Measure Your Existing Site: The First Step in Landscape Design

Transforming a yard starts with an accurate base map. Check for existing surveys (builder, architect, mortgage office, deed, county). If none, measure yourself in under an hour (or hire a surveyor if boundaries are disputed).

Recording Data & Figuring Slope

• Use a long tape, notebook, pencil. A helper is great; solo, anchor tape with a rock or skewer.
• For large yards, pace a known distance (50 or 100 ft) to calibrate your stride.
• Sketch house and property roughly. Measure property lines, then locate house by measuring from each corner perpendicular to two nearest property lines. Measure all structures, trees, plantings to keep. Record on sketch as you go.
• Mark eaves, doors, windows, downspouts, meters, utility lines.

• Record distances between structures. Sight from post to corners to stay square.
• Accuracy > neatness. Locate all structures, trees, walks, drives, overhead/underground utilities.

Measuring Slope Grade

Mark a board in feet. Butt against a stake at slope top. Level board, measure from board bottom to ground. Example: 2 ft drop over 5 ft horizontal = 2:5 grade.