Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. Department 180 — Georgia Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors Board

Chapter 180-1 Organization

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-1-.01 Organization

General organization and conduct of Board affairs shall be as stated in Georgia Code 43-15.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; 43-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Organization of Board" was filed and effective June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed by Emergency Rule 180-1-0.1 -01, entitled "Organization." Filed and effective July 31, 1975, for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of the same title adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Chapter 180-2 Applications

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-2-.01 General

(1) All applications shall be made to the Board through the licensing portal available on the Board's website. Applications made otherwise will not be accepted.

(2) An application will not be considered on file or complete, until the Board has received all data pertinent to the application. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the Board receives all necessary data, including the established fee, reference forms, education transcripts, and other required documents.

(3) Applicants applying for licensure as a Land Surveyor are required to submit a minimum of four plats or maps which meet Georgia minimum technical standards. Two shall be boundary surveys, and two shall be topographic or elevation surveys. Each plat or map shall include a unique certification by the sealing land surveyor certifying that the applicant prepared the plat under their direct supervision. Comity applicants may submit plats or maps prepared and sealed by the applicant in another state. These plats should be edited appropriately to meet the standards and requirements of the State of Georgia before submittal to the Board.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-25, 43-15-1, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-9, 43-15-10, 43-15-13, 43-15-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Grouping of Applications" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: F. July 25, 1972; eff. August 14, 1972.
• Amended: ER. 180-2-0.2-.01 entitled "General" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: F. July 22, 2002; eff. August 11, 2002.
• Amended: F. Sept. 16, 2003; eff. Oct. 6, 2003.
• Amended: F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-2-.02 Board Action on Applications

(1) Notice of the Board's action approving or rejecting an application will be given to an applicant at the email address on file with the Board.

(2) In the event the Board makes a preliminary determination that grounds may exist for rejection of an application under O.C.G.A. 43-15-15(b) , it will give notice of that determination to the applicant at the email address on file with the Board. The applicant so notified may request a hearing before the Board in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.

(3) In the event the Board rejects an application on any ground other than those set forth in O.C.G.A. 43-15-15(b) or 43-15-19 , no formal hearing will be permitted before the Board. The Board may, in its sole discretion and upon the applicant's request, permit an applicant an informal conference with the Board or with a designated member thereof for the purpose of permitting the applicant to explain, but not to supplement, his/her application. No recording of such a conference will be permitted.

(4) In the event the Board rejects an application based on insufficient experience and/or education, the applicant should not file a new application until such time as the minimum period of deferment has expired. [A period of deferment may be imposed by the Board in accordance with O.C.G.A. 43-15-15(c) ]. However, the applicant may file prior to the end of the deferment period if; in the applicant's opinion, there have been substantive changes in the rate in which experience has been earned or education obtained. The new information may be filed either as a new application or as a supplement to the original application. In either case, the required fee shall accompany each application submitted.

(5) For applications requiring that the applicant be examined, experience will be considered through the date on which such application was notarized. Experience earned between the date the application was filed and date of the next examination will be considered valid only if the applicant remains in the same, equivalent or higher position in which he/she was employed at the time of filing and may only be claimed when the applicant files a new application or supplemental application as applicable. It is the responsibility of the applicant to keep the Board informed of substantive changes in job duties and responsibilities.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-2, 43-1-25, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-9, 43-15-10, 43-15-13, 43-15-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Form of Applications" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: F. July 25, 1972; eff. August 14, 1972.
• Amended: ER. 180-2-0.2-.02 entitled "Timeliness" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. August 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Sept. 16, 2003; eff. Oct. 6, 2003.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Board Action on Applications" adopted. F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-2-.03 Examinations, General

(1) With exception of a locally prepared examination on hydrology and the legal aspects of land surveying in Georgia, all examinations will be in accordance with the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

(2)

Examinations may be taken only after the applicant has met the other minimum requirements as set forth in O.C.G.A.

43-15-8

and

43-15-9

and has been approved by the Board for admission to the examination as follows:

(a) Fundamentals of Engineering. Consists of an examination on the fundamentals of engineering. Passing this examination qualifies the examinee for an engineer-in-training certificate, provided he/she has met all other requirements for certification by this Chapter.

(b)

Principles and Practice of Engineering Passing this examination qualifies the examinee for registration as a professional engineer, provided he/she has met the other requirements for registration required by this Chapter. Applicants shall designate the branch of engineering in which they intend to practice. The Board, after consideration of the designation and a review of the experience and other information listed in the application, shall identify the appropriate NCEES exam to be administered to the Applicant.

1. Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Applicant will be directed to take the eight - hour NCEES exam that is applicable to the branch of engineering identified by the Applicant.

If the Applicant designates that he/she will engage in the branch identified as structural engineering or the Applicant's experience is deemed to be within the branch of structural engineering, the Applicant shall be directed to take the NCEES 16-hour Structural Engineering Exam.

For purposes of this rule, "structural engineering" shall be defined as engaging in the design or analysis of "Designated Structures. "Designated Structures" are defined as follows:

(i)

For buildings and other structures requiring a building permit as required by the International Building Code, adopted edition, with Georgia Amendments in current effect in the state of Georgia, a Designated Structure is any building or other structure which meets any one of the following criteria:

(I) Any building structure which has risk Category of III or IV in accordance with Table 1604.5 of the International Building Code, adopted edition, with Georgia Amendments.

(II) Any building structure which has a covered gross area of 100,000 square feet or greater or has an occupied floor elevation that is 45 feet or more above the average ground level of the building.

(III) Any building structure which with height to least width aspect ratio of the structural lateral load resisting system greater than or equal to seven.

(IV) Any building structure which is designed using nonlinear time history analysis or with special seismic energy dissipation systems.

(ii)

For bridges and other related transportation structures, a Designated Structure is one that is considered to be a "complex bridge", as described in the Georgia Department of Transportation Consultant Prequalification Manual, which includes the following:

(I) Bridges of spans longer than 300 feet

(II) Tunnels

(III) Cable-stayed bridges

(IV) Suspension bridges

(V) Movable bridges

(VI) Trusses with spans longer than 300 feet

(VII) Arch bridges

(VIII) Segmental bridges

(IX) Balance-cantilever bridges

(X) Other bridges requiring unique analytical methods or design features not commonly addressed in standards set forth by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

3. Civil Engineering applicants who engage in the design of structural elements but will not perform Structural Engineering as defined in Paragraph (2), will be directed to take the eight-hour Civil Breadth and Structural Depth exam.

(c) Fundamentals of Land Surveying. Consists of an examination on the elementary disciplines of land surveying. Passing this examination qualifies the examinee for a land surveyor-in-training certificate provided he/she has met all other requirements for certification of this Chapter.

(d) Principles and Practice of Land Surveying and the Laws of Georgia. This examination tests the applicant's understanding of the theory and practice of land surveying. This examination may be taken after passage of the Fundamentals of Land Surveying Examination.

(e) Laws and History of Land Surveying in Georgia. This examination tests the applicant's knowledge and proficiency in the laws of Georgia which apply to land surveying as well as the history of the land division systems of Georgia.

(f) Hydrology. This examination is available to land surveyors who meet the requirements of OCGA 43-15-13.1 to become recognized as a Land Surveyor whose licensure is "Hydrology and Design Authorized". This examination tests the applicant's knowledge and proficiency in the engineering principles of hydrology, open channel flow, pressurized flows, sanitary sewer collection, and stormwater management.

(3) After administration of an examination, the contents of the examination will be treated as confidential and will not be disclosed, except in such circumstances and under such conditions as may be approved by the Board. No reuse, copying or reproduction in any manner of any portion of the examination materials is permitted without the Board's permission.

(4) The Board will not conduct with examinees reviews of any portion of any examination. Further, the Board will not permit an examination to be re-scored.

(5) In case of an applicant seeking registration by comity under O.C.G.A. 43-15-16 , the Board shall review the prior experience of the applicant in determining which exam is required for licensure in Georgia.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-25, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-8, 43-15-11, 43-15-12, 43-15-13, 43-15-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Fees" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: F. July 25, 1972; eff. August 14, 1972.
• Amended: ER. 180-2-0.2-.03 entitled "Board Action on Applications" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: F. Nov. 26, 2001; eff. Dec. 16, 2001.
• Amended: F. Sept. 16, 2003; eff. Oct. 6, 2003.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Examinations, General" adopted. F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-2-.04 Repealed

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-15-8, 43-15-11, 43-15-12, 43-15-13
• History. Original Rule entitled "Examinations, General" was filed Jun. 16, 1989; eff. July 6, 1989.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Aug. 12, 1993; eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Sept. 24, 1997; eff. Oct. 14, 1997.
• Amended: F. Nov. 16, 2012; eff. Dec. 6, 2012.
• Amended: F. May 30, 2017; eff. June 19, 2017.
• Amended: F. May 17, 2019; eff. June 6, 2019.
• Repealed: F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-2-.05 Repealed

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. § 43-15-21
• History. Original Rule entitled "Temporary Permits" adopted. F. April 18, 2001; eff. May 8, 2001.
• Repealed: F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Chapter 180-3 Qualifications: Professional Engineer and Engineer-in-Training

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-3-.01 Education

As used in O.C.G.A. 43-15-8 and 43-15-9, the following terms have the meanings indicated:

(a) "Engineering curriculum of not less than four years from a school or college approved by the Board," as used in O.C.G.A. 43-15-8(1)(A) , means the engineering curricula of schools, colleges, and universities in the United States and its territories which at the time of the applicant's graduation are curricula accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (A.B.E.T.). Unless the Board determines otherwise, in a case where the curriculum in question was dropped from the accreditation list but was reaccredited within a period of five years, the Board may approve the curriculum as though there was no lapse in accreditation.

(b) "Engineering curriculum of not less than four years" as used in O.C.G.A. 43-15-8(2)(A) , includes engineering curricula in schools or colleges which are not accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (A.B.E.T.) but which may be approved by the Board in individual cases upon review of the applicant's educational transcript.

(c) "In a curriculum of four or more years in engineering technology . . . from a school or college approved by the Board," as used in O.C.G.A. 43-15-8(2)(A) , means engineering technology curricula in schools or colleges in the United States and its territories which, at the time of the applicant's graduation, are curricula accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (A.B.E.T.). Those curricula may be accepted by the Board, in individual cases, upon review of the applicant's educational transcript.

