Understanding California's New SB 1079: Impact on Corner Records

California Senate Bill 1079 introduces significant changes to corner record filing requirements that every practicing surveyor in the state should understand. ## Key Changes ### Expanded Filing Requirements The bill expands the definition of "survey" that triggers a corner record filing obligation. Previously limited to boundary surveys, the new law includes any survey that disturbs, resets, or references a section corner, quarter corner, or government lot corner. ### Digital Filing County surveyors are now required to accept digital corner record submissions in addition to paper filings. The State Board is developing a standardized digital format expected to be finalized by mid-2026. ### Timeline Changes The filing deadline has been shortened from 90 days to 60 days from the date of survey. ## What This Means for East Bay Surveyors Alameda and Contra Costa counties have been early adopters of digital corner record systems. The county surveyors have indicated that their existing digital portals will be updated to comply with the new state format once finalized. ## Recommended Actions 1. Review your current corner record filing procedures 2. Ensure your field crews document all corner evidence per the new standard 3. Set up calendar reminders for the shortened 60-day filing deadline 4. Watch for the digital format specification from the State Board For questions about how SB 1079 applies to your specific practice, feel free to raise them at the next chapter meeting.