Who this guide is for
- Homeowners encountering a site plan for the first time
- People planning an extension, outbuilding or new build
- Anyone wanting to understand project documents
- Those preparing to work with an architect or surveyor
What a site plan shows
A site plan presents the property from above: the outline of the building, the plot boundaries, and features such as driveways, paths, gardens, trees and sometimes drainage and services. It places the building in its wider context.
Think of it as the bird's-eye view of your whole property, rather than a look inside any single room.
- The building footprint
- Plot boundaries
- Driveways, paths and gardens
- Sometimes trees, drainage and services
How it differs from a floor plan
A floor plan shows the layout of rooms inside a building, while a site plan shows the building within its plot. The two complement each other: one describes the inside, the other the outside context.
Knowing which document you are looking at avoids confusion when reviewing a project's drawings.
Why a site plan matters
Site plans are central whenever work affects the building's position or the land around it, such as extensions, outbuildings, driveways or boundary-related questions. They help everyone understand how a proposal sits on the plot.
They are also commonly required documents in planning and permit processes, though requirements vary by location and project.
- Extensions and additions
- Outbuildings and structures
- Driveways and access
- Boundary and setback questions
Who prepares a site plan
Site plans are typically prepared by architects, designers or surveyors who can represent the property accurately and to the standard a project requires. An accurate base, often from a survey, underpins a reliable plan.
If you need a site plan, a qualified professional can advise on what is required for your specific project and location.
Understanding a site plan checklist
- 1Recognise it as a top-down view of the plot
- 2Identify the building footprint
- 3Note the plot boundaries
- 4Spot features like paths and driveways
- 5Distinguish it from a floor plan
- 6Understand when a site plan is needed
- 7Know it may be required for permits
- 8Engage a professional to prepare one
Common mistakes to avoid
- Confusing a site plan with a floor plan
- Assuming a sketch is an accurate site plan
- Overlooking boundaries and setbacks
- Ignoring features like trees and drainage
- Assuming permit requirements are universal
- Preparing a formal plan without professional help
When to involve a professional
- Site plans should be prepared by qualified professionals
- Planning and permit requirements vary by location and project
- An accurate survey base underpins a reliable plan
- This is educational content, not a permit or code statement
- Costs and requirements vary by project and location
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
What is a site plan?
It is a drawing showing your property from above, including the building's footprint and how it sits within the plot boundaries, along with features like driveways, paths and gardens. It places the building in its wider context.
How is a site plan different from a floor plan?
A floor plan shows the layout of rooms inside a building, while a site plan shows the building within its plot. They complement each other, one describing the inside and the other the outside context.
When do I need a site plan?
Whenever work affects the building's position or the land around it, such as extensions, outbuildings, driveways or boundary questions. Site plans are also commonly required in planning and permit processes, though requirements vary by location.
Who prepares a site plan?
Typically architects, designers or surveyors who can represent the property accurately to the standard a project requires, often working from a survey base. A qualified professional can advise on what your project and location need.
Keep reading