(d) "In a curriculum of four or more years in engineering technology or . . . related science curriculum from a school or college approved by the Board" as used in O.C.G.A. 43-15-8(2)(A) , means a four-year curriculum leading to a bachelor of science degree in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and similar related science curriculum of the military service academies of the United States. Those curricula may, in individual cases, be accepted by the Board upon review of the applicant's educational transcript.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 45-15-4, 43-15-8, 43-15-9
• History. Original Rule entitled "Branches of Engineering" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-3-0.3-.01 entitled "Education" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-3-.02 Experience

In evaluating experience offered as qualifying experience under O.C.G.A. 43-15-8, 43-15-9, and 43-15-10, the Board will take into consideration the following six (6) factors:

(a) Prior Education. The Board will take into consideration the applicant's education at the time the pertinent experience was acquired with the basic view that prior education determines the value of the experience.

(b) Kind of Experience. The experience should involve the application of special knowledge of the mathematical, physical, and engineering sciences; the preparation of engineering data; the organization and implementation of testing procedures or methodologies for the collection of engineering data; the preparation of engineering data; the interpretation of engineering data; and the involvement in engineering during construction by the design engineer to verify his/her engineering design.

(c) Quality. The experience should, by progression in difficulty and magnitude, demonstrate that the applicant has acquired ability to design and apply engineering principles and that his/her judgment may be trusted on projects involving public health and safety.

(d) Scope. The experience should demonstrate sufficient breadth and scope within the field selected rather than narrowly focused technical skill within the field.

(e) Progression. The record of work experience should indicate progression from initial work of simple character to recent work of greater difficulty, complexity and responsibility.

(f) Capacity and Viewpoint. The record of experience should indicate that the applicant has attained to a considerable degree those attributes of clear thinking and analysis essential to competence.

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-8 to 43-15-10, 43-15-15
• History. Original Rule was filed and effective June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Original Rule entitled "Definition of Terms" repealed by Emergency Rule entitled "Experience." Filed and effective on July 31, 1975, for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 29, 1990; eff. Aug. 9, 1990.
• Amended: F. July 27, 2006; eff. August 16, 2006.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 22, 2006; eff. Dec. 12, 2006.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-3-.03 Advanced

The Board may also accept as meeting the educational requirements of O.C.G.A. 43-15-8(1)(A), graduation from a four-year engineering curriculum of a school or college not appearing on the most recently published list of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (A.B.E.T.). The applicant, subsequent to graduation from such a curriculum, must have completed at least one additional year of study in engineering subjects in a program in which either the undergraduate or advanced degree was approved by the A.B.E.T. at the time of the applicant's study. That year's study must have resulted in the conferring of an advanced degree such as a masters degree or a doctors degree with a major in engineering. All curricula pertaining to an applicant shall be approved by the Board.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15
• History. Original Rule was filed and effective as Emergency Rule on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding said Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-3-.04 Evaluation of Foreign Education

(1) Any applicant desiring educational credit for an engineering degree from a foreign institution must submit an evaluation of such education to the Board. Such evaluation must be in a form prescribed by the Board and must be performed by an agency approved by the Board.

(2) Approved special evaluation forms and instructions may be obtained from Engineering Credentials Evaluation International (ECEI) at their website WWW.ECEI.ORG .

(3) Advanced post-graduate degrees to be accepted for educational credit must be in the same branch of engineering and current experience in which the applicant plans to practice in the state of Georgia and be from a school or college whose undergraduate curriculum is Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited in the applicant's discipline at the time of the applicant's study.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-8 to 43-15-10, 43-15-13, 43-15-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Evaluation of Foreign Education" adopted. F. Sept. 3, 1976; eff. Sept. 23, 1976.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: F. July 22, 2002; eff. August 11, 2002.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Jan. 28, 2005; eff. Feb. 17, 2005.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-3-.05 Licensure of Veterans and Military Spouses

(1)

As used in this Rule:

(a) "Military" means the United States armed forces, including the National Guard.

(b) "Military spouse" means the spouse of a service member or transitioning service member.

(c) "Professional Engineer" or "PE" means a person who is registered as a Professional Engineer under the provisions of Chapter 15 of Title 43 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.

(d) "Land Surveyor" or "LS" means a person who is registered as a Land Surveyor under the provisions of Chapter 15 of Title 43 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.

(e) "Service member" means an active or reserve member of the United States armed forces, including the National Guard.

(f) "Transitioning service member" means a member of the military or active duty status or on separation leave who is within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.

(2) Expedited applications. Effective July 1, 2017, military spouses and transitioning service members may qualify for expedited processing of a license application by showing that the applicant is a military spouse or transitioning service member and that the applicant has paid the fee and meets all requirements for a license issued under Chapter 15 of Title 43.

(3)

Licensure by comity of service members, transitioning service members, and military spouses. A service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse may qualify for a license by comity where the applicant:

(a) holds a license in good standing from another state for which the training, experience, and testing substantially meets or exceeds the requirements under Georgia law to obtain a license as a PE or LS;

(b) submits to the Board a verification of licensure from the appropriate licensing agency of another state showing that the applicant's active license is in good standing in that state;

(c) submits documentation satisfactory to the Board which verifies the applicant's status as a service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse;

(d) submits a completed application for licensure by comity on a form approved by the Board, pays the required fee, and requests a license by comity.

(4)

Education, training, and experience obtained while in the military. A service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse may obtain credit for education and experience obtained while in the military that is required for licensure by Chapter 15 of Title 43 if he or she:

(a) submits documentation of graduation from a college or university with the major and/or hourly requirements that substantially meet or exceed the requirements under Georgia law for licensure as a PE or LS;

(b) submits documentation showing years of experience doing acceptable work performed under the supervision of a person whose credentials are acceptable to the Board which meet the requirements for licensure under Georgia law;

(c) submits documentation satisfactory to the Board which verifies the applicant's status as a service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse;

(d) submits proof of passing the examinations required for licensure; and

(e) submits a completed application on a form approved by the Board for approval to take the licensure examination or for licensure and pays the required fee.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-34, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-9, 43-15-13, 43-15-14, 43-15-16
• History. Original Rule entitled "Licensure of Veterans and Military Spouses" adopted. F. Sep. 25, 2020; eff. Oct. 15, 2020.

Chapter 180-4 Land Surveyor and Land Surveyor Intern

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-4-.01 Education

(a) The Board's approval or disapproval of the applicant's education as required under O.C.G.A. § 43-15-13 will be made upon the applicant's submission of his/her application to the Board.

(b) Eighteen semester hours of land surveying course work must be earned at an accredited and recognized college or university acceptable to the board. The required eighteen hours shall not include necessary prerequisites that are required prior to said land surveying courses.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-25, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-13, 43-15-15
• History. Original Rule was filed and effective June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Original Rule entitled "Curricula Accepted by Board" repealed by Emergency Rule entitled "General." Filed and effective on July 31, 1975, for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Education" adopted. F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-4-.02 Experience

In evaluating experience offered by an applicant to qualify under O.C.G.A. § 43-15-13, the Board will consider the following factors:

(a) Prior Education. The applicant's prior education at the time the experience was acquired will be considered. Land surveying experience gained prior to completion of at least nine hours of the required eighteen semester hours of land surveying course work shall be credited to the applicant at a maximum rate of 50% credit, and at the discretion of the board.

(b)

Kind of Experience.

1. The experience should involve the special knowledge of the mathematical and physical sciences including those of the land surveying profession. It should also involve the preparation and interpretation of maps, plats, and other related data, as used in the land surveying profession.

2. A maximum of one year of experience equivalent may be granted for successful completion of undergraduate or graduate studies in a curriculum of land surveying, geomatics, civil engineering, civil engineering technology, or law, provided that any such education record to be applied as experience equivalent is in addition to the education used to meet the education requirement for O.C.G.A. § 43-15-13 .

(c)

Quality of Experience.

1. The quality of experience should demonstrate that the applicant has developed technical skills and initiative in the correct application of land surveying. The experience should also demonstrate sound judgment in the application of principles and in review of such applications of principles by others. It should also indicate the capacity to assume responsibility for work of a highly technical character.

2. Experience credit will not be granted if the experience is determined by the Board to be the unlicensed practice of land surveying.

3. For experience evaluated in regard to O.C.G.A. § 43-15-13 ,"responsible charge" shall consist of working independently in a leadership and/or decision-making role where the applicant is directly responsible for progress of land surveying projects, provided however that all such experience shall be under the direct supervisory control on a daily basis by a professional land surveyor as required by O.C.G.A. § 43-15-22 . Work in responsible charge reflects the applicant's ability to take land surveying projects from beginning to finished product and shall demonstrate the ability to competently complete all research prior to field work, competently perform a compliant field traverse that adequately identifies all applicable field evidence and elements of possession, properly analyze all field work through thorough calculations and evaluation, and prepare maps and plats that adequately depict all required elements of such maps and plats. A minimum of twenty-four months of the required experience shall be in the form of an apprenticeship. Said apprenticeship shall consist of work experience in responsible charge of land surveying projects under the direct supervision and tutelage of a professional land surveyor and will not be recognized as beginning until at least nine of the eighteen required semester hours of land surveying course work have been successfully completed. The board shall provide an endorsement form specifically for the supervising professional land surveyor regarding the apprenticeship of the applicant. The apprenticeship shall be strictly full-time work experience. The supervising professional land surveyor shall agree to focusing on the applicant's proficiency in a minimum of 3 prescribed skill sets and evaluate the applicant on such proficiency at the conclusion of the apprenticeship. The prescribed skill sets shall be boundary surveying, topographic surveying, and a third skill set to be chosen from GPS/GNSS surveying, Geographic Information Systems, construction layout, or photogrammetry (which may include LIDAR collection and laser scanning) or other skill sets acceptable to the Board. The supervising professional land surveyor must attest that in his or her opinion the applicant is competent to practice land surveying in the state of Georgia.

(d) Scope. The experience should demonstrate sufficient breadth and scope within the basic land surveying field rather than highly specialized technical skill in a very narrow and limited branch of that field.

(e) Progression. The record of work experience should indicate successive and continued progress from initial work of simple character to recent work of greater complexity, difficulty, and responsibility.

(f) Capacity and Viewpoint. The record of experience should indicate that the applicant has attained those attributes of clear thinking and keen analysis essential to competence.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-25, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-13, 43-15-15
• History. Original Rule was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Original Rule entitled "Acceptance by Advanced Degree" repealed by Emergency Rule entitled "Education." Filed and effective on July 31, 1975, for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Experience" adopted. F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of the same title adopted. F. Apr. 4, 2011; eff. Apr. 24, 2011.
• Amended: F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-4-.03 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21
• History. Original Rule was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Original Rule entitled "Acceptance by Experience" repealed by Emergency Rule entitled "Experience." Filed and effective on July 31, 1975, for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Repealed: Rule renumbered 180-4-.02. F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Chapter 180-5 Fees

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-5-.01 Fees

Fees may be imposed, revised or changed at the discretion of the Board. A copy of the schedule of fees published by the Board may be obtained upon request.

