Stamp - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What kind of plans can a landscape architect stamp?
As established by Business and Professions Code (BPC) section 5615, licensed landscape architects are authorized to approve construction plans and documents that relate to "landscape preservation, development and enhancement". Such plans may include the following:
- Master plans for land use and development
- Production of overall site plans
- Landscape grading and drainage plans
- Irrigation plans
- Planting plans
- Construction details
Landscape architects, unless otherwise licensed, are not authorized to practice, or offer to practice, architecture or engineering in any of its various recognized branches. For more information on a past related stamping issue, please see a September 7, 2010 letter from DCA legal counsel regarding local jurisdictions (the City of Torrance, CA) refusing to accept plans prepared by landscape architects (PDF, 8.3M).
- What are the requirements for a landscape architect stamp?
The stamp, as referenced in BPC section 5659, and BPC section 5673, may be purchased from any convenient source and shall be of the design illustrated under California Code of Regulations section 2606.
- Can landscape architects stamp and sign plans electronically?
While BPC section 5659 requires licensees to stamp or seal and sign “all plans, specifications, and other instruments of service,” the Landscape Architects Practice Act (Act) does not prohibit the use of an electronic stamp, seal, or signature. It is, therefore, up to the discretion of local building and/or planning authorities to determine if an electronic stamp, seal, or signature is acceptable.