If you're planning to build, renovate, subdivide, or resolve a boundary dispute in Brisbane, one of the first questions you'll ask is: "How much will a land survey cost?"
The answer depends on several factors, including:
- The type of survey you need
- The size of your property
- The complexity of the job
In this guide, we'll break down typical survey costs in Brisbane for 2026 and help you understand what influences the price.
Typical Survey Costs in Brisbane (2026)
While every property and project is different, here are general price ranges for common survey types in Brisbane:
Boundary Survey
A boundary survey (also called an identification survey or re-establishment survey) in Brisbane typically costs $2,800 to $4,500+ (inc GST) for most residential blocks.
This survey identifies and marks your property boundaries, which is essential for:
- Fence installations
- Resolving boundary disputes
- Confirming property lines before construction
The price varies based on the size of your block, the number of boundary points that need to be located, and whether the original survey marks can be easily found.
Detail Survey
A detail survey (also known as a contour and detail survey or feature survey) generally ranges from $1,900 to $3,300+ (inc GST) for residential properties.
This comprehensive survey captures all physical features on your land:
- Levels and contours
- Existing structures
- Trees and vegetation
- Services and utilities
- Drainage features
Detail surveys are typically required for development applications, building designs, and construction projects where precise site information is crucial.
Subdivision Survey
If you're looking to subdivide your land in Brisbane, survey costs typically start from $4,500 to $12,000+ depending on the complexity.
Subdivision surveys involve multiple stages:
- Preliminary surveys
- Plan preparation
- Lodgement with council
- Final registration with the Queensland Government
Construction Set-Out Survey
A construction set-out survey usually costs between $1,800 to $4,200 for residential projects. This survey marks out the exact position of your new building on-site, ensuring it's constructed in the correct location according to approved plans and setback requirements.
What Affects Land Survey Costs in Brisbane?
1. Property Size
Larger blocks require more time to survey, more boundary points to locate, and more area to cover. A standard 400m² suburban block will cost significantly less than a 5-acre rural property or a large commercial site.
2. Terrain and Access
Properties with difficult conditions require more time and effort:
- Steep slopes
- Dense vegetation
- Limited access
- Creek boundaries
- Significant level changes
3. Survey Type and Complexity
A simple boundary identification is less expensive than a comprehensive detail survey with contour mapping. Projects involving easements, multiple title parcels, or complex cadastral research will increase costs.
4. Location Within Brisbane
While most surveyors service all of Brisbane, properties in outer suburbs or rural areas may incur additional travel costs. However, the difference is usually minimal for properties within the greater Brisbane area, including:
- Southside suburbs
- Northside suburbs
- Surrounding regions
5. Urgency
If you need a survey completed within a tight timeframe, some surveyors may charge an expedited service fee. Planning ahead can help you avoid rush charges.
6. Council Requirements
Some projects require specific survey information for council approval. The more detailed the council requirements, the more comprehensive (and costly) your survey will need to be.
Do You Need a Survey for Council Approval?
In most cases, yes. Brisbane City Council typically requires a detail survey as part of your development application for:
- New home construction
- Major renovations or extensions
- Subdivision applications
- Swimming pool installations
- Retaining walls over a certain height
- Commercial developments
Even if council doesn't explicitly require a survey, your architect or building designer will almost certainly need one to create accurate plans.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
The best way to find out exactly how much your survey will cost is to request a free, no-obligation quote from a qualified surveyor.
At City Surveyors Brisbane, we provide detailed quotes based on:
- Your property address
- The type of survey you need
- Access and terrain considerations
- Your timeline requirements
Pricing note: These Brisbane ranges were benchmarked against publicly published quote guides from local QLD survey firms (including Survey My Block, BPlanned, and Steve Cooper & Associates) and are indicative only. Final pricing depends on lot history, title complexity, access, terrain, and required deliverables.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a boundary survey in Brisbane? +
A standard boundary survey in Brisbane is typically in the $2,800 to $4,500+ range (inc GST) for residential properties. The exact cost depends on your block size, terrain, and how easily the original survey marks can be located. Contact us for a free quote specific to your property.
Is a detail survey more expensive than a boundary survey? +
Yes, detail surveys generally cost more because they're more comprehensive. While a boundary survey identifies property lines, a detail survey maps all features, levels, and contours on your land. Expect to pay around $1,900 to $3,300+ for a residential detail survey, while boundary identification surveys in Brisbane are often higher at around $2,800 to $4,500+.
Do I need a survey for council approval in Brisbane? +
Most development applications in Brisbane require a detail survey. This includes new builds, extensions, subdivisions, and major structures like swimming pools or retaining walls. Even if council doesn't explicitly require it, your architect or designer will need survey information to create accurate plans.
Can I get a free quote for my land survey? +
Absolutely. We provide free, no-obligation quotes for all survey types. Simply contact us with your property details and the type of survey you need, and we'll provide an accurate quote — usually within 24 hours.
Get Your Free Survey Quote Today
Not sure which survey you need or what it will cost? City Surveyors Brisbane offers free quotes for all survey types across Brisbane and surrounding areas. Call us today on (07) 3477 9914 or request a quote online.