpose. The type of survey you need directly affects the price, timeline, and level of legal detail involved.
What is a boundary survey in Ontario?
A boundary survey confirms the legal boundaries of a property and is the most common type used for buying, selling, or fencing land. In Ontario, a boundary survey typically costs CAD 1,600 to CAD 2,500 for residential lots.
Boundary surveys include:
- Measurement of lot lines based on the land title
- Identification of existing boundary markers
- Creation of a plan of survey (sketch)
- Optional corner staking or monument placement
This is the survey most homeowners or real estate buyers will need when dealing with a standard property purchase.
What is a topographic survey?
A topographic (or “topo”) survey maps elevation changes, drainage flow, trees, retaining walls, and other physical features of the land. These are usually required for:
- Site development
- New construction
- Drainage planning
Topographic surveys in Ontario typically start at CAD 2,000 to CAD 3,000, depending on lot size and complexity.
What is a mortgage or title survey?
Mortgage or title surveys are often requested by lenders or title insurance providers. These surveys confirm:
- Property boundaries
- Location of structures or encroachments
- Legal compliance with zoning or setback rules
In Ontario, a mortgage survey may cost CAD 1,800 to CAD 2,800. Lenders may not always require one for resale homes, but they are often needed for new builds, rural properties, or land-only purchases.
What is a legal or subdivision survey?
These are the most detailed surveys, often used for:
- Creating new parcels (severance)
- Subdividing land
- Resolving legal disputes or land claims
Legal surveys must meet strict standards set by the Association of Ontario Land Surveyors (AOLS). These typically cost CAD 3,500 or more, depending on legal complexity and government filing requirements.
How can I estimate my survey cost in Ontario?
To estimate your land survey cost in Ontario, you’ll need to collect a few property-specific details and request a quote from a licensed Ontario Land Surveyor (OLS). Most surveyors will give you a preliminary estimate based on lot size, location, terrain, and available documentation.
What information should I provide for a quote?
When contacting a surveyor, be prepared to share:
- Property address or Parcel Identification Number (PIN) This allows the surveyor to locate your property on the Ontario land registry or GIS mapping system.
- Lot size and boundaries Let them know the approximate size of the parcel in acres or square feet, and whether it’s part of a subdivision or a standalone parcel.
- Intended use Whether you’re buying, fencing, building, refinancing, or resolving a boundary issue, the use case affects the type of survey required.
- Any past survey documents If you have a previous survey, legal description, or plat from a prior transaction, it can reduce time and lower cost.
- Access conditions Mention if the property is wooded, sloped, remote, or near water. These conditions influence fieldwork time and difficulty.
- Timeline If you need the survey quickly (for closing or permits), expect a rush fee.
Sample quote: 1-acre boundary survey in Chatham-Kent, Ontario
Here’s an example of a real-world quote breakdown for a 1-acre residential parcel:
|
Service |
Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|
Boundary Survey (1-acre lot) |
$1,850 |
|
Preparation of Survey Plan |
Included |
|
Legal Description Verification |
Included |
|
Corner Staking (4 pins) |
$120 |
|
Travel & Admin Fee |
$100 |
|
Total |
$2,070 |
This price reflects flat-rate pricing with no rush services. Other firms may charge hourly (typically CAD 175–300/hr) depending on region and backlog.
Bonus Tip: Use a land survey cost calculator (if available)
Some Ontario surveyor websites offer basic calculators to estimate land survey costs based on lot size and postal code. While these tools won’t give a firm quote, they’re useful for early budgeting. Just be sure to verify the quote directly with a licensed OLS before making financial decisions.
How much does a land survey cost in Ontario?
Most land surveys in Ontario cost between CAD 1,800 and CAD 3,000, depending on property size, location, and the type of survey needed.
What is the average cost of a land survey in Chatham-Kent?
In Chatham-Kent, expect to pay CAD 1,600 to CAD 2,300 for a standard boundary survey on a residential lot.
What is the cost of a land survey in London, Ontario?
London surveys typically cost between CAD 1,800 and CAD 2,400, with slight variations based on terrain and property history.
Are land surveys more expensive in Toronto?
Yes, surveys in Toronto often cost CAD 2,000 to CAD 3,500 due to dense development, legal complexity, and permit requirements.
Is there a land survey cost calculator for Ontario?
Some Ontario surveyors offer quote estimators online, but for an accurate number, it’s best to contact a licensed Ontario Land Surveyor directly with your property details.
Do I need a new survey if I have an old one?
That depends. If the previous survey is more than 10 years old, or if the property boundaries have changed (e.g., fencing, subdivisions), a new survey is usually required.
What does a land survey in Ontario include?
A standard boundary survey typically includes:
- Property line measurements
- Corner staking
- A plan of survey (sketch)
- Legal document verification