LiDAR Survey

Drone LiDAR surveys for Ontario construction and engineering

Stratus Geomatics provides drone LiDAR surveying for development, construction and earthworks projects across Ontario, including Toronto and the GTA. Start with the decision your survey needs to support: existing-ground mapping, a grading comparison, stockpile quantities or construction progress. We can then scope the coverage, control and outputs around that purpose.

Request a LiDAR survey quote or explore the project examples below.

Terrain models and deliverables

Depending on the agreed scope, outputs can include classified LAS/LAZ point clouds, a ground terrain model, contours, CAD information and orthomosaic imagery. Confirm the required DWG/DXF, TIN/DEM or other exchange format with your designer or receiving software before work starts. A point cloud, a ground model and a model of visible objects serve different purposes; tell us which your workflow needs.

Wooded and vegetated sites

LiDAR can capture ground returns through gaps in vegetation, making it useful where photographs mainly show the canopy. Dense undergrowth, water and areas with limited ground returns still need attention. Vegetation, season, access and the required level of detail affect the survey plan. Where required by the scope, supplementary ground observations can help resolve areas the aerial survey cannot adequately define.

Stockpile volumes and cut-and-fill comparisons

For stockpiles, agree the pile boundaries and base surface used in the calculation. For cut-and-fill, provide the approved comparison surface or drawings, revision and area of interest. Survey dates and surface assumptions belong with the quantity report. Volume is not automatically a weight: any density, bulking or compaction factors need separate agreement.

Control, checks and quote inputs

Send the site address, survey boundary, approximate area, intended use, required deliverables and schedule. Include available survey control, benchmark information, coordinate system, vertical datum and design files. The required accuracy and checking approach should be agreed for the project; an equipment specification alone is not proof of the delivered surface’s accuracy.

Related project evidence

• Chippawa: LiDAR mapping for a 160-acre earthworks site, including the project’s supplied control and check approach.
• Vaughan: LiDAR and GPS topographic work on a construction site with irregular material piles.
• Oakville: LiDAR and CAD surface work for excavation.

Need another part of the workflow? Explore GPS and machine-control data preparation or construction layout.

LiDAR project examples