Every Charlotte neighborhood · Registered & insured · Zero dispatch fees980-404-9876

Charlotte Fence Answers

Reading Polaris GIS for Fences

How to use the county's free GIS map to plan a fence, and what it can't tell you.

Free estimateCall 980-404-9876
Reading Polaris GIS for Fences in Charlotte, NC
Short answer

Polaris is Mecklenburg County's free online property map. It shows parcel outlines over aerial photos, plus layers such as zoning, floodplain and other map data that help you plan a fence. Parcel lines on GIS are approximate and can be off by several feet, so they're a planning tool, not a substitute for a survey.

On this page
  1. What Polaris is good for
  2. What it can’t do
  3. How we use it
  4. Using Polaris for planning
  5. Why lines don’t match
  6. Next steps
  7. Questions

What Polaris is good for

  • Seeing lot shape and approximate dimensions
  • Spotting nearby creeks, floodplain mapping and greenway land
  • Checking zoning district
  • Finding parcel ID and deed and plat references
  • Measuring rough fence footage

What it can’t do

  • Show exact property lines
  • Replace your recorded plat
  • Settle a disagreement with a neighbor

How we use it

Before an estimate we pull up your parcel to check zoning, frontage, streams and floodplain, then verify on site. If the lines look questionable, we recommend a survey.

Related: Find your property line.

Using Polaris for planning

  1. Search your address
  2. Turn on aerial imagery
  3. Add layers like floodplain or zoning
  4. Use the measuring tool for rough footage
  5. Note the parcel ID

Why lines don’t match

GIS lines are compiled from records and can be offset from aerial photos. Trees and shadows also hide features.

Next steps

If your fence will be near the line, get a survey.

Questions Charlotte homeowners ask

Why does the Polaris line run through my neighbor's driveway?

GIS parcel lines are approximate and aerial images can be offset. That’s common and doesn’t mean anyone’s encroaching.

Does Polaris show easements?

Some data is available, but your recorded plat and deed are the authoritative sources for easements.

Reviewed by the 76 Fence Charlotte installation team. Updated November 2, 2026. Charlotte rules change, so confirm permits, CDOT, historic district and HOA requirements before you build. This page is general information, not legal advice.

Keep reading

All of Charlotte Fence Answers →

Get a straight answer for your lot.

We check the line, the rules and the ground, then send a clear written quote. No dispatch fee.

Pick an estimate time980-404-9876