Surveys and Mapping Division

Ministry of Land and Legal Affairs

The Surveys and Mapping Division is the national authority responsible for providing, storing, and maintaining geographical data, land-related information, and aerial and hydrographic data for the Government, Private Sector, and the General Public. The Surveys and Mapping Division operates under the Ministry of Land and Legal Affairs. Our core mandate is to manage the nation’s spatial data infrastructure, ensuring that high-quality geodetic, cadastral, and topographic information is available to support the development of Trinidad and Tobago.

Our History

The Division’s roots date back to the appointment of the Crown Surveyor, followed by the first Surveyor General in 1922. Over time, the role evolved into the Director of Surveys and Sub-Intendant of Crown Lands.

In 1959, the Public Service re-organization began the process of separating Land and Survey functions. While the post of Commissioner of Lands was legally established in 1980, it wasn’t until 1988—following recommendations from the Ministry of Planning and Mobilization—that the Division was officially restructured into two distinct entities: Surveys and Mapping Division and Commissioner of State Lands.