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1975, pp. 1048, 1052, 1055-1061; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-4
• History. Original Rule entitled "Long Established Practice for Engineers" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed by Emergency Rule 180-5-0.5, entitled "Fees," filed and effective on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Emergency Rule repealed and Rule entitled "Fees" adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: Rule repealed and a new Rule of the same title adopted. Filed October 7, 1980; effective October 27, 1980.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Chapter 180-6 Rules of Professional Conduct

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.01 General

(1) In order to safeguard the life, health, property and welfare of the public and to establish and maintain a high standard of integrity, skills, and practice in the professions of engineering and land surveying, the following Rules of Professional Conduct are promulgated in accordance with O.C.G.A. 43-15-6(1) . The following rules shall be binding upon every individual who possesses a certificate or a certificate of registration issued by the Board and upon every firm, professional corporation, association, governmental agency, partnership, corporation or other legal or commercial entity offering engineering or land surveying services to the public and to all personnel of such firm, corporation, partnership, association, or entity who act in its behalf in the practice of engineering or land surveying in this state.

(2) The Rules of Professional Conduct as promulgated herein are an exercise of the police power vested in the Georgia Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors by virtue of the acts of the legislature. By that investment, the said Board is authorized to establish conduct, policy, and practices in accordance with the powers hereinabove stated.

(3) All persons registered under O.C.G.A. Chapter 15, Title 43, are charged with having knowledge of the existence of these Rules of Professional Conduct and shall be deemed to be familiar with their several provisions and to understand them. Such knowledge shall encompass the understanding that the practice of engineering or land surveying is a privilege as opposed to a right. The registrant shall be forthright and candid in his/her statements or written response to the Board or its representatives on matters pertaining to professional conduct.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6(1)
• History. Original Rule was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Original Rule entitled "Work Under Seal of Another" repealed by Emergency Rule entitled "General." Filed and effective on July 31, 1975, for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.02 Protection of the Public

The engineer or land surveyor shall at all times practice in such a manner as to protect the safety, health and welfare of the public. If a registrant's engineering or land surveying judgment is overulled under circumstances where the safety, health or welfare of the public are endangered, he/she shall inform the proper authorities and his/her employer of the situation as may be appropriate.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-1, 43-15-5
• History. Original Rule was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Original Rule entitled "Additional Evidence" repealed by Emergency Rule entitled "Protection of the Public". Filed and effective on July 31, 1975, for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.03 Rules of Practice

(1) The engineer or land surveyor shall perform services only in areas of his/her competence. The engineer or land surveyor shall undertake to perform engineering or land surveying assignments only when qualified by education or experience in the specific technical field of professional engineering or land surveying involved.

(2) The engineer or land surveyor may accept an assignment requiring education or experience outside of his/her own field of competence, but only to the extent that his/her services are restricted to those phases of the project in which he/she is qualified. All other phases of such project shall be performed by qualified associates, consultants or employees who shall sign, seal, and be responsible for such other phases or technical segments of the project.

(3) The professional engineer who develops the design criteria and engineering concept for a project, provides analysis, and is responsible for the preparation of the construction documents shall be responsible for the design of the project within his/her contractual area of engineering services and shall be known as the engineer of record.

(4) In the event that a professional engineer who is not the engineer of record is used for specific portions of the work, that individual shall be a registered engineer in the State of Georgia and shall seal, sign, and date his/her own reports, calculations, and drawings. He/she shall coordinate his/her work with the engineer of record and shall be responsible to the engineer of record for that specific portion of the project design. He/she shall be known as the specialty engineer.

(5) The engineer or land surveyor shall not affix his/her signature and/or seal to any engineering or land surveying plan, document, or plat unless such plan, document, or plat is prepared by the registrant or an individual in the employ of the registrant. All plans, documents, and plats prepared by non-registrants must be prepared under the direct supervisory control of the registrant on a daily basis.

(6) The term "Direct supervisory control" as referenced in O.C.G.A. § 43-15, as related to engineering shall require the certifying registrant to provide guidance and direction to personnel in the preparation of engineering plans, documents, or drawings in each phase of the preparation of the calculations, drawings, specifications, reports, and all other work products completed by said personnel. "Personnel" shall be defined as any registrant or non-registrant employee or contract registrant or non-registrant (whether full-time or part-time) or sub-consultant to the certifying registrant who are members of the team producing work product to be certified by the certifying registrant. The term "Direct supervisory control" referenced in O.C.G.A. § 43-15, as related to land surveying, shall require the certifying land surveying registrant to provide daily guidance and direction to personnel in the performance and calculations related to field work and the preparation of land surveying drawings and other related documents. Land surveying personnel must be employed and managed directly by a registrant or firm licensed to practice land surveying in Georgia. Direct supervisory control may be typically established at a location (address) where both the certifying registrant and personnel are employed and there is a direct connection between the certifying registrant and the personnel. If the certifying registrant and the personnel are not located at the same location, then the certifying registrant must be able to demonstrate how direct supervisory control is maintained over the personnel and how the certifying registrant and the personnel maintain a direct connection for the direct supervisory control of the engineering or surveying work as indicated above, if requested by the Board. Satisfactory proof of direct supervisory control from the certifying registrant over the personnel includes, but is not limited to, written guidance or directions to the personnel; written records of ongoing communication during the project; and work product mark-ups by the certifying registrant to the personnel. The Board shall determine if such direct supervisory control provided by the certifying registrant is acceptable to the Board.

(7) In the event a question arises as to the competence of an engineer or land surveyor to perform an assignment, the Board may require him/her to submit to an appropriate examination, as determined by the Board. That action by the Board shall be required only if the question cannot be otherwise resolved to the Board's satisfaction.

(8) Renovation or the retrofitting of a building or structure is considered as the practice of engineering when the work involves the addition or reduction of weight or loading; analysis of structural systems or members; removal or addition of structural elements; analysis of drainage systems on or below the roof surface; changes to the drainage characteristics; or changes required for the building or structure to conform to current jurisdictional building codes. Nothing in this rule is intended to restrict the normal practice by registered architects. Nothing in this rule is intended to restrict the normal practice of roofing contractors insofar as repairing or the replacement of like kind of roofing systems so long as no additional weight is added.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-25, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, and 43-15-22
• History. Original Rule entitled "Rules of Practice" was filed and effective as Emergency Rule on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 1993; eff. Mar. 17, 1993.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Jan. 17, 1996; eff. Feb. 6, 1997.
• Amended: F. Nov. 13, 1997; eff. Dec. 3, 1997.
• Amended: F. May 30, 2017; eff. June 19, 2017.
• Amended: F. Jan. 12, 2026; eff. Feb. 1, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.04 Statement and Testimony

(1) The engineer or land surveyor shall be completely objective and truthful in issuing public statements, reports or testimony. He/she shall include all relevant and pertinent information in those statements, reports or testimony.

(2) The engineer or land surveyor, when serving as an expert or technical witness before any court, commission, or other tribunal, shall express an opinion only when it is founded upon adequate knowledge of the facts at issue. That expression shall reflect a background of technical competence in the subject matter, and an honest conviction of the accuracy and propriety of his/her testimony.

(3) No engineer or land surveyor licensed under O.C.G.A. Chapter 15, Title 43, shall issue statements, criticisms, or arguments on engineering or land surveying matters connected with public policy which are inspired or paid for by an interested party or parties unless he/she has prefaced such comments by explicitly identifying the party on whose behalf he/she is speaking. The engineer or land surveyor must at the same time reveal the existence of any pecuniary interest he/she may have in the matters.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6(1)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Statement and Testimony" was filed and effective as Emergency Rule on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.05 Conflict of Interest

(1) The engineer or land surveyor shall avoid conflicts of interest. The engineer or land surveyor shall conscientiously avoid conflict of interest with his/her employer or client, but, when unavoidable, the engineer or land surveyor shall forthwith disclose the circumstances to his employer or client.

(2) The engineer or land surveyor shall avoid all known conflicts of interest with his/her employer or client and shall promptly inform his/her employer of any business association, interests, or circumstances which could influence his/her judgment or the quality of his/her services.

(3) The engineer or land surveyor shall not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one party for services on the same project or for services pertaining to the same project unless the circumstances are fully disclosed to and agreed to by all interested parties.

(4) The engineer or land surveyor shall not solicit or accept financial or other valuable considerations, directly or indirectly, from material or equipment suppliers, or their representatives, for specifying their products.

(5) The engineer or land surveyor shall not solicit or accept gratuities, directly or indirectly, from contractors, their agents, or other parties in connection with work for which he/she is responsible.

(6) The engineer or land surveyor in public service as a member, advisor, or employee of a governmental body or department shall not participate in considerations or actions with respect to matters involving him/her or his/her organization's private or public engineering or land surveying practices.

(7) The engineer or land surveyor shall not solicit or accept an engineering or land surveying contract from a governmental body on which a principal or officer of his/her organization serves as a member.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Conflict of Interest" was filed and effective as Emergency Rule on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.06 Conduct

(1) The engineer or land surveyor shall solicit or accept professional employment only on the basis of his/her qualifications and competence for proper accomplishment of the work. No engineer or land surveyor may provide a fee proposal to a potential client until he/she (a) established or reviewed the scope of services for the project, (b) determined that, based on his/her review of the scope of services, that he/she is competent to provide the professional services required, and (c) made his/her qualifications known to the prospective client. On proposals including more than one engineer or land surveyor, each individual shall be responsible for complying with this rule for his/her respective portion of the proposal. The engineer or land surveyor shall not offer to pay, either directly or indirectly, any commission, political contribution, gift, or other consideration in order to secure work, exclusive of securing salaried positions through employment agencies.

(2) The engineer or land surveyor shall not falsify or permit misrepresentation of his/her or his/her associate's academic or professional qualifications. He/she shall not misrepresent or exaggerate his/her degree of responsibility for prior assignments in brochures or other presentations for the solicitation of employment. He/she shall not misrepresent pertinent facts concerning employers, employees, associates, joint ventures, or his/her or their past accomplishments with the intent and purpose of enhancing his/her qualifications or work.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Conduct" was filed and effective as Emergency Rule on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 1993; eff. Mar. 17, 1993.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.07 Ethics

(1) The engineer or land surveyor shall associate only with reputable persons or organizations. The engineer or land surveyor shall not knowingly associate with or permit the use of his/her name, or firm name, in a business venture by any person or firm which he/she knows, or has reason to believe, is engaging in business or professional practices of a fraudulent or dishonest nature.

