I85PREP
⌘ K
FL Land Surveyor study materials
FL Land Surveyor study resources

FL Land Surveyor practice questions

One question at a time. Build your FL Land Surveyor understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 472, F.S., which entity is responsible for licensing and regulating land surveyors and mappers in Florida?

  1. The Florida Surveying and Mapping Society through its ethics committee
  2. The Florida Department of Transportation through its survey division
  3. The Department of Environmental Protection through its land records office
  4. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation through the Board of Professional Surveyors and Mappers Correct answer.

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., places regulation of surveyors and mappers under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, with the Board of Professional Surveyors and Mappers exercising the specific licensing and disciplinary authority created by statute.

Question 2Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Which Florida statute governs the practice of surveying and mapping and establishes the Board of Professional Surveyors and Mappers?

  1. Chapter 120, F.S.
  2. Chapter 177, F.S.
  3. Chapter 472, F.S. Correct answer.
  4. Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., is the practice act that creates the Board and sets out licensing, discipline, and scope-of-practice requirements for surveyors and mappers. Chapter 177 addresses platting and land boundaries, and Chapter 120 is the Administrative Procedure Act.

Question 3Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A Florida-licensed surveyor signs and seals a boundary survey. Under Chapter 472, F.S., the seal primarily signifies which of the following?

  1. That the survey has been recorded with the clerk of the circuit court
  2. That the survey was reviewed and approved by the county surveyor
  3. That the surveyor accepts responsibility for the work and is competent in the subject matter Correct answer.
  4. That the firm carrying the surveyor's name is financially insured

Explanation

Sealing and signing a survey is a professional assertion that the licensee prepared or directly supervised the work and takes responsibility for its accuracy and competence. It is not a recording act, an insurance certification, or an approval by another official.

Question 4Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Which chapter of the Florida Administrative Code contains the Board of Professional Surveyors and Mappers' rules on licensing, continuing education, and practice?

  1. Chapter 28-20
  2. Chapter 61G17
  3. Chapter 5J-17 Correct answer.
  4. Chapter 62-6

Explanation

The Board's rules appear in Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C., which implements Chapter 472, F.S. The other chapters govern unrelated programs such as building codes, environmental permitting, and administrative procedure.

Question 5Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., a plat of a subdivision must be submitted for approval to which local governmental entity before it is recorded?

  1. The governing body of the local government having jurisdiction Correct answer.
  2. The clerk of the circuit court
  3. The Florida Department of State
  4. The property appraiser of the county

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires plat approval by the governing body with jurisdiction over the subdivision before recording. The clerk records the plat but does not approve it, and neither the Department of State nor the property appraiser has plat approval authority.

Question 6Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Which statement best describes the scope of the statutory definition of surveying and mapping under Chapter 472, F.S.?

  1. It is limited to measuring and monumenting boundary lines of real property
  2. It covers only work performed for governmental agencies
  3. It includes determining boundaries, preparing plats and descriptions, and measuring and locating improvements and elevations Correct answer.
  4. It applies only to work involving federal public lands

Explanation

The statutory definition is broad and includes boundary determination, plat and description preparation, and measuring and locating improvements, elevations, and other features. It is not confined to boundary lines, government clients, or federal lands.

Question 7Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A licensee receives a formal administrative complaint from the Department. Which chapter of the Florida Statutes establishes the procedures for the ensuing administrative proceeding, including the hearing before an administrative law judge?

  1. Chapter 120 Correct answer.
  2. Chapter 472
  3. Chapter 718
  4. Chapter 177

Explanation

Chapter 120, F.S., the Administrative Procedure Act, governs agency action, formal complaints, and hearings conducted by administrative law judges of the Division of Administrative Hearings. Chapter 472 supplies the substantive grounds for discipline.

Question 8Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Which of the following activities requires licensure as a surveyor and mapper in Florida?

  1. Inspecting a septic tank drainfield for a health department
  2. Drafting a site plan showing building footprints for an architect
  3. Preparing a mortgage loan estimate for a lender
  4. Preparing a legal description that establishes a new boundary line for a parcel Correct answer.

