A topographic survey is described by The Society of Land Surveyors of Iowa as “a survey to determine the physical features of the land and man made improvements thereon.” BEI topographical surveys include obtaining key locations and elevations of all pertinent features (existing buildings, paving, paving joints, streets, parking lots, curb lines, sidewalks, surfacing, stairs, fences, trees, field located public utilities, and other pertinent features), showing elevation contours at 1-foot intervals, and other pertinent information necessary to complete a design of the improvements.