(2) If the engineer or land surveyor has knowledge or reason to believe that another person or firm may be in violation of any of these provisions or of O.C.G.A. 43-15, he/she shall promptly present such information to the Board in writing and shall cooperate with the Board in furnishing such further information or assistance as may be required by the Board.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Ethics" was filed and effective as Emergency Rule on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.08 Convictions

A violation of O.C.G.A. Chapter 15, Title 43, or of the rules of another jurisdiction, if for a cause which in the State of Georgia would constitute a violation of O.C.G.A. 43-15 or these rules, shall be grounds for a charge of violation of these rules.

History

• Authority: Ga. Code 84-21; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6(1)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Convictions" was filed and effective as Emergency Rule on July 31, 1975, to remain in effect for a period of 120 days or until a permanent Rule covering the same subject matter has been adopted superseding this Emergency Rule.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. Filed November 4, 1975; effective November 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-6-.09 Certification

(1) The term "Certification" as used in Rule 180-6-.09(2) and (3) and relating to professional engineering or land surveying services, as defined in O.C.G.A. 43-15-2(6) and (11) , shall mean a signed statement based upon facts and knowledge known to the registrant and is not a guarantee or warranty, either expressed or implied.

(2)

When an engineer or land surveyor is presented with a certificate to be signed or sealed, he or she should carefully evaluate that certification to determine if the certification:

(a) relates to matters which are within the technical competence of the engineer or land surveyor;

(b) involves matters which are within the scope of services actually provided by the engineer or land surveyor or;

(c) relates to matters which were prepared under the supervision, direction and control of the engineer or land surveyor.

(3) Engineers or land surveyors who sign or seal certification not meeting criteria in subsection (2) are subject to discipline pursuant to O.C.G.A. 43-15-19(a)(5) .

(4) Engineers or land surveyors who prepare or issue maps, drawings, plats, plans, or electronic files which include contours or other elevation data shall note the source thereof. For land surveyors such shall adhere to Rule 180-7-.04 . For engineers, the source of contour or elevation data shall be stated which shall include the name of the surveyor (or firm) that prepared it and is responsible for it, or when depicting contours or elevation data obtained from a public source, shall include the following statement: "The topographic and elevation data shown hereon was obtained from (state source) and is not certified as correct by this engineer. Users of this data do so at their own risk". Failure to provide this statement and the required data shall be both a violation of this rule and an acceptance of responsibility for accuracy of the depicted contours or elevation data.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-15-4, 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Certification" adopted. F. Aug. 12, 1993; eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
• Amended: F. Aug. 24, 2022; eff. Sep. 13, 2022.

Chapter 180-7 Technical Standards for Property Surveys

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.01 Preamble

In order to assure the public that proper and adequate surveys, maps, plats and writings are executed in connection with property, for whatever purpose, Technical Standards are hereby established. These standards establish the minimum degrees of accuracy, completeness and/or quality in the several areas of concern in order to be considered acceptable.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-1
• History. Original Rule entitled "Examinations" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended. ER. 180-7-0.7-.01 entitled "Preamble" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.02 Land Titles and Location

(1)

(a) Every parcel of land whose boundaries are surveyed by a land surveyor should be made conformable with the record title boundaries of such land. The land surveyor prior to making such a survey shall acquire the following prerequisite data: deeds, maps, certificates of title, centerline data, right of way data, adjacent descriptions, and other boundary line locations in the vicinity as necessary or available. The land surveyor shall compare and analyze all of the data obtained and make most nearly correct legal determination possible of the position of the boundaries of such parcel. He shall make a field survey traversing and connecting all available monuments appropriate or necessary for the location, and coordinate the facts of such survey with the pre-determined analysis. Not until then shall the monuments marking the corners or such parcel be set, and such monuments shall be set in accordance with the full and most satisfactory analysis obtainable. It shall be the responsibility of the land surveyor to evaluate conformity with adjacent tracts for overlaps and gores and to report the same on all maps, plats, and reports.

(b) In the event that the land surveyor determines that it is not possible to make the survey of a parcel of land conformable with the record title of such land or that it is not possible to coordinate the predetermined analysis with the field survey, the surveyor shall explain the reason for his determination and shall denote in indisputable language, the source and reason for the corners, lines, and/or areas as shown on the plat. Such reasons may include, but are not limited to, the following: Disputed, property lines or areas; possession lines; acquiescence; adverse possession; unrecorded deeds; proposed purchase (new parcels); dubious and nebulous deed descriptions; and any adverse claim. This paragraph shall not be construed in any way to allow the surveyor to evade his/her responsibilities under the law.

(2) Any description written for conveyance or other purpose, defining land boundaries, shall be complete and accurate from a title standpoint, providing definite and unequivocal identification of the lines or boundaries, and definite recitals as to use or rights to be created through such descriptions. A description shall include the general location of the tract or lot with sufficient accuracy such that the tract can be readily located on the ground. The land lot, district, section, militia district number (in Headright Grant areas), city (if known to be within the city limits) and county shall be called out in said description. Description shall start at a point of commencement and/or a point of beginning that can be readily re-established. The description shall include the names of adjoining subdivision and/or property owners on all lines, as can be determined at the time of commencement of the survey through public records such as the county tax assessor and/or clerk of court records. (A title search is not required for this.) A metes and bounds description shall describe all courses in logical sequence around a tract or lot in a clockwise direction such that the ending point is the beginning point, the exception to this would be a description for a linear easement. The monument at each corner shall be described. All lines adjacent to streets, roads, or other rights-of-way shall be referenced to these and all pertinent distances and curve data shall be listed (arc length, chord length, chord bearing and radius) in addition to the parcel's area. All descriptions, being a form of report, shall bear the land surveyor's name, address, seal and signature.

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 15-6-67, 43-15-1, 43-15-2, 43-15-4, 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Identification Number" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-7-0.7-.02 entitled "Land Titles and Location" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: F. May 11, 2001; eff. May 31, 2001.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.03 Measurements-Horizontal

Measurements shall be made with instruments capable of attaining the required accuracy for the particular problem involved. Angles and distances shall be measured to obtain an accuracy of not less than 1:10,000 in urban or suburban areas and 1:5,000 in rural areas except as follows:

(a)

The allowable positional tolerance of property corners with respect to each other within a given survey may not be greater than:

1. 0.1 foot in urban blocks wherein buildings can be erected along the property line, or where high land values so warrant;

2. 0.25 foot in suburban subdivisions interior blocks and/or suburban lots or parcels;

0.50 in rural areas, except as follows:

(i) Closer tolerance is required where land value in rural areas is increased by adjacency to major highway intersections or thruway complexes, building congestion, oil or mineral rights or any other reason;

(ii) When a parcel of land is extremely long or narrow, closer tolerance is required on the shorter narrow dimensions to qualify acceptable corner positioning in relation to the narrow width;

(iii) Where original surveys in rural areas were made with a compass, retracement may be made by compass in order to "follow the footsteps" of the original surveyor. However, such retracement also must be reduced to a non-magnetic traverse so that the error of closure as specified above is obtained.

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-1, 43-15-2, 43-15-4, 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Grading" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-7-0.7-.03 entitled "Measurements-Horizontal" adopted. F. and eff. on July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.04 Topography and Vertical Measurements

(1)

Definitions.

As used in this rule, the following definitions apply.

(a) Field run precision leveling. A circuit of levels between precise benchmarks or a circuit closed upon the initial benchmark shall not differ more than 0.02 foot multiplied by the square root of the number of miles in the circuit, and in no case to exceed 0.05 foot.

(b) Field run local or temporary benchmark leveling. Levels run for control to topographic mapping of a site or project shall have an error of closure of not less than 0.1 foot per square root of the number of miles. The surveyor and client may agree upon different precision specifications that are deemed to be more applicable to individual situations.

(c) Positional check. A position whose location and elevation is determined by traditional or GNSS surveying equipment independently of the remainder of the survey effort or data collection exercise. When determining where to measure positional checks, the surveyor may use whatever approach and location choice that is deemed to be most applicable and feasible for the individual project. Running cross sections through a surveyed area is considered to be the most desirable, though most intensive, positional check approach. Positional checks should not be limited to easily visible and accessible areas but should include a reasonable portion in areas with ground cover and within the interior of the project. If firms or individuals are employed in the production of topographic or elevation surveys which are not regular employees under the direct supervision of the surveyor who is responsible for the work, special care must be given to providing adequate Direct Supervisory Control as defined by Rule 180-6-.03(6) . Production of contour maps and elevation data to typical survey precision or for use in applications typical for surveying works, and the advertising thereof, is considered to be the practice of Land Surveying and must be performed by properly licensed individuals and authorized firms.

(2) This rule applies to all topographic maps and plats, delineated either by contours or by points, digital terrain models, or other geospatial format with indicated elevation data, whether prepared from traditional surveying techniques or other remote sensing techniques including but not limited to aerial photography, Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), or any other remote sensing technology whether implemented from fixed stations, vehicles, manned aircraft, or unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and also includes existing data obtained from public agencies.

(3)

All drawings or electronic work product which depict or provide contours or elevation data shall contain the following information:

(a) The vertical datum of the elevations provided or reported, how the datum was verified or placed on the site (whether by level loop, GNSS observations, published benchmark, etc.),

(b) The type of survey performed to produce contours or elevation data (see paragraph 4 for each type).

(c)

The contour interval or vertical precision. Contours and elevation data provided shall be of such accuracy that no more than 10% of the area covered shall be in error by more than one half (1/2) of the contour interval shown; or such that no part of the surveyed area fails to achieve a 95% confidence level in the three-dimensional positioning provided. If initial results do not confirm required accuracy, the surveyor may either:

1. collect replacement data and retest for precision

2. identify areas which are not reliable in accordance with subparagraph e below

3. or increase the contour interval until measured precision conforms

(d) Depiction of the location of at least 3 fixed positions which can be used to situate future works into the vertical datum of the survey. Such fixed positions should include at least one stable survey monument and can also include fixed artificial positions such as fire hydrant bolts, pipe inverts, concrete surfaces, or finished floor elevations of structures.