Explanation

Establishing boundary lines and preparing boundary descriptions fall within the licensed practice of surveying and mapping under Chapter 472, F.S. The other tasks belong to architects, lenders, or environmental health officials.

Question 9Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A surveyor discovers that a previously recorded survey contains a significant error. Under Chapter 472, F.S., which course of action is most consistent with professional obligations?

  1. Wait for a client to discover the error before acting
  2. Quietly revise the file copy without any record of the change
  3. Delegate the correction to an unlicensed assistant without review
  4. Correct the record through an appropriate instrument and notify affected parties Correct answer.

Explanation

Professional responsibility requires that known errors affecting the public record be corrected and that affected parties be informed; silent alteration of records or deferring action is inconsistent with the duty to protect the public. Unlicensed assistants may not take responsibility for professional work.

Question 10Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., when must a surveyor show a discrepancy between a plat and a monumented boundary on a plat of survey?

  1. Only when the client requests it in writing
  2. Whenever the discrepancy is material and affects the boundary as depicted Correct answer.
  3. Only when the discrepancy exceeds one foot
  4. Never, because plats are presumed conclusive

Explanation

Chapter 177 requires that plats reflect conditions found on the ground, and material discrepancies affecting boundaries must be shown rather than suppressed. There is no one-foot threshold and plats are not conclusive against monumented evidence.

Question 11Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A licensee is convicted of a felony unrelated to surveying. Which statement best describes the potential disciplinary consequence under Chapter 472, F.S.?

  1. The license is automatically revoked upon conviction in all cases
  2. Discipline may be imposed only if the felony involved a boundary dispute
  3. No action is possible because the offense is unrelated to practice
  4. The conviction may constitute grounds for disciplinary action by the Board Correct answer.

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., lists certain criminal convictions among the grounds for disciplinary action, and the Board evaluates the circumstances. Automatic revocation is not prescribed for every felony, and relevance to surveying is not the sole test.

Question 12Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A developer asks a surveyor to prepare a plat without the local governing body's approval so it can be recorded immediately. What is the surveyor's proper response under Chapter 177, F.S.?

  1. Record the plat with a notation that approval is pending
  2. Decline, because recording requires prior approval by the governing body Correct answer.
  3. Record the plat if the clerk accepts it for filing
  4. Record the plat and obtain approval afterward

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires governing body approval before a plat may be recorded; recording first and seeking approval later defeats the statutory review process. The clerk's acceptance does not substitute for approval.

Question 13Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Which of the following best describes the continuing education requirement applicable to Florida surveyors and mappers?

  1. No continuing education is required after initial licensure
  2. Continuing education is satisfied solely by paying a renewal fee
  3. Continuing education is required only for surveyors who perform federal work
  4. Licensees must complete Board-approved continuing education each renewal cycle, including specified subject areas Correct answer.

Explanation

The Board requires approved continuing education each renewal cycle, with specific hours and subject-area requirements such as laws and rules and ethics. Paying a fee or limiting education to federal work does not satisfy the requirement.

Question 14Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 472, F.S., which statement about the use of the title 'surveyor and mapper' is correct?

  1. Any person may use the title if employed by a licensed firm
  2. The title may be used by engineers registered under Chapter 471 without restriction
  3. Only individuals licensed under the chapter may use the title or hold themselves out as surveyors and mappers Correct answer.
  4. The title may be used by unlicensed persons if they disclose their status

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., restricts use of the title and representations of licensure to individuals licensed under that chapter. Employment by a licensed firm, registration as an engineer, or disclosure of unlicensed status does not authorize use of the title.

Question 15Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A surveyor is asked to certify a boundary survey prepared entirely by an unlicensed technician with no involvement by the licensee. What does Chapter 472, F.S., require?

