Top Mistakes to Avoid in Trakhees Demarcation Applications

Errors in demarcation applications under Trakhees authority can significantly delay construction timelines, invite regulatory penalties, or even lead to project rejections. Trakhees, under the Department of Planning and Development of Dubai Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, enforces stringent regulations for development activities in areas like JAFZA, Dubai Maritime City, and Palm Jumeirah. Given the critical nature of these zones, every demarcation application must be technically accurate, well-documented, and aligned with approved planning boundaries. Any mismatch between the submitted drawings, on-ground data, and Trakhees specifications can have costly consequences.

Demarcation involves precise mapping of plot boundaries, identification of easements, setback distances, and coordination of infrastructure overlays. The integration of AS Built site survey agencies and underground survey agency services is often essential to meet the requirements for approvals. However, many stakeholders, particularly new developers and consultants, underestimate the complexity involved, leading to preventable mistakes.

This article highlights the most common and impactful mistakes to avoid when submitting Trakhees demarcation applications, and how to do it right the first time.

1. Inaccurate or Outdated Base Survey Data

Submitting outdated or inaccurate topographic survey data is one of the primary reasons for rejection. Trakhees requires updated geospatial data that reflects the current site conditions. If previous excavations, installations, or re-zonings have occurred, relying on legacy data is risky. Using AS Built site survey agencies helps provide current and accurate data, reducing the chance of boundary disputes or regulatory mismatches.

Tip: Always request a new topographic survey or confirm that the existing one is less than six months old and reflects recent updates in the built environment.

2. Misalignment with Trakhees GIS & Planning Regulations

Many submissions are rejected due to discrepancies between site plans and Trakhees GIS data layers. Trakhees operates on a centralized GIS platform where plot limits, easements, utility corridors, and zoning classifications are digitally recorded. If your demarcation drawing does not align with this digital record, it will not be approved.

Common Issue: Failing to account for updated easement requirements or overlapping utility lines that need underground surveying.
Best Practice: Collaborate with an underground survey agency that can detect subsurface infrastructure and validate your proposed layout against Trakhees’ GIS coordinates.

3. Submitting Incomplete Application Documents

Trakhees online registration through its e-permit portal has made submission easier, but this convenience often leads applicants to rush through the process. Incomplete documentation, like missing NOCs, outdated engineering licenses, or incorrect plot details, can delay approval by several weeks.

Important Reminder: Trakhees online services in Dubai are designed for efficient processing, but only when all documentation is correct and complete. Double-check everything before submission.

4. Improper Use of Coordinate Systems

Dubai’s local coordinate system (UTM Zone 40N) must be adhered to when submitting survey files to Trakhees. Misuse of global coordinates (e.g., WGS84) or using incorrect units (feet instead of meters) leads to inaccurate drawings, which can result in demarcation rejection.

This technical oversight is common among less-experienced survey teams. It’s critical to partner with agencies familiar with Trakhees Services in UAE to ensure consistency with the authority’s geodetic standards.

5. Neglecting Underground Infrastructure in Demarcation Plans

Developers often submit surface-level demarcation plans without mapping underground services such as electrical ducts, drainage, and telecom lines. Trakhees regulations require all these services to be identified clearly, especially in high-density industrial and commercial zones.

Failing to engage an underground survey agency not only delays approvals but can lead to post-approval issues like damaging underground cables during excavation.

Avoid This: Conduct a GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) scan before finalizing demarcation drawings. This will help meet compliance and eliminate future liabilities.

Why Choose Lyca Survey for Trakhees Demarcation Services

At Lyca Survey, we specialize in Trakhees demarcation applications, topographical surveys, AS Built site survey documentation, and underground utility detection using GPR and electromagnetic induction technologies. We’re not just surveyors, we’re your strategic partners in project compliance and on-time approvals.

Over the past year alone, we’ve successfully supported 120+ demarcation applications in Trakhees zones, with 98% approval rates on the first submission. Our team brings deep expertise in local regulations, having worked extensively with Trakhees online services in Dubai and across multiple Free Zone projects.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Expertise in Trakhees GIS, zoning, and planning standards.
• Real-time underground utility scanning using advanced sensors.
• End-to-end documentation support, from trakhees online registration to approval.
• Fast turnaround: Most site surveys completed within 48 hours.
• In-house data verification ensures zero mismatches with Trakhees records.

We also understand the pain points developers face in coordinating with multiple agencies. That’s why our clients value the comprehensive scope we offer, demarcation, AS Built site surveys, and underground inspection under one roof, with full compliance to Trakhees Services in UAE.

By choosing us, you avoid costly delays, minimize rework, and accelerate your project lifecycle.

Contact Us

Need help with your Trakhees demarcation application? Our team is here to assist you from the first step to final approval. Contact Lyca Survey today to schedule a consultation or site visit.