(e) A clear explanation and delineation of any portion of the contours or elevation data which is not certified or reliable, such as areas which are obscured, shadowed, or otherwise which cannot be certified to the required mapping precision. This shall also apply to data which was obtained from a public agency or other lawful source. The following statement shall accompany any such obscured or uncertified topographic map or portion thereof: "The topographic and elevation data shown hereon was obtained from (state source) and is not certified as correct by this surveyor. Users of this data do so at their own risk".

(f) All pertinent data that may be required particular to the type of survey as set forth in paragraph 4).

(4)

The following types of elevation surveys are envisioned by this rule. Should any equipment or methodology be considered which is not clearly addressed, the most applicable type shall apply.

(a) Field run topographic surveys. Traditional surveying equipment and techniques are employed to produce a contour map. Field ran topographic surveys must state the date(s) of field work and the equipment used. Additional positional checks are not required for field ran topographic surveys.

(b) Traditional stereo photogrammetric maps. Traditional or digital photography of sufficient specifications is obtained by a manned aircraft. Contours and features are generated using stereoscopes or software. A minimum of four (4) three-dimensional ground control targets or photo-identifiable positions (known as "control points") shall be surveyed and incorporated into the preparation of such maps, and more are required as dictated by project size, photo overlap, and height of camera. The surveyor responsible for the accuracy of the survey shall perform positional checks at a number of locations that is at least that of the number of control points required, and shall report the vertical accuracy of each point or an average of the points checked. Such photogrammetric maps shall state the date of photography, the height flown, the firm or individual who performed portions of the survey, including which portions, if not the surveyor or firm issuing the map, and the results of the positional checks by the surveyor either listed individually or as an average.

(c) Ground based remote sensing (LIDAR, laser scanning, etc.). LIDAR equipment is used either from motor vehicles or fixed tripods to survey an area. Control points shall be placed and surveyed sufficiently along the perimeter of the mapped area to ensure adequate confidence level of the contours or elevation data. Positional checks shall be measured at positions deemed relevant by the surveyor who shall report the vertical accuracy of each point or an average of the points checked. Surveys and reports produced under this section shall provide the type of equipment used, the date(s) of data collection, the firm or individual who performed portions of the survey, including which portions, if not the surveyor or firm issuing the map, and the results of the positional checks by the surveyor either listed individually or as an average.

(d)

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) data collection. LIDAR, optical camera, or other remote sensing equipment is used to collect data used to prepare contour maps or elevation data. The surveyor shall survey ground control targets or photo-identifiable positions (known as "control points") along the flight lines of the UAS sufficient to provide adequate three-dimensional constraint of the data used to prepare the contours or elevation data.

The surveyor shall perform positional checks along the perimeter of and within the surveyed area. The minimum number of such positional checks shall be determined as follows:

(i) For project size 1-10 acres, a minimum of 4 positional checks are required

(ii) For project size 10-25 acres, a minimum of 8 positional checks are required

(iii) For project size 25-100 acres, a minimum of 12 positional checks are required

(iv) For project size 100-200 acres, a minimum of 24 positional checks are required

(v) For project size 300 acres or more, a minimum of 36 positional checks are required

2. Topography or elevation data produced in this manner must provide the date(s) of UAS data collection, the type of UAS including model or other identifying description, the type of LIDAR sensor or camera used, how many ground control points were used, the firm or individual who performed portions of the survey, including which portions, if not the surveyor or firm issuing the map, and the results of the positional checks by the surveyor either listed individually or as an average.

(5) Incorporation of publicly available contour or elevation data. When the surveyor incorporates contour or elevation data into a survey, map, or electronic work product, and such data is from a public source which is exempt from professional licensing and oversight by O.C.G.A. 43-15-29(b)(7) , the surveyor must state the source of the data (such as the specific agency or department), the date of data acquisition if known, the contour interval shown, the type of collection used for such data (such as photogrammetric, LIDAR, etc.), and any other pertinent information available. The work product (whether map, electronic drawing file, or other terrain model format) shall include the following statement:" The topographic and elevation data shown hereon was obtained from (state source) and is not certified as correct by this surveyor. Users of this data do so at their own risk". Failure to provide this statement and the required data shall be both a violation of this rule and an acceptance of responsibility for the depicted work by the surveyor. The surveyor may also identify which portion(s) of elevation data is from a public source in situations where the surveyor has also verified some of the data provided.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-15-6(a)(1), 15-6-67
• History. Original Rule entitled "Board Review: Passing Grade" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-7-0.7-.04 entitled "Measurements - Vertical" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: F. July 10, 1991; eff. July 30, 1991.
• Amended: F. Sept. 16, 2003; eff. Oct. 6, 2003.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.
• Amended: New title, "Topography and Vertical Measurements." F. Aug. 24, 2022; eff. Sep. 13, 2022.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.05 Monuments

(1) In order to prevent boundary conflicts, the public must have assurances that the corners of real property boundaries as determined from an accurate survey are durably marked with survey monuments that may be identified on the ground with the aid of the survey plat. In meeting this objective, surveyors must meet the following minimum standards of accuracy, completeness and quality.

(2) The land surveyor shall set monuments as defined herein, unless monuments already exist or cannot be set due to physical obstructions. Said monuments shall be set at all boundary corners. Those monuments that cannot be set due to physical obstructions shall have a reference monument set. Said reference monument shall be referenced on the plat by bearing and distance from the true position of said monument. Also, said reference monument shall be set far enough away from the true corner so as not to be confused with the position of the true corner.

(3) All monuments set shall be composed of a durable material and shall incorporate a ferrous material to aid in location by magnetic locators. Said monuments shall have a minimum length of 18 inches. Longer monuments are required in soils less likely to hold and maintain the true position of the monument. Said monuments composed of solid metal rods shall have a minimum cross sectional area of 0.2 square inches. Concrete, composite or stone monuments shall have a minimum dimension of 3 inches by 3 inches. Monuments placed at land lot corners, district corners or county corners shall if a rod have a minimum diameter of 5/8 inches, a pipe of 1 inch diameter or a concrete or stone monument of not less than 4 inches square.

(4) Every boundary monument set shall be identified with a durable marker or cap bearing the Georgia registration number of the land surveyor in responsible charge or the name of the business entity and/or Certification of Authorization number (COA #).

(5) If a boundary corner falls in a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt; alternate monumentation may be used that is durable and identifiable.

(6) For irregular boundaries such as non-engineered roads, rivers, streams, lakes, beach, etc. a dimensioned meander or survey line may be used. If a meander or survey line is used, monuments shall be set at the meander or survey line's terminus points on real property boundary lines.

(7) All monuments found or placed shall be described on the survey plat. The corner descriptions shall state the size, material and cap identification of the monument as well as whether the monument was set or found.

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-1, 43-15-2, 43-15-4, 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Time of Examination" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-7-0.7-.05 entitled "Monuments" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.06 Coordinates and Triangulation

(1) The use of state plane coordinates may be incorporated in any land survey.

(2) State plane coordinates used and shown on surveys shall meet the requirements of O.C.G.A. Sections 44-4-1 through 44-4-31 .

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-1, 43-15-2, 43-15-4, 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Examinee Information" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-7-0.7-.06 entitled "Coordinates and Triangulation" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.07 Maps and Plats

All maps, plats and similar documents which depict and describe real property boundaries shall comply with all requirements of O.C.G.A. § 15-6-67 and conform to the following minimum standards and specifications: The sealing of documents, reports, preliminary subdivision plats, topographic surveys, and other drawings that do not depict and describe real property boundaries shall be subject to Rule 180-12 (Sealing of documents). Preliminary subdivision plats shall state the source of the boundary information shown thereon and also bear a note to the effect that it is a preliminary subdivision plat that has been prepared for the purpose of review and approval, is not to be recorded, and is not to be used to convey property. Topographic surveys shall state the source of the boundary information shown thereon and also bear a note to the effect that the surveyor's certification extends only to the topographic and/or geospatial aspects shown thereon, and that the topographic survey does not constitute a boundary survey and is not to be recorded or used to convey title or interest in the property.

(a)

Material.

1. Any such surveys, maps, or plats shall be clearly legible;

2. The minimum line widths and letters or character heights delineated on such maps or plats shall be sufficient to be legible when copied or scanned at a resolution of 300 d.p.i.

(b)

Required Data. The maps or plats shall have a title or name, and shall also provide the following information:

1. The name of the entity who authorized the survey, the entity for whom the survey is prepared, or the subject of the survey such as a subdivision name or site name;

2. The county, municipality; land district and land lot (if within an area of Georgia that is divided into land lots and districts); Georgia Militia District, Reserve, or other qualifying notation (if within an area of Georgia that is not divided into land lots and districts); and subdivision, if the property lies within a particular subdivision;

3. The date(s) of field work, plat preparation and all subsequent revisions including a brief explanation of each revision;

4. A square box three inches by three inches shall be placed in the upper left-hand corner of the map or plat, which shall be left blank and reserved for recording information by the Clerk of court;

5. The scale, stated and shown graphically;

6. The name, address, telephone number, and registration number of the registered land surveyor who prepared and sealed the survey and, if working for a firm, the name and Certificate of Authorization Number of the firm that prepared the survey (the address and telephone number of the firm are acceptable in lieu of the individual surveyor's address and telephone number) or the statement that he is the county surveyor and is not required by law to be a registered surveyor; and

7. All maps or plats are to contain the applicable Surveyor Certification from O.C.G.A. § 15-6-67(b)(2) and signature in accordance with Board Rule 180-12-.02 , in order to be a valid and recordable map or plat. The original maps or plats shall be retained by the land surveyor or land surveying firm in either hard copy or electronic file, along with all applicable work material which includes, but is not limited to, field notes, field data, computations, coordinate data, electronic drawing files and property research for a period of six years from the more recent date on the map or plat.

(c) Size. Maps and plats shall be of a size that is commonly available. The map or plat shall be drawn to a scale in feet commonly found on an engineer's scale or to a scale in chains commonly found on a forester's scale. Scans or images created electronically shall be at full size and legible at a resolution of 300 d.p.i., so that future users may be able to plot all or part of the map or plat at full size and resolution. The issue of printed reductions of maps or plats which meet this requirement is allowable.