  1. The surveyor may not sign and seal work not prepared or directly supervised by the licensee Correct answer.
  2. The surveyor may sign if the client provides written consent
  3. The surveyor may sign and seal it because the technician is competent
  4. The surveyor may sign if the technician signs a waiver

Explanation

Sealing work asserts that the licensee prepared or directly supervised it; certifying another's unsupervised work misrepresents professional responsibility. Competence, waivers, and client consent do not substitute for the licensee's actual involvement.

Question 16Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Which Florida statute addresses the recording and legal effect of a plat of survey and the requirements for the certificate of a surveyor on the plat?

  1. Chapter 177, F.S. Correct answer.
  2. Chapter 120, F.S.
  3. Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.
  4. Chapter 472, F.S.

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., sets out plat content, certificates, approval, and recording requirements and their legal effect. Chapter 472 addresses licensure and practice, while Chapter 120 governs agency procedure.

Question 17Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A county proposes a local ordinance that would impose survey standards stricter than those in Chapter 177, F.S. Which statement best describes the relationship between the ordinance and state law?

  1. Local ordinances always control over conflicting state statutes
  2. Local ordinances may supplement state law where not in conflict, but may not authorize what state law prohibits Correct answer.
  3. Local ordinances are void unless expressly authorized by Chapter 472
  4. Local ordinances apply only to federally funded projects

Explanation

Florida local governments may adopt standards consistent with and supplementary to state law, but a conflicting ordinance cannot override a state statute. The other choices misstate the hierarchy of state and local authority.

Question 18Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Which of the following is a recognized ground for disciplinary action against a Florida surveyor under Chapter 472, F.S.?

  1. Practicing beyond the scope of licensure or competency Correct answer.
  2. Serving as an expert witness in litigation
  3. Working for a firm owned by a non-surveyor
  4. Advertising services in a newspaper

Explanation

Practicing outside one's scope or competence is expressly among the grounds for discipline because it endangers the public. Advertising, expert testimony, and working for a non-surveyor-owned firm are not unlawful in themselves.

Question 19Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 472, F.S., what is the effect of a surveyor's failure to maintain required records of a survey?

  1. It requires immediate surrender of the license
  2. It voids all prior surveys by the licensee automatically
  3. No effect, because records are optional
  4. It may constitute a violation subject to disciplinary action Correct answer.

Explanation

The Board requires licensees to maintain records of their work, and failure to do so can support disciplinary action. It does not automatically void prior surveys or force surrender of the license.

Question 20Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A surveyor is asked to prepare a description of state-owned submerged lands. Which consideration is most relevant under Florida law?

  1. Submerged land boundaries are set solely by federal statute
  2. Submerged lands are always privately owned if the upland owner pays taxes
  3. Submerged lands may be conveyed by any licensed surveyor
  4. Sovereignty submerged lands are held by the state, and boundary determinations must account for the state's ownership interest Correct answer.

Explanation

Florida holds title to sovereignty submerged lands, and surveys affecting the mean high-water line or similar boundaries must respect the state's ownership interest and applicable statutory procedures. Surveyors do not convey land, and federal law does not alone fix these boundaries.

Question 21Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A licensee is the subject of a formal administrative complaint. Which sequence best reflects Chapter 120, F.S., procedure?

  1. Direct filing in circuit court without any agency proceeding
  2. Agency complaint, opportunity for hearing before an administrative law judge, then final agency action Correct answer.
  3. Board vote without notice to the licensee
  4. Agency complaint, informal settlement, then automatic license revocation

Explanation

Chapter 120, F.S., provides for notice of agency action, an opportunity for a formal hearing before an administrative law judge when disputed issues of material fact exist, and a final order by the agency. Automatic revocation and decisions without notice are inconsistent with due process.

Question 22Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A surveyor locates a discrepancy between a recorded plat and monumented evidence on the ground while retracing a boundary. Which principle best guides the resolution under Florida boundary law?

  1. Courses and distances always control over monuments
  2. The most recent survey controls regardless of evidence
  3. The recorded plat always controls over physical monuments
  4. Natural and artificial monuments generally control over courses and distances, subject to rules of construction Correct answer.

