Create a Basemap

The base map is an accurate representation of your existing landscape, scaled, showing all existing permanent hard or softscape features such as sheds, paths, rocks, or large trees and shrubs. The basemap is a plain view drawing which is a birds-eye view of your landscape. Graph paper helps make accurate measurements and makes it easier to calculate areas. Each square can be used to represent a specific dimension. For example, one square equals one square foot. You can purchase larger sheets of graph paper or attach several 8.5 x 11” pieces together.

Mapping

Current property maps and base information are often found on a property survey, subdivision plat, deed or available from the local planning office. If this is not available, then grab a tape measure and head outside. For this job, a 100-foot measuring tape is helpful.

1. Place an arrow indicating the direction of North.

2. Locate the property corner markers. If none are found, estimate their locations.

3. Measure from each corner point (outlining your property) and record this on a sketch of the property. Make the sketch approximately the shape of the property. (If the property is too large to measure, consider mapping just the area chosen for the landscape project.)

4. Measure streets and sidewalks in relation to the property lines before locating the house.

5. Take measurements of the house by starting at a corner. Sketch in the approximate outline, or footprint.

6. Record distances between each corner on the sketch.

7. Measure from corners of house to street or boundary. Once the house is measured on all sides and it’s position on the property, you can transfer this information accurately on your graph paper.

8. Now you can record measurements of all the remaining features of the existing landscape