(d)

Required Content. All maps and plats shall be made in a professional manner and in accordance with the standards of good drafting procedures and shall show the following information, as specified:

1. The direction and distance from a point of reference to a point on the boundary of the individual survey, and such additional data as may be required to relocate the boundary point from the point of reference with the same degree of accuracy required of the parcel surveyed. The point of reference shall be an established, monumented position which can be identified or relocated from maps, plats or other documents on public record, including state plane coordinates when applicable. The point of reference may lie on or within the boundary of the survey;

2. Bearings of all lines of the boundary or lot lines, and distances of all boundary or lot lines, and area of the parcels expressed in acres or square feet. All bearings, distances, and areas shown on the survey shall be based upon the measurements of the surveyor, except that both the measured and the record measurements may be shown if the surveyor feels that such comparison is necessary or otherwise required, in which case a clear distinction shall be made as to which are measured and which are record. Distances that are shown for proximity purposes only and have not been measured shall be clearly labeled as "approximate";

3. The closure precision of the field survey as the ratio of one foot to the traversed distance in which an error of one foot would occur, angular error, and a statement as to the method of adjustment. The field closure stated shall be the actual linear error of closure calculated from the surveyor's actual field measurements, whether a closed traverse or otherwise, and shall not be a generalization. If the surveyor determines that a closure precision statement is not appropriate for the survey because a substantial portion of the field measurements were obtained using Global Positioning Systems, then a note of precision or positional accuracy may be placed in compliance with Rule 180-7-.09; or if the surveyor feels that a closure precision statement is not appropriate for the survey because redundant linear measurements were used to verify accuracy, the calculated positional tolerance shall be stated and shall comply with Rule 180-7-.03;

4. The closure precision of the data shown on the map or plat. The closure may be stated as follows: "This map or plat has been calculated for closure and is found to be accurate within one foot in _____ feet". The closure precision placed on the survey shall be based on an actual map closure that has been independently calculated by the surveyor by using the bearings and distances from the face of the plat, and shall not be a generalization. All lots or parcels shown on the plat shall be map checked for closure and area. In the case of a subdivision plat or a survey that depicts more than one tract, the closure precision stated may be that of the exterior or an average of the tracts;

5. The width and the former widths, if pertinent, of easements or rights-of-way adjacent to or crossing the property;

6. Apparent encroachments and observed evidence of human burials or cemeteries;

7. In the case of curved lines, the curve shall be defined by curve data to include the radius, arc length, chord bearing, and distance of regular curves. Chord distances and directions shall be given for irregular curves;

8. All land lot lines, land district lines, land section lines, and city, county, and state boundaries intersecting or adjacent to the surveyed property indicated by lines drawn upon the map or plat with appropriate words and figures, it shall be acceptable for the surveyor to label such lines as "apparent", "accepted", or "approximate", or other such qualifying language as the surveyor considers necessary or appropriate;

9. All corner markers and markers of pertinent reference points shall be fully described and indicated as to the material or types, size or dimensions, and whether set, found, or replaced. In the case of badly disturbed or deteriorated monuments that are replace for the purpose of position preservation, the survey shall indicate the size, type, and material of both the found monument and the monument with which it was replaced;

10. An arrow to indicate the principal meridian and a notation as to the reference of bearings to magnetic north, astronomic north, record or grid north. A grid north reference shall indicate the zone. Record north shall reference the document or survey to which the meridian is oriented and the line of the survey to which the "record bearing" was applied;

All linear distances shown on maps or plats shall be expressed as follows:

a. Distances shall be horizontal distances.

b. Distances shall be stated as "ground" distances (which shall also be the basis for any corresponding area calculations). Should it be necessary to state "grid" distances, both "ground" and "grid" distances shall be stated, along with the grid scale factor used, the elevation scale factor used, and the combined factor used.

c. When expressed in feet, the definition of the foot shall be based on the conversion of the meter equals 3.280839895 feet or 1 foot equals 30.48 centimeters. Nothing in this rule shall prohibit the stating of distances in meters or units other than feet, provided that a conversion factor to the foot must be stated;

12. All angular directions shall be represented in degrees, minutes, and seconds. All angular directions shall be referenced to the meridian of the survey and be denoted starting with the letter N or S (for North or South), and the degrees, minutes, and seconds, followed by the letter E or W (for East or West). All bearings and distances around the perimeter of the property shall progress consistently in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction so as to form a closed shape. Azimuths, or interior (or exterior) angles may also be shown for reference but not in lieu of bearings and shall also be stated in degrees, minutes, and seconds;

13. A statement to indicate the type of equipment used to obtain the linear and angular measurements used in the preparation of the map or plat, or the proper notations required by Rule 180-7-.09 when GPS equipment is used in performing the survey;

14. The names of adjacent property owners on all lines, along with a notation as to what documents were reviewed for each adjacent property as required by Rule 180-7-.02(1)(a) . Such notation may be the deed book and page of the record title description, recorded plats, and other documents or surveys that were obtained through the course of the survey. In cases where the adjacent property is a recorded subdivision, it is sufficient to state the name, phase if applicable, and recording information of the subdivision plat, along with lot lines and lot numbers. (A title search is not required for this.);

15. All water boundaries or similar irregular boundaries shown in sufficient detail to clearly identify the surveyed tract and the adjoining tract;

16. The character of any and all evidence of possession along or related to boundary lines clearly depicted and stated, and overlaps and gores in property lines along or within the surveyed property in compliance with Rule 180-7-.02 ;

17. Any features within or along the boundary located as requested by the client, or in conformity with the rules or requirements of any mortgagor or insurer, provided the technical standards of such rules or requirements are not less than those provided for by this chapter;

18. The surveyor shall state the type of survey depicted, whether it is a retracement survey of an existing tract (or combination of tracts), a subdivision plat, a division from a parent tract, a depiction of a disputed area or other special purpose limited survey, a utility or easement survey, or other classification of land survey as may be deemed necessary. The source of title description of the property depicted shall be stated, along with the name of the current owner(s) as indicated by the tax records or deeds.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 15-6-67, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-19, 43-15-22, 44-4-27
• History. Original Rule entitled "Engineers-in-Training" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-7-0.7-.07 entitled "Maps and Plats" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 10, 1991; eff. July 30, 1991.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Aug. 12, 1993; eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
• Amended: F. Sept. 12, 2002; eff. Oct. 2, 2002.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Mar 19, 2013; eff. April 8, 2013.
• Amended: F. May 30, 2017; eff. June 19, 2017.
• Amended: F. Nov. 28, 2023; eff. Dec. 18, 2023.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.08 Violations

The Board may initiate action in cases where a person's actions are in violation of the law beyond reasonable doubt.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-30
• History. Original Rule entitled "Engineering Examination" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-7-0.7-.08 entitled "Violations" adopted. F. and eff. on July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-7-.09 Global Positioning Systems

It shall be acceptable practice to incorporate the use of Global Positioning Systems (commonly known as GPS) equipment into any survey. The precision of all measurements made with such equipment must, at a minimum, meet all other precision standards required otherwise by law or rules under Chapter 180-7. When using GPS equipment in the course of a survey, the Land Surveyor shall state on the face of the plat, or within the report in cases where there is no plat, the following:

a. A note stating what portion (or all) of the survey was performed using GPS equipment.

b. The type of GPS equipment used, including manufacturer and model number, and whether single or dual frequency receivers were used.

c. The type of GPS survey that was performed, such as static, real time kinemeatic ("RTK"), network adjusted real time kinematic, etc.

d. A note that discloses the precision of the GPS work done, either in relative positional accuracy, vector closure, or other mathematical expression chosen by the Land Surveyor.

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-1, 43-15-2, 43-15-4, 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Land Surveying Examination" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: F. Dec. 22, 1966; eff. Jan. 9, 1967.
• Amended: No Rule adopted as ER. 180-7-0.7-.09. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Repealed: Permanent Rule repealed. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Amended: New Rule entitled "Global Positioning Systems" adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.

Chapter 180-8 Renewal of License

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-8-.01 Reinstatement of Expired License

(1) A certificate of registration which has been administratively revoked for having been expired for greater than four (4) years may be reinstated at the discretion of the Board.

(2) The applicant must complete the reinstatement application and include a summary of all experience since the date of original Georgia licensure as a Professional Engineer or Land Surveyor with accompanying experience endorsements for each engagement from professionals who are familiar with the experience provided.

(3) Applicant must include the reinstatement application fee, and upon final Board review, all other fees as provided to reinstate license registration.

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-17, 43-15-20
• History. Original Rule entitled "Disposal of Applications" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Amended: ER. 180-8-0.8-.01 entitled "General" adopted. F. and eff. July 31, 1975.
• Amended: Permanent Rule adopted. F. Nov. 4, 1975; eff. Nov. 24, 1975.
• Repealed: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: New Rule entitled "Reinstatement of Expired License" adopted. F. May 11, 2001; eff. May 31, 2001.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 22, 2006; eff. Dec. 12, 2006.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-8-.02 Inactive Licensure Status

In accordance with Chapter 295-15 of the Rules and Regulations of the Division Director regarding Inactive Status Licensing, a registrant may apply for inactive licensure status under the following conditions:

(1) A registrant who is over the age of 65 and retired; or who may become disabled may apply to the Board for inactive status by submitting the required application and paying the proper fees.

(2) While on inactive status, a registrant is exempt from payment of the biennial renewal fee and continuing education requirements.

(3) An inactive registrant may not practice professional engineering or land surveying in this State.

(4) In order to reactivate an inactive license, the registrant must submit a completed application, show compliance with continuing education requirements as set forth in Rule 180-11-.08 , and submit the reactivation fee as set forth by the Board. The Board must approve the application before the license is reactivated.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-6(b), 43-1-22
• History. Original Rule entitled "Inactive Licensure Status" adopted. F. April 18, 2001; eff. May 8, 2001.

Chapter 180-9 Procedural Rules

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-9-.01 Procedural Rules

The State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors adopts by reference as its permanent rules, Chapter 295-3 through 295-13, Rules and Regulations of the Office of the Division Director, Professional Licensing Boards, relative to Procedure for Hearing before several Professional Licensing Boards.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-1-25, 43-15-4
• History. Original Rule entitled "Registration and/or Certification Numbers" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Repealed: F. July 31, 1975; eff. August 20, 1975.
• Amended: New Rule entitled "Procedural Rules" adopted. F. Nov. 9, 1977; eff. Nov. 29, 1977.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Amended: F. July 22, 2002; eff. August 11, 2002.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-9-.02 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299, 306
• History. Original Rule entitled "Seal" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-9-.03 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299
• History. Original Rule entitled "Seal on Plans on Part of a Facility" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-9-.04 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299
• History. Original Rule entitled "Certificate of Registration and Certifications as Engineer-in-Training" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-9-.05 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299, 309
• History. Original Rule entitled "Applicants Registered by Other Authorities" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Chapter 180-10 Compliance and Enforcement

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-10-.01 Corporate Practice: Professional Engineering

(1) As used in O.C.G.A. § 43-15-23(c) , the phrase "responsible charge" means the independent control, direction and supervision, by the use of initiative, skill and independent judgment of the practice of professional engineering as defined in O.C.G.A. § 43-15-2(11) .

