A cadastral survey is a foundational step in land development, and for many property owners it’s the line between certainty and costly mistakes. Whether your project involves building a home, subdividing property, or clarifying land ownership, understanding cadastral surveys is essential. In this article we explain how cadastral surveys work, why they matter in California, […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
September 26th, 2025
In every successful building, grading or environmental restoration effort, the first essential step is to understand the land itself. That begins with asking: what is a topographical survey? Also called a topographic survey or topography survey, this is a specialized type of land survey that captures both the shape and features of a site. In […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
September 22nd, 2025
Looking for the cheapest type of land survey, while understanding land survey cost implications, whether you need a basic boundary survey, a mortgage survey, or a new construction survey, this comprehensive guide helps property owners in California make informed decisions. At Golden State Design & Engineering (GSDE), we help property owners navigate land survey, boundary […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
August 21st, 2025
When planning any development, selling real estate, or resolving property title issues in California, it is essential to understand the types of land surveys that may be required, land survey costs, and how a professional land surveyor supports the overall construction process by defining property boundaries precisely and providing detailed survey information. Whether you are […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
August 18th, 2025
Understanding how much does a land survey cost is essential for any property owner planning a landscape construction project, new construction survey, or subdivision. When you need a land survey, knowing the land survey cost, what affects it, and how to work with professional land surveyors can save money and frustration. Whether you need a […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
August 15th, 2025
What Is a Zoning Variance? A zoning variance is a legal exception to local zoning laws that allows a property owner to use or build on land in a way that would otherwise be prohibited by existing ordinances and local regulations. This zoning exception is not a change in the zoning code itself, but a […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
July 31st, 2025
Why Getting a Property Survey Matters If you are buying, building on, or selling land, one of the first questions you should ask is: how do I get a land survey for my property? A professional property survey provides clarity on your property lines, helps you meet legal requirements, and protects you from costly mistakes. […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
July 21st, 2025
When preparing for a construction project in California, whether you’re planning a new building, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), a pool, or even a home addition, one essential document stands between you and your building permit: a plot plan. This scaled drawing offers a clear, accurate representation of your property, existing structures, and proposed work, […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
June 27th, 2025
Lot line adjustments 101 is a valuable resource for California real estate law and property owners looking to manage land boundaries efficiently. Whether you’re dealing with agricultural or forested lands or rural areas, facing issues where you inadvertently cross property lines, or preparing for California real estate transactions, a boundary line adjustment permit can streamline […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
June 20th, 2025
For any property owner in California looking to change how their land or building is used, understanding conditional use permits is critical. Whether you’re planning to open a small business in a residential neighborhood, operate a private school, or develop commercial real estate that doesn’t match the underlying zoning rules, a conditional use permit may […]
Golden State Design & Engineering
June 13th, 2025