Explanation

Under established boundary principles applied in Florida, monuments generally prevail over courses and distances, with the hierarchy of evidence applied through rules of construction. Neither the plat nor the most recent survey automatically overrides field evidence.

Question 23Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A licensee is offered compensation contingent on the boundary location the surveyor reports. What is the proper professional response under Chapter 472, F.S.?

  1. Decline, because contingent compensation compromises independence and may violate the standards of practice Correct answer.
  2. Accept if the surveyor is confident in the result
  3. Accept if the client discloses the arrangement
  4. Accept only if the contingency is paid by a third party

Explanation

Professional independence is fundamental; accepting compensation that depends on a particular boundary result creates a conflict of interest and undermines public trust. Disclosure, confidence, or third-party payment does not cure the conflict.

Question 24Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., which statement best describes the treatment of a plat that has been approved and recorded?

  1. It expires after five years unless renewed
  2. It is a public record that may be used as evidence, subject to established boundary rules and field evidence Correct answer.
  3. It is conclusive as to all boundary locations regardless of field evidence
  4. It has no evidentiary value in boundary disputes

Explanation

A recorded plat is a public record with evidentiary weight, but it does not conclusively fix boundaries contrary to monumented evidence or the rules of construction. It does not automatically expire.

Question 25Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A surveyor is asked to sign a certificate stating that a survey complies with all applicable local, state, and federal requirements without reviewing the project. What is the appropriate course of action?

  1. Sign with a disclaimer that the certificate is unverified
  2. Sign, because the certificate uses standard language
  3. Decline to certify compliance that has not been verified Correct answer.
  4. Sign only if the client indemnifies the surveyor

Explanation

Certifying unverified compliance is a false professional statement regardless of standard language, disclaimers, or indemnity. The licensee must actually perform the review before certifying compliance.

Question 26Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., what is the maximum time allowed after a plat of survey is recorded for the surveyor to furnish a copy of the plat to the client who ordered the survey?

  1. 180 days after recording
  2. 90 days after recording
  3. There is no requirement to furnish a copy to the client
  4. 30 days after recording Correct answer.

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires that the surveyor furnish a copy of the recorded plat of survey to the person for whom the survey was made within 30 days after the plat is recorded. The duty runs from the recording date, not from completion of fieldwork.

Question 27Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 472, F.S., which entity is responsible for certifying a surveyor intern's qualifying experience before the intern may sit for the principles and practice examination?

  1. The county property appraiser
  2. The Department of Environmental Protection
  3. The Florida Board of Professional Surveyors and Mappers Correct answer.
  4. The local chapter of a professional surveying society

Explanation

The Florida Board of Professional Surveyors and Mappers administers licensure and evaluates qualifying experience for surveyor interns under Chapter 472, F.S., and Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C. Property appraisers, private societies, and environmental agencies have no licensure authority.

Question 28Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C., what information must appear on the seal impression used by a Florida surveyor and mapper?

  1. Only the licensee's signature and the date of survey
  2. The licensee's name, license number, and the words 'Professional Surveyor and Mapper' Correct answer.
  3. The firm's federal employer identification number
  4. The name of the county in which the survey was performed

Explanation

Rule 5J-17, F.A.C., prescribes the content of the surveyor's seal, which identifies the licensee by name and license number along with the professional title. The seal is a personal identification device, not a firm or project identifier.

Question 29Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A licensed surveyor and mapper wishes to use the designation 'P.S.M.' after their name on business cards. Under Chapter 472, F.S., which statement best describes this practice?

  1. It is prohibited because only the full title may be used
  2. It is permissible because the abbreviation denotes the license held Correct answer.
  3. It is permissible only if the firm is also licensed
  4. It is prohibited unless the board grants a special waiver

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., recognizes use of the title and standard abbreviations indicating licensure as a surveyor and mapper. Using an abbreviation that accurately reflects the license is not a misrepresentation. Firm licensure and individual waivers are unrelated to personal title use.