(2)

In order to be considered eligible for a certificate of authorization, any individual who is in responsible charge of the practice of professional engineering for the firm, corporation, professional corporation, partnership or association or other entity shall be a full-time employee of the firm, corporation, professional corporation, partnership, association or other entity, regularly engaged in the practice of professional engineering. Such individual shall not be:

(a) available to perform engineering services only on a part-time, independent contractor basis at the call of such firm, corporation, partnership, association or other business entity; or

(b) available on an if-and-when needed consulting basis; or,

(c) not actively practicing professional engineering with such firm, corporation, partnership, association or other business entity.

(3) The practice of professional engineering for any firm, corporation, partnership, association or other business entity shall not be considered to be under the direction of a professional engineer unless such professional engineer bears a continuing bonafide relation thereto and has such authority from the governing body of such business entity as would result in its being legally liable for all such professional engineer's professional acts and judgments.

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1975, pp. 1048-1071, Ga. Code 84-2106(a); O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-4(a), 43-15-6(1), 43-15-23
• History. Original Rule entitled "Hearings and Violations" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.
• Amended: Rule entitled "Corporate Practice; Professional Engineering" adopted. Filed November 23, 1981; effective December 13, 1981.
• Amended: F. Aug. 9, 1990; eff. Aug. 29, 1990.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Corporate Practice: Professional Engineering" adopted. F. Jan. 10, 1991; eff. Jan. 30, 1991.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-10-.02 Corporate Practice: Land Surveying

(1) As used in O.C.G.A. § 43-15-23.1(c) , the phrase "responsible charge" means the independent control, direction and supervision, by the use of initiative, skill and independent judgment of the practice of land surveying as defined in O.C.G.A. § 43-15-2(6) .

(2)

In order to be considered eligible for a certificate of authorization, any individual who shall be in responsible charge of the practice of land surveying for the firm, corporation, professional corporation, partnership, association or other entity shall be a full-time employee of the firm, corporation, professional corporation, partnership, association or other entity, regularly engaged in the practice of professional land surveying. Such individual shall not be:

(a) available to perform land surveying services only on a part-time, independent contractor basis at the call of such firm, corporation, partnership, association or other business entity; or

(b) available on an if-and-when needed consulting basis; or,

(c) not actively practicing land surveying with such firm, corporation, partnership, association or other business entity.

(3) The practice of land surveying for any firm, corporation, partnership, association or other business entity shall not be considered to be under the direction of a land surveyor unless such land surveyor bears a continuing bonafide relation thereto and has such authority from the governing body of such business entity as would result in its being legally liable for all such land surveyor's professional acts and judgments.

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1975, pp. 1048-1071; Ga. Code 84-2106(a); O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-15-4(a), 43-15-6(1), 43-15-23.1
• History. Original Rule entitled "Hearings: Registrants" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.
• Amended: Rule entitled "Corporate Practice; Land Surveying" adopted. Filed November 23, 1981; effective December 13, 1981.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Corporate Practice: Land Surveying" adopted. F. Jan. 10, 1991; eff. Jan. 30, 1991.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-10-.03 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299, 309; Ga. L. 1955, pp. 611, 612
• History. Original Rule entitled "Violations: Non-Residents" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Chapter 180-11 Continuing Professional Competency

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.01 Introduction

Beginning January 1, 1997, as stated in O.C.G.A. 43-15-6(b), ". . . which begins after the 1996 renewal cycle," every registrant shall meet the continuing professional competency requirements of these rules for professional development as a condition for licensure renewal.

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299; O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6(b)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Reconsideration of Applications and Re-Applications" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.
• Amended: New Rule entitled "Introduction" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.02 Definitions

Terms used in this section are defined as follows:

(a) Professional Development Hour. A contact hour (nominal) of instruction or presentation. The common denominator for other units of credit. The numerical unit of measure used in calculating compliance with this Chapter is a Professional Development Hour or PDH. All units and hours attributed to the courses and activities acceptable in satisfying this Chapter's requirement are translated into PDH's by operation of Rule 180-11-.04 of this Chapter.

(b) Course/Activity. Any qualifying course or activity with a clear purpose and objective which will maintain, improve, or expand the skills and knowledge relevant to the land surveyor's or professional engineer's practice.

(c)

Continuing Education Course/Unit.

1. Continuing Education Course. A course, seminar, workshop or other professional or technical presentation or activity taken or attended for the purpose of maintaining, improving, or expanding the skills and knowledge relevant to the registrant's practice.

2. Continuing Education Unit. The unit of measure attributed to Continuing Education Courses is a Continuing Education Unit or CEU. Ten (10) hours of class in a Continuing Education Course equals one (1) Continuing Education Unit.

(d)

College Courses/Unit Measure.

1. College Course. When used in this Chapter, a College course is a technical course in a curriculum which has been accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, or a technical course that is specifically relevant to engineering or surveying, which is offered by a college, university, or other institution.

(e) College/Unit Semester/Quarter Hour. A College/Unit Semester/ Quarter Hour is a unit of measure attributed by the offering college, university, or institution, to a particular course, which is translated into PDH's by operation of Rule 180-11-.04 of this Chapter.

(f) Registrant. When used in this Chapter, a person who is licensed as either a professional engineer or a land surveyor is deemed to be a registrant.

(g) Dual Registrant. When used in this Chapter, a person who is licensed as both a professional engineer and a land surveyor is deemed to be a dual registrant.

(h) Board. The State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

(i) Sponsor. A sponsor is an organization, college, university, institution, or individual which provides a course/activity for which the professional engineer or land surveyor seeks to obtain Professional Development Hour credit.

(j) Successful Completion of a Course/Activity. Satisfactory completion of a course/activity taken for the purpose of obtaining PDH's means fulfilling the course or activity's requirements and obtaining a certificate of completion or its equivalent.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Supplement to Application" adopted. F. and eff. June 30, 1965.
• Repealed: F. July 31, 1975; eff. August 20, 1975.
• Amended: New Rule entitled "Definitions" adopted. F. July 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.
• Amended: F. May 21, 1998; eff. June 10, 1998.
• Amended: F. Nov. 26, 2001; eff. Dec. 16, 2001.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.03 Requirements

(1) Professional Engineers. Every professional engineer is required to obtain fifteen (15) PDH's each twelve (12) month (Annual) renewal period. If a professional engineer exceeds the requirements in any annual renewal period, a maximum of seven and one half (7.5) PDH's may be carried forward into the subsequent renewal period.

(2) Land Surveyors. Every land surveyor is required to obtain seven and one half (7.5) PDH's each twelve (12) month annual renewal period. In addition, every land surveyor must ensure that, once every two (2) years, at least three (3) PDH's in "Minimum Technical Standards" be included in their PDH's acquired. The "Minimum Technical Standards" material shall include a review of all board rules and applicable state laws pertaining to the practice of land surveying specific to the state of Georgia. If a land surveyor exceeds the requirements in any annual period, a maximum of three and three quarters (3.75) PDH's may be carried forward into the subsequent renewal period.

(3) Dual Registrants. The person with a dual license is required to obtain fifteen (15) PDH's each twelve (12) month (Annual) renewal period. If a dual registrant exceeds the requirement in any annual renewal period, a maximum of seven and one half (7.5) PDH's may be carried forward into the subsequent renewal period. At least one-third (1/3) of the PDH's in a renewal period must be obtained in engineering, and one-third (1/3) in surveying. The remaining units may be in either field, at the discretion of the registrant.

(4)

PDH's may be earned as follows:

(a) Successful completion of college courses.

(b) Successful completion of continuing education courses.

(c) Successful completion of correspondence, televised, videotaped, audiotaped, and other short courses/tutorials taken for the purpose of maintaining, improving, or expanding the skills and knowledge relevant to the land surveyor's or professional engineer's practice.

(d) Presenting or attending seminars, in-house courses, workshops, or professional or technical presentations made at meetings, conventions or conferences which are relevant to the land surveyor's or professional engineer's practice.

(e) Teaching or instructing in any area relevant to the land surveyor's or professional engineer's practice.

(f) Authoring published papers, articles, or books in any area relevant to the land surveyor's or professional engineer's practice.

(g) Active participation in professional or technical societies. (For professional engineers only).

(h) Receiving patents in any area relevant to the land surveyor's or professional engineer's practice.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-15-4, 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Exemptions-How to Obtain" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.
• Amended: New Rule entitled "Requirements" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 22, 2006; eff. Dec. 12, 2006.
• Amended: F. Oct. 9, 2020; eff. Oct. 29, 2020.
• Amended: F. May 20, 2024; eff. June 9, 2024.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.04 Units

The conversion of other units of credit to Professional Development Hours is as follows:

(1) One (1) college or unit semester hour: 45 PDH

(2) One (1) college or unit quarter hour: 30 PDH

(3) One (1) Continuing Education Unit: 10 PDH

(4) One (1) Hour of professional development in coursework, seminars, or professional or technical presentations made at meetings, conventions, conferences, or examination preparation.

(5) For teaching of professional development coursework as in 180-11-.04 , apply a multiple of two (2). Teaching credit valid for teaching a course or seminar for the first time only. Teaching does not apply to full-time faculty.

(6) Authorizing published papers, articles, or books in any area relevant to the land surveryor's or professional engineer's practice: 10 PDH

(7) Active participation in professional and technical society (for professional engineers only): 2 PDH

(8) Each patent in any area relevant to the land surveyor's or professional engineer's practice: 10 PDH

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Units" adopted. F. July 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 3, 1999; eff. Feb. 23, 1999.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Nov. 26, 2001; eff. Dec. 16, 2001.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.05 Determination of Credits

The Board has the final authority regarding:

(a) Approval of courses, classes, seminars, meetings, and all other methods of satisfying the requirements of this Chapter; and

(b) The number of PDH's allocated to each course, class, seminar, meeting, and any other method of satisfying the requirements of this Chapter.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6(b)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Determination of Credits" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.06 Recordkeeping

To ensure compliance with continuing education requirements, the Board shall randomly audit a number of registrants. Registrants licensed by way of examination or comity, shall be exempt from continuing education requirements for their first renewal period. A registrant found not to have satisfied continuing education requirements shall, after notice and hearing, be subject to an initial $500.00 fine. Furthermore, a registrant found not to have remedied continuing education deficiencies six (6) months after such fine shall, after notice and hearing, be subject to, at the discretion of the Board, suspension of the registrant's license until such time as the registrant satisfies the Board that registrant has become compliant with continuing education requirements. Maintaining records to be used to support PDH's claimed is the responsibility of the registrant. Records required include:

(a) A log showing the type of activity, sponsoring organization, location, duration, instructor's, or speaker's name, and PDH's earned.

