Top 5 Reasons You Might Need a Land Surveyor in Montana

Most property owners don’t think about land surveying until a problem arises. Whether you’re purchasing land, building on your lot, or facing a dispute, a land surveyor plays a crucial role in protecting your property rights. 

In a growing state like Montana—especially around busy markets like Billings—land use is becoming more complex. In this post, we’ll highlight the top 5 reasons you might need a land surveyor and how it can save you time, money, and legal headaches down the road. 

1. You’re Buying Property in Montana 

Before closing on any real estate transaction, it’s smart to confirm exactly what you’re purchasing. A land surveyor can verify the boundaries, easements, and dimensions of the property—and check if any structures encroach on neighboring land. 

Without a survey, you may unknowingly inherit:
- A neighbor’s shed or fence on your lot
- Inaccurate lot dimensions
- Hidden access easements or utility lines 

In Billings, where property development is expanding into previously rural areas, these issues are increasingly common. A survey protects both buyers and sellers by ensuring the land matches what’s promised in the deed. 

2. You’re Building a Fence, Garage, or Home Addition 

Thinking about building a new fence or garage? You’ll want to know your exact property lines. Montana law doesn’t require you to get a survey before building—but skipping it can lead to serious issues later. 

If a structure crosses into a neighbor’s property, you could be forced to move or remove it. Surveys ensure your improvements are legal and help you avoid expensive disputes. 

In Billings neighborhoods like the Heights or West End, where parcels are tightly packed, a few inches can make all the difference. 

3. You’re Dealing with a Property Line Dispute 

Few things sour neighborly relations faster than a disagreement over boundaries. Whether it’s about a shared driveway, a tree, or a misplaced fence, these issues often boil down to unclear or inaccurate property lines. 

A licensed land surveyor provides objective, legally recognized evidence of where your land begins and ends. In many Montana courts, a professional boundary survey is key to resolving disputes quickly and fairly. 

4. You’re Subdividing or Developing Land 

If you’re turning one parcel into two (or more), you’ll absolutely need a survey. Land surveyors play a vital role in:
- Mapping new lot lines
- Meeting Yellowstone County subdivision requirements
- Providing data for zoning and development approval 

For developers and landowners looking to build in the Billings area, working with a surveyor early in the process keeps things running smoothly and helps avoid rework or permitting delays. 

5. You Need to Comply With Zoning, Permits, or Legal Descriptions 

Montana municipalities—including Billings—have specific setback rules, zoning laws, and right-of-way regulations. These can affect where you’re allowed to build, how close you can build to a street or neighbor, and what kind of improvements are allowed. 

A surveyor ensures that your property’s legal description matches reality—and that you’re in compliance with all local requirements. This is especially important if you're applying for permits or refinancing through a lender. 

Bonus Reason: Peace of Mind 

Even if none of the above applies to you right now, a professional land survey gives you clarity and confidence. You’ll know:
- Where your property starts and ends
- That you're in compliance with local laws
- That you’ve taken the right steps to protect your investment 

For rural properties, historic parcels, or undeveloped land, a survey can reveal surprising (and valuable) information. 

When in Doubt, Survey It Out 

A land survey might not be the first thing on your to-do list, but it should be. Especially here in Montana, where vast landscapes meet growing urban sprawl, clearly defined boundaries are more important than ever. 

Call us at 406-551-1916 for a free quote today, or visit prairiepointlandsurveyor.com to learn more about our services. Let’s ensure your next project in Billings succeeds!