Question 30Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 120, F.S., a surveyor facing a disciplinary proceeding is entitled to which of the following before a final order is entered?

  1. An automatic stay of all department action pending appeal
  2. A hearing conducted under the Administrative Procedure Act's formal hearing provisions Correct answer.
  3. Binding arbitration administered by the board
  4. A jury trial in circuit court

Explanation

Chapter 120, F.S., the Administrative Procedure Act, governs formal administrative proceedings, including the hearing rights of licensees facing discipline. Jury trials and board-administered arbitration are not part of that framework.

Question 31Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., a surveyor preparing a plat of survey must show which of the following with respect to the boundary?

  1. The relationship of the boundary to the nearest established section or quarter-section corner Correct answer.
  2. Only the deed distances recited in the client's chain of title
  3. The zoning classification of adjoining properties
  4. The assessed value of each parcel depicted

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires plats of survey to depict the boundary in relation to the public land survey system corners so the survey can be tied to the statewide reference framework. Deed recitals alone do not provide that geographic tie.

Question 32Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A Florida surveyor is hired to retrace a boundary and finds that the client's deed calls for a distance that conflicts with monumented evidence. Under Chapter 177, F.S., what must the surveyor do?

  1. Refuse to complete the survey until the deed is reformed
  2. Show the monumented boundary and note the discrepancy with the record description Correct answer.
  3. Adjust the monuments to match the deed distance
  4. Record a new deed correcting the client's title

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires the surveyor to depict conditions found on the ground and to disclose conflicts with record information rather than conceal or correct them. Surveyors report evidence; they do not alter monuments or convey title.

Question 33Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 472, F.S., which of the following is required for a business entity to offer surveying and mapping services in Florida?

  1. Approval of the firm's articles of incorporation by the board
  2. Registration of the firm with the board and designation of a licensed surveyor and mapper in responsible charge Correct answer.
  3. A surety bond equal to the firm's annual gross revenue
  4. A separate license issued to every employee of the firm

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., requires firms offering surveying services to be registered and to place a licensed surveyor and mapper in responsible charge of the firm's professional work. Individual licensure of every employee and board review of corporate documents are not required.

Question 34Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., what must a surveyor do when a plat of survey is based on a boundary that the surveyor could not fully establish?

  1. Delay recording until all uncertainty is permanently resolved
  2. Show the boundary as fully established and note nothing
  3. Omit any reference to the uncertainty to avoid confusing the client
  4. State the limitations and the basis for the boundary shown on the plat Correct answer.

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires plats to disclose the basis and limitations of the survey so that users understand what was and was not established. Concealing uncertainty misleads the public and is inconsistent with the statute.

Question 35Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C., how many continuing education hours must a Florida surveyor and mapper complete during each biennial renewal period?

  1. Twelve hours, all of which must be in ethics
  2. Forty hours, all of which must be in boundary law
  3. Twenty-four hours, including at least one hour in laws and rules Correct answer.
  4. Eight hours, with no subject requirements

Explanation

Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C., sets a twenty-four hour biennial continuing education requirement that includes a laws and rules component. The other figures do not match the rule and misstate the subject distribution.

Question 36Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A surveyor signs and seals a plat of survey but the fieldwork was performed by an unlicensed field crew under the surveyor's direct supervision. Under Chapter 472, F.S., which statement is correct?

  1. The plat may be sealed only if the crew chief also signs it
  2. The surveyor may seal the plat only after the board reviews the fieldwork
  3. The surveyor may seal the work because responsibility for the professional product rests with the licensee Correct answer.
  4. The crew members must each obtain a license before the plat may be sealed

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., permits licensees to use subordinates for surveying tasks while the licensed surveyor retains professional responsibility for the work. Sealing by the responsible licensee is the mechanism that assures accountability.

Question 37Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., a surveyor records a plat of survey and later discovers a clerical error in a bearing shown on the plat. Which course of action is consistent with the statute?

