How Accurate Are OnX Property Lines? Decoding the Digital Divide

OnX Maps, a popular tool for outdoor enthusiasts and land managers, provides a readily accessible layer of property lines overlaid on satellite imagery. But the crucial question remains: How accurate are OnX property lines? The short answer is: it varies significantly and should never be considered a substitute for a professional survey. While OnX strives for accuracy, their data is compiled from a patchwork of public and private sources, each with its own inherent limitations. Relying solely on OnX for definitive boundary delineation can lead to serious legal and practical problems.

Understanding the Sources of OnX Data

The accuracy of OnX property lines is intimately tied to the source of the data used to create them. OnX primarily draws information from county and state government records, specifically tax assessor maps and deeds. These records are then digitized and georeferenced to create the overlay seen in the OnX app.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ungainly: Data Quality Across Jurisdictions

Here’s where the variability comes in. The quality and accuracy of government records differ greatly depending on the jurisdiction.

• The Good: Some counties and states maintain high-quality GIS databases with regularly updated property lines based on professionally surveyed records. In these areas, OnX property lines can be quite accurate, sometimes within a few feet.
• The Bad: In other areas, the available records are outdated, incomplete, or simply inaccurate. Many rural counties, for example, have historically relied on less precise methods of surveying and record-keeping. This can result in OnX property lines that are off by several feet, or even dozens of feet in extreme cases. Think of old hand-drawn maps that have been scanned.
• The Ungainly: The process of digitizing and georeferencing these diverse records introduces another layer of potential error. Even with sophisticated software, aligning disparate data sources to create a seamless map can be challenging. Discrepancies can arise due to distortions in old maps, errors in data entry, and limitations in the georeferencing process itself.

The Crucial Caveat: Not a Substitute for a Survey

It’s absolutely critical to understand that OnX property lines are not a substitute for a professional land survey. A registered land surveyor uses precise instruments and established legal principles to determine property boundaries. Their work is legally binding and provides the definitive answer to where a property line actually lies. OnX is an excellent tool for general orientation and preliminary research, but it should never be used as the sole basis for making decisions about property boundaries, building locations, or fence placements.

Potential Pitfalls of Relying Solely on OnX

Depending exclusively on OnX for boundary determination can lead to a host of problems.

Encroachments and Disputes

The most obvious risk is inadvertently encroaching on a neighbor’s property. Building a fence, shed, or even a garden across a boundary line can lead to costly legal disputes and strained relationships.

Building Setbacks and Zoning Regulations

Many jurisdictions have strict rules about how far buildings must be set back from property lines. Using inaccurate OnX data can lead to violations of these regulations, resulting in fines or even the need to move a structure.

Timber Harvesting and Resource Management

If you own timberland or other natural resources, inaccurate property lines can lead to unintentional trespassing and unauthorized harvesting. This can have serious legal and financial consequences.

Issues With Land Sales

Relying on OnX data when selling property can also cause problems. A prospective buyer might discover discrepancies between the OnX map and the actual property boundaries, leading to delays, renegotiations, or even the termination of the sale.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about OnX property lines and their accuracy:

1. Can I use OnX property lines in court to prove my boundary?

No. OnX data is generally not admissible as evidence in court to establish property boundaries. Courts rely on professionally conducted land surveys and legally recorded deeds.

2. How often does OnX update its property line data?

The update frequency varies depending on the jurisdiction and the availability of new data. OnX states that they update their data periodically, but it’s essential to check the source information within the app to determine the last update date for a specific area.

3. How can I check the accuracy of OnX property lines in my area?

The best way is to compare OnX data to official county records or a recent survey plat of your property. If you suspect discrepancies, consult with a licensed land surveyor.

4. Does OnX have a disclaimer about the accuracy of its property lines?

Yes. OnX explicitly states in its terms of service that its property line data is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for a professional survey.

5. What is the best way to determine my exact property boundaries?

Hire a licensed land surveyor to conduct a boundary survey. They will research your property’s deed, locate existing monuments, and accurately delineate the property lines.

6. What are property corners (monuments) and why are they important?

Property corners are physical markers (iron pipes, concrete monuments, etc.) placed at the intersection of property lines. Surveyors use these monuments as reference points to establish boundary lines. Their presence and condition are crucial for accurate boundary determination.

7. My neighbor and I disagree on where the property line is. What should we do?

First, try to communicate with your neighbor and review your respective deeds. If you cannot reach an agreement, consider hiring a surveyor to conduct a boundary survey and mediate the dispute.

8. Does OnX data include information about easements?

OnX may show some easements, but it’s not always comprehensive. It’s essential to research official county records to determine the existence and scope of any easements affecting your property.

9. Can I rely on OnX for locating underground utilities?

No. OnX data is not intended for locating underground utilities. Always contact your local “Call Before You Dig” service (811 in the United States) before excavating.

10. Are there any government resources available to help me understand property boundaries?

Yes. County recorders’ offices and GIS departments are valuable resources for accessing deeds, plats, and other property information.

11. Is it possible to improve the accuracy of OnX property lines?

Users can report discrepancies to OnX, which may prompt them to review and update their data. However, the ultimate accuracy depends on the underlying source data.

12. What are the legal implications of building on or using someone else’s property?

Building on or using someone else’s property without permission is considered trespassing and could lead to legal action, including damages for the value of the land used and the cost of removing any structures.

Conclusion: Use OnX Wisely

OnX Maps is a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts and land managers. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations of its property line data. While it can provide a general overview of property boundaries, it should never be used as a substitute for a professional land survey. By understanding the sources of OnX data and the potential pitfalls of relying solely on it, you can use this tool wisely and avoid costly mistakes. Always remember the golden rule of property boundaries: when in doubt, survey it out!