Blog · September 27, 2026
Aerial Photo vs Lot Lines
An aerial photo shows roofs, trees, and pavement at one moment. Lot lines are record lines drawn on top.
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When a county viewer drapes parcels over a photo, the photo can be a year or two old and the lines can be shifted a few feet for the fit. Shadows and roof edges are not corners.
On the recorded sheet
Use the photo to recognize the house. Use the plat dimensions to discuss the line.
The mix-up to avoid
A clearer satellite picture does not create a more official boundary.
Find the county map
The county GIS map is the practical place to start. Find it from the Platbookmapper directory, then treat the recorded plat and deed as the documents behind the picture.
Not a survey. County GIS and tax parcel maps are assessment and planning layers. They are not a substitute for a recorded plat, deed, or licensed survey.