  1. Alter the recorded plat in the public records without notice
  2. Prepare and record a corrected plat of survey identifying the correction Correct answer.
  3. Ask the property appraiser to amend the recorded plat
  4. Take no action because recorded plats cannot be corrected

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., contemplates correction of recorded plats of survey through a corrected plat that identifies the correction made. Physical alteration of recorded instruments and reliance on unrelated officials are not proper methods.

Question 38Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 472, F.S., which of the following best describes the board's authority regarding a licensee who practices while impaired by alcohol?

  1. The board must refer the matter to criminal court and take no action
  2. The board lacks jurisdiction because impairment is a personal matter
  3. The board may impose discipline, including suspension or restriction of the license Correct answer.
  4. The board may only issue a private letter of caution

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., authorizes discipline where a licensee practices while impaired, because impairment compromises the public's interest in competent surveying. Discipline may include suspension, restriction, or other penalties within the board's authority.

Question 39Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A Florida surveyor is asked to perform a survey in a county that has adopted a local ordinance requiring additional monumentation. Under Chapter 177, F.S., how should the surveyor proceed?

  1. Apply only the standards the client is willing to pay for
  2. Comply with the local requirement where it is more stringent than the state minimum standards Correct answer.
  3. Ignore the ordinance because state law occupies the field exclusively
  4. Seek a board order invalidating the ordinance before beginning work

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., sets minimum standards and does not displace more stringent local requirements adopted under proper authority. A surveyor should satisfy both layers of regulation where they apply.

Question 40Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 120, F.S., what is the significance of a recommended order issued by an administrative law judge in a surveyor disciplinary case?

  1. It automatically vacates the administrative complaint
  2. It contains findings of fact and conclusions of law that the board considers before entering a final order Correct answer.
  3. It is the final agency action and is immediately appealable
  4. It is advisory only and may be disregarded without explanation

Explanation

Under Chapter 120, F.S., the administrative law judge issues a recommended order with findings and conclusions, and the agency then enters a final order after consideration. The recommended order is not itself the final agency action.

Question 41Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., which statement best describes the effect of recording a plat of survey that has been properly certified and approved where required?

  1. It provides public notice of the survey and the boundary information depicted Correct answer.
  2. It transfers ownership of the depicted parcels to the local government
  3. It conclusively establishes title in the name of the surveyor's client
  4. It eliminates the need for any future boundary retracement

Explanation

Recording a plat of survey gives public notice of the survey and the boundary information it depicts; it is not a conveyance and does not adjudicate title. Title questions remain matters of law resolved outside the recording of a survey.

Question 42Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A client offers a Florida surveyor a bonus if the surveyor reports a boundary line at a particular location favorable to the client. Under Chapter 472, F.S., what is the appropriate response?

  1. Decline the arrangement and report the boundary based solely on competent evidence Correct answer.
  2. Accept the bonus but disclose it on the plat
  3. Accept the bonus because compensation terms are unregulated
  4. Accept the bonus if the client signs a written acknowledgment

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., prohibits compensation contingent on findings that compromise professional judgment, because such arrangements undermine the integrity of the survey. A written acknowledgment or disclosure does not cure the conflict.

Question 43Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C., which of the following is required when a Florida surveyor and mapper signs and seals a survey document?

  1. The seal must be applied and the document signed and dated by the licensee Correct answer.
  2. The seal may be omitted if the document is delivered electronically
  3. The seal must be embossed in wax to be valid
  4. The seal may be applied by any employee of the firm

Explanation

Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C., requires the licensee to sign, date, and seal the professional document so that responsibility is identifiable. Delegation of sealing to unlicensed employees and omission for electronic delivery are not permitted.

Question 44Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., a surveyor preparing a plat of survey for a parcel that abuts a body of water must address which of the following?

  1. The navigability classification assigned by the Coast Guard
  2. The number of dock permits issued by the county
  3. The market value of the riparian rights
  4. The location of the mean high water line or other applicable water boundary Correct answer.

