Permanent Survey Marks (PSMs) are major reference marks placed by surveyors to identify property boundaries. PSMs must not be disturbed without approval of the Surveyor-General. Fines of up to $2000 per PSM can be applied if they are:
- disturbed
- damaged
- moved or removed
- destroyed
Damage and destruction commonly occurs when:
- constructing driveways, roads, footpaths and pram ramps
- building fences
- landscaping
- installing underground services.
PSMs must remain accessible. By law, surveyors can break any surface to locate a marker, including driveways, footpaths and landscaped areas.
Email DHUD.SurveyOperations@sa.gov.au before starting any groundwork to locate a PSM.