CA PLS Exam Preparation
Comprehensive preparation for the California Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) exam. Based on the January 2025 Test Plan with 6 modules and 57 topics. Content adapted from CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.
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Module 1: Business Practices and Project Management
1Explaining Land Surveying to the Public2Proposals and Contracts3Procuring Surveying Services4Directing Personnel5Coordinating with Third Parties6Project Standards7Project Execution Planning8Monument Preservation9Managing a Surveying Business10Subdivision Map Act11Professional Land Surveyors Act12Conflicts of Interest
Module 2: Research, Project Planning and Preparation
Module 3: Field Operations and Investigations
Module 4: Analysis and Evaluation
33Analyzing Field Evidence and Documentation34Evaluating Historic vs. Measured Accuracy35Spatial Relationships of Maps and Data36Boundary Location Conflicts37Title Conflicts38Survey Adjustments (Least Squares, Error Analysis)39Quality Assurance and Control40Reconciling Deeds with Field Evidence41Technology Limitations in Practice
Module 5: Mapping and Document Preparation
Lesson 8
Monument Preservation
Monument Preservation
Overview
Preserving survey monuments is both a professional obligation and legal requirement. California law mandates notification and preservation efforts when monuments may be disturbed.
Learning Objectives
- Understand monument preservation laws
- Implement proper notification procedures
- Document monument conditions
- Coordinate with County Surveyors
Key Concepts
Legal Requirements
California law requires:
- Filing corner records when corners are set or found
- Notification before disturbing monuments
- Reference monuments when disturbance is unavoidable
- Perpetuation of monuments in construction zones
Notification Procedures
Before disturbing monuments:
- Identify all monuments in the work area
- Notify the County Surveyor
- Document existing conditions
- Establish reference points
- Record perpetuation information
Documentation
Proper monument documentation includes:
- Location and description
- Physical condition
- Relationship to record information
- Reference ties to stable features
- Photographs when appropriate
Coordination with County Surveyor
County Surveyor involvement in:
- Review of corner records
- Monument preservation permits
- Construction project coordination
- Public monument maintenance
Key Terms
- Corner Record: Filed document describing a corner's location and condition
- Reference Monument: Point established to relocate a corner
- Perpetuation: Actions to preserve or restore monument positions
Practice Questions
- When must a Corner Record be filed in California?
- What steps should be taken before construction that may disturb survey monuments?