A topographic survey is typically a survey map that shows all visible improvements situated on a particular parcel of land and its contour lines. Contour lines are lines of equal elevation; the steeper the slope of the land, the closer contour lines are drawn to each other. A topographic map is a valuable design tool for architects and engineers to design future improvements in three-dimensions. Often, the cost of a topographic survey saves money by solving issues before they become time-consuming problems during construction.