An overview of 3d cadastre from a physical land parcel and a legal property object perspective

Abstract

The physical land parcel based model of representing, storing and manipulating cadastral data, which includes two-dimensional geometry as well as the rights, restrictions and responsibilities attached to it, has largely been very successful in dealing with the present needs of land administration. The emergence of newer objects and interests on land, like, 3D titles, non parcel-based interests, interests extending beyond the physical boundary of a parcel and use of digital cadastral databases etc. have increased discussions on the need for a legal property object. From a 3D cadastral perspective, it has become necessary to find the right balance between the geometrical representation of the surface 2D parcel and the 3D object which may have different extents and interests as in the case for underground infrastructure. This makes it essential to approach 3D cadastre from both the land parcel as well as the legal property object perspective. This paper explores the various aspects and issues related to the technical, legal and administrative framework for the development and implementation of a 3D cadastre with particular emphasis on Queensland, Australia.