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires water boundaries such as the mean high water line to be located and depicted where applicable, because sovereign submerged lands and riparian boundaries depend on that line. Value, permitting, and federal classification data are not plat content.

Question 45Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 472, F.S., a licensee who fails to respond to a lawful subpoena issued during a board investigation faces which consequence?

  1. No consequence because subpoenas require court enforcement first
  2. Disciplinary action for failure to cooperate with the board's investigation Correct answer.
  3. Automatic permanent revocation without a hearing
  4. Referral of the matter to the property appraiser

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., makes failure to cooperate with a board investigation a ground for discipline. Permanent revocation without a hearing and referral to unrelated officials do not describe the statutory consequence.

Question 46Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A Florida surveyor is retained to survey a parcel and discovers that a prior surveyor recorded a plat showing a boundary that the current evidence contradicts. Under Chapter 472, F.S., which statement best describes the current surveyor's professional obligation?

  1. Withdraw from the engagement to avoid contradicting a colleague
  2. Report the prior surveyor to the board before completing any fieldwork
  3. Depict the boundary supported by current evidence and disclose the conflict with the prior record Correct answer.
  4. Adopt the prior recorded boundary to preserve consistency in the public records

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., obligates the surveyor to exercise independent professional judgment based on evidence and to disclose material conflicts with record documents. Consistency with prior recordings is not a substitute for an accurate survey.

Question 47Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 120, F.S., a surveyor who wishes to challenge a final order of the board must seek review in which forum?

  1. The district court of appeal by petition for review Correct answer.
  2. The Division of Administrative Hearings by new petition
  3. The circuit court by complaint for declaratory judgment
  4. The board itself by petition for rehearing as the exclusive remedy

Explanation

Chapter 120, F.S., provides that final agency action is reviewed by petition to the appropriate district court of appeal. Circuit court declaratory actions and rehearing before the agency are not the prescribed route for direct review of final agency action.

Question 48Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., which combination of circumstances most clearly requires a surveyor to note a discrepancy on a plat of survey?

  1. The property appraiser's assessed value changed during the year
  2. Record distances in the deed differ from measured distances between found monuments Correct answer.
  3. Adjoining owners disagree about landscaping along the line
  4. The client requests a different scale for the drawing

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires disclosure where measured evidence conflicts with record information such as deed distances, because that conflict is material to boundary interpretation. Drafting preferences, neighbor disputes, and assessment changes are not record discrepancies.

Question 49Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

A Florida surveying firm's licensed surveyor in responsible charge resigns. Under Chapter 472, F.S., which statement best describes the firm's obligations regarding continued practice?

  1. The firm may continue indefinitely because its registration remains in effect
  2. The firm must promptly designate another licensed surveyor and mapper in responsible charge to continue offering services Correct answer.
  3. The firm must dissolve immediately upon the resignation
  4. The firm may continue if a surveyor intern assumes the responsible charge role

Explanation

Chapter 472, F.S., ties a firm's authority to practice to the presence of a licensed surveyor and mapper in responsible charge, so a replacement must be designated promptly. Firm registration alone does not authorize practice without that individual, and dissolution is not mandated.

Question 50Standards of Practice and Florida surveying and mapping law (Chapters 120, 177, 472, F.S.; Chapter 5J-17, F.A.C.)

Under Chapter 177, F.S., a surveyor is preparing a plat of survey and finds that a monument called for in the record description is missing but collateral evidence supports its original location. Which approach best reflects the statutory and professional standard?

  1. Report the corner as undisturbed to avoid confusing the client
  2. Set a new monument at the record bearing and distance without further analysis
  3. Reestablish the corner from acceptable collateral evidence and disclose the basis on the plat Correct answer.
  4. Omit the missing corner from the plat because it cannot be found

Explanation

Chapter 177, F.S., requires the surveyor to depict the boundary based on evaluated evidence and to disclose the basis for reestablished corners. Arbitrary resetting from record calls alone, omission, and misreporting the corner's status all defeat the purpose of the plat.