Drone Mapping

Drone mapping uses aerial imagery and sensors to create accurate maps, models, and measurements of a site. Drones fly autonomously over an area, capturing overlapping images or LiDAR data that is then processed into georeferenced deliverables like orthomosaics, point clouds, and elevation models.

In practice, these terms are used interchangeably by most clients. A drone survey and drone mapping both describe capturing aerial data with a drone to produce measurements, maps, and 3D models of a site. Engineers and surveyors often use "drone survey," while construction and GIS teams often lean toward "drone mapping." We deliver the same outputs regardless of which term you use.

With RTK/PPK positioning and ground control points, we typically achieve 1–3 cm horizontal and vertical accuracy. Accuracy depends on flight parameters, ground control, and site conditions. We discuss your specific accuracy requirements during project planning to ensure the capture method matches your deliverable needs.

For most commercial use cases, including topographic mapping, volumetric measurement, progress monitoring, and site planning, a drone survey is faster, safer, and often more detailed than traditional ground methods. However, legal boundary surveys, property surveys registered with the land registry, and other cadastral work must be performed by a licensed Ontario Land Surveyor (OLS). Holland Productions is not an OLS.

Photogrammetry uses overlapping photos to reconstruct 3D geometry and produces photorealistic textures. LiDAR uses laser pulses to measure distances directly, producing dense point clouds that can penetrate vegetation. We often recommend LiDAR for forested areas or when you need bare-earth terrain data.

We regularly map sites ranging from a few acres to hundreds of hectares. For very large drone survey projects, we can deploy multiple flights over several days. The limiting factors are typically battery life and airspace regulations rather than technical capability.

Standard drone survey deliverables include orthomosaics (GeoTIFF), point clouds (LAS/LAZ), digital elevation models (DSM/DTM), contour lines, and PDF reports. We also provide CAD exports (DXF/DWG), 3D models, and volume calculations depending on project requirements.

Field work for most sites takes a few hours to a full day depending on size and complexity. Processing and delivery typically takes 1–2 business days for standard projects. We can accommodate rush timelines when needed.