In many states this is a form of surveying (or engineering) which is regulated by the state BOR. PA says it's an Engineering Land Survey
[INDENT](j) ÛÏEngineering Land SurveysÛ means surveys for:...
(ii) the determination of the configuration or contour of the earthÛªs surface, or the position of fixed objects thereon or
related thereto by means of measuring lines and angles and applying the principles of mathematics, photogrammetry
or other measurement methods;[/INDENT]
It looks like an Engineer or a Surveyor can provide mapping in PA - but it's gotta be overseen by a licensed individual.
If it falls under surveying or engineering in your state then talk to these folks. Someone from your state board should attend a users group meeting or start talking to them one on one. Most simply don't have a clue that it's a regulated activity.
When you talk to folks who are offering to provide mapping (or are actually doing it) don't take a "You can't do that" approach.
Take the approach "You can do that as soon as you are in compliance with the law. Here's how you do that..."
It will almost always be easier for them to get in compliance by teaming up with a licensed individual - maybe that's you!
If they don't seem interested in hearing that then you need to submit a complaint to the BOR if it falls under your state's definition.
Also - if it's mapping is covered under the state definition and they aren't licensed then they are operating outside the law - their liability insurance won't cover them in an accident - insurance requires the insured to be operating legally. That's not a big deal for someone with nothing to lose but if they've got anything they'll want their insurance to protect them.