(b) Attendance verification records in the form of completion certificates; or other documents supporting evidence of attendance; or records as maintained by professional organizations; or other similar repositories designated by the Board.

(c) The log and records described in Rule 180-11-.06(a) and (b) must be maintained for a period of four (4) years and copies may be requested by the Board for audit verification purposes.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-25, 43-15-4, 43-15-6, 43-15-19
• History. Original Rule entitled "Recordkeeping" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.
• Amended: F. Jan. 15, 2026; eff. Feb. 4, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.07 Exemptions

A registrant is exempt from the professional development education requirements under any of the following circumstances:

(1) Registrants licensed by way of examination or comity, shall be exempt for their first renewal period.

(2) A professional engineer serving on temporary duty in the armed forces of the United States for a period of time exceeding one hundred twenty (120) consecutive days shall be exempt from obtaining 15 of the professional development hours required during that biennial period in which the majority of the days of duty fall. Likewise, a land surveyor shall be exempt from obtaining 7.5 professional development hours during that biennial period.

(3) Registrants experiencing physical disability, illness, or other extenuating circumstances as approved by the Board may be exempt. Supporting documentation must be furnished to the Board.

(4) Registrants over the age of 65 who have applied for an inactive license, who list their occupation as "Retired" or "Inactive" on the Board-approved renewal form, and who further certify that they are no longer receiving any remuneration from providing professional engineering or land surveying services shall be exempt from professional development hours. In the event such a person elects to return to active practice of professional engineering or land surveying, professional development hours must be earned as described in " 180-11-.08 Reinstatement" before returning to active practice.

(5) Individuals who qualify for exemption by way of paragraph (4) above may continue to use the words Professional Engineer (or P.E.), or Land Surveyor (or L.S.) as appropriate, after their names as long as they continue to fall under the restrictions specified and are not actively practicing engineering or land surveying.

(6) Registrants over the age of 65 who are engaged in the active practice of their profession and who have held a valid Georgia license for the previous 25 consecutive years shall be exempt from professional development requirements.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 15-6-67, 43-15-4(a), 43-15-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Exemptions" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.
• Amended: F. Feb. 11, 2000; eff. Mar. 2, 2000.
• Amended: F. July 7, 2021; eff. July 27, 2021.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.08 Reinstatement

A registrant may bring an inactive or suspended (provided all other conditions of the suspension are filled) license to active status by obtaining all delinquent PDH's. A MINIMUM OF 15 PDH's are required for each year in an inactive or suspended status for professional engineers and 7.5 PDH's for land surveyors, up to a maximum of 30 PDH's for professional engineers and 15 PDH's for land surveyors.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6(b)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Reinstatement" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.
• Repealed: New Rule, same title, adopted. F. Oct. 13, 1998; eff. Nov. 2, 1998.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.09 Comity/Out-of-Georgia Resident

The Board shall recognize the continuing education requirements imposed by other states to the extent that such continuing education courses meet the requirements imposed by the Board. Comity/Out-of-Georgia residents will be required to keep recordkeeping as listed under Rule 180-11-.06.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec 43-15-6(b)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Comity/Out-of-Georgia Resident" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-11-.10 Forms

Included with all license renewal applications will be a continuing education summary log form that the registrant must use to summarize the professional development hours for which he/she has requested credit during the current biennial period. In order to ensure compliance with O.C.G.A. 43-15-6(b), the Board shall audit some registrants at a later date and will instruct them to submit this form to the Board office, signed and certified. The form must supply sufficient detail relevant to continuing education hours claimed in order to permit the Board to complete its audit.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-15-6(b)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Forms" adopted. F. Jul. 8, 1996; eff. July 28, 1996.

Chapter 180-12 Sealing of Documents

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.01 Description

The seal authorized by the State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors for registrants may be of the crimp type and/or rubber stamp facsimile or may be computer generated. The seal design is to be circular in form, the diameter of the outer circle being 1 1/2 inches, and the diameter of the inner circle being one inch. The registration seal design will be furnished to each registrant as part of the licensure process.

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299; 43-15-22
• History. Original Rule entitled "Preamble" was filed on October 24, 1968; effective November 12, 1968.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.
• Amended: Rule entitled "Description" adopted. F. April 18, 2001; eff. May 8, 2001.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.02 Sealing of Documents

(1) The term, "documents," as used herein shall mean engineering and/or land surveying work issued in the form of plans, drawings, maps, surveys, reports, specifications, design information, and calculations, including such work issued in digital form.

(2) The term "issued" as used herein shall mean documents in the final form which bear the seal, signature and date of the registrant and the entity's Certificate of Authorization Name, Authorization Number and Expiration date of the COA (as required by GA Law 43-15-23. Practice of professional engineering by or through firm, corporation, or other entity for COA requirements.)

(3) The registrant shall seal, sign and date and provide COA name, Authorization Number and expiration date of the COA all original final documents which are issued to a client or any public agency. The sealing of documents by the registrant shall certify that the work was performed by the registrant or under the direct supervisory control of the registrant on a daily basis. For engineering documents, the date of signature shall be placed immediately under the seal and signature.

(4) No registrant shall issue or allow to be issued draft, incomplete, preliminary, in-progress, or for-review document or any type that contains the seal of the registrant unless such document does not contain a signature. Further, any such draft shall display the date of issue and a notation under or adjacent to the seal in bold lettering, such as "PRELIMINARY", "DRAFT", "NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION or "FOR REVIEW ONLY," which clearly identifies the purpose for which the document is issued. Any document containing a seal, signature, date and COA information as required in (2) above shall be considered to be issued.

(5) Seals, signatures, dates, COA Information and/or other notations required by this Rule shall be placed on original documents such that the seal, signature, date, COA Information and/or notations, will be reproduced when copies or scans are made. A "facsimile signature" that is to be placed on a property survey map or plat in accordance with O.C.G.A. 15-6-67 may be a scanned image of an actual signature or a computer generated signature, and must be kept in the strict control of the land surveyor.

(6) Each drawing sheet, whether bound or unbound, shall be sealed, signed and dated by the registrant(s) responsible for the work on that sheet and contain the entity's COA information. If necessary due to number of sheets, in lieu of providing a seal, signature, date, and COA information on each drawing sheet, a summary sheet may be included in the form of a clearly drafted table or other format that identifies each registrants seal, signature, date, and COA information and which includes a narrative that clearly describes the element of work for which each registrant is responsible and indicates the most current version of each sheet. This summary sheet shall be included within the final documents. If a document is sealed, signed and dated and contains the entity's COA information by more than one registrant, the portion of the work for which each registrant is responsible shall be clearly noted.

(7) Each document that is sealed, signed and dated by a registrant shall contain the name, address, and contact information of the firm or sole practitioner certifying the work. Each document shall have the entity's COA information included.

(8) Documents as defined in Paragraph (1) that are transmitted electronically beyond the direct control of the licensee shall have the computer-generated seal removed from the original file, unless signed with an electronic signature as defined in Paragraph (9) of this Rule. After removal of the seal the electronic media shall have the following inserted in lieu of the signature and date: "This document originally issued and sealed by (name of sealer), (license number), on (Date of sealing) and the entity's COA Information. This medium shall not be considered a certified document." Hardcopy documents containing the original seal, signature, date and entity's COA information of the licensee may be duplicated by photocopy or electronic scanning processes and distributed either in hardcopy or electronic medium. The scanned digital files of certified documents are not subject to the requirements of this Paragraph. The electronic transmission beyond the direct control of the licensee of CAD, vector or other files subject to easy editing are subject to the requirements of this paragraph. Easy editing is based on the file consisting of separate elements that can be individually modified or deleted.

(9)

Documents to be electronically transmitted beyond the direct control of the licensee that are signed using an electronic signature shall contain the authentication procedure in a secure mode and a list of the hardware, software and parameters used to prepare the document(s). Secure mode means that the authentication procedure has protective measures to prevent alteration or overriding of the authentication procedure. This paragraph does not apply to property survey maps and plats governed by O.C.G.A.

15-6-67

which may be submitted in an electronic file format that is regulated by the Georgia Superior Court Clerks Cooperative Authority. The term "electronic signature" shall be an electronic authentication process that is attached to or logically associated with an electronic document. The electronic signature shall be:

(a) Unique to the licensee using it;

(b) Capable of verification;

(c) Under the sole control of the licensee; and

(d) Linked to a document in such a manner that the electronic signature is invalidated if any data in the document is changed.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-15-4(a), 43-15-6(a), 43-15-22
• History. Original Rule entitled "Land Titles and Location" adopted. F. Oct. 24, 1968; eff. Nov. 12, 1968.
• Repealed: F. July 31, 1975; eff. August 20, 1975.
• Amended: New Rule entitled "Sealing of Documents" adopted. F. May 7, 2001; eff. May 27, 2001.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Jan. 28, 2005; eff. Feb. 17, 2005.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Feb. 25, 2008; eff. Mar. 16, 2008.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Jan. 23, 2009; eff. Feb. 12, 2009.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Dec. 7, 2011; eff. Dec. 27, 2011.
• Amended: F. May 30, 2017; eff. June 19, 2017.
• Amended: F. May 17, 2019; eff. June 6, 2019.
• Amended: F. Aug. 24, 2022; eff. Sep. 13, 2022.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.03 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299
• History. Original Rule entitled "Measurements-Horizontal" was filed on October 24, 1968; effective November 12, 1968.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.04 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299
• History. Original Rule entitled "Measurements-Vertical" was filed on October 24, 1968; effective November 12, 1968.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.05 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299
• History. Original Rule entitled "Monuments" was filed on October 24, 1968; effective November 12, 1968.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.06 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299
• History. Original Rule entitled "Coordinate Surveys and Base Triangulation Systems" was filed on October 24, 1968; effective November 12, 1968.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.07 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299
• History. Original Rule entitled "Maps and Plats" was filed on October 24, 1968; effective November 12, 1968.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-12-.08 Repealed

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1945, pp. 294, 299, 310; Ga. L. 1955, pp. 611, 612
• History. Original Rule entitled "Violations" was filed on October 24, 1968; effective November 12, 1968.
• Amended: Rule repealed. Filed July 31, 1975; effective August 20, 1975.

Chapter 180-13 Repealed (180-13-.01)

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 180-13-.01 Repealed