Geographic Information Systems (GIS) — Public Guide

Overview

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a mapping tool that stores, analyzes, and displays location‑based information. It helps residents, engineers, developers, and city staff answer questions like “What is the zoning here?”, “Where are flood zones?”, and “How will a project relate to nearby properties?”

 

Using our public map (MapGeo) — quick steps

  • Open MapGeo from the City of Decatur’s GIS link on the website.

  • Search an address or parcel ID using the search box to zoom to your site.

  • Turn layers on or off from the layer (themes) list to view zoning, flood zones, parcels, schools, and other data.

  • Use measurement tools to check distances and areas; use identify or info tools to view attribute details for a parcel or feature.

  • Print or save a map image using the map’s built‑in print/share tool if you need a snapshot for an application or meeting.

 

Common uses for citizens and professionals

  • Residents: Check zoning, flood risk, school attendance zones, and nearby public facilities.

  • Property owners and developers: Confirm zoning, setbacks, and parcel boundaries before applying.

  • Engineers and surveyors: Use base layers and parcel data to prepare plats, site plans, and permit submittals.

  • City staff and boards: Review overlays and spatial relationships for planning decisions.

 

Featured map layers

Available layers include: Legal Trucking Routes; Fire stations; Flood zones; Hydrology; Police zones; School sites; Wetlands; ZIP code boundaries; Zoning; Parcel boundaries.

 

Considerations while using GIS data

  • Use GIS as a starting point. Always confirm legal boundaries, deed information, and engineering details with recorded documents, a licensed surveyor, or the Planning Department.

  • Check the date of the data shown on the map; some layers are updated periodically.

  • For official submissions, include sealed plans and certified surveys as required by application checklists - MapGeo snapshots do not replace required documents.

 

Disclaimer and contact

Disclaimer: The City of Decatur provides MapGeo as a public service. While we strive for accuracy, the City makes no warranty or guarantee about the completeness or reliability of the data. Users are responsible for verifying information before relying on it for legal, engineering, or financial decisions.
Questions or data requests: Geographic Information Systems Department - 402 Lee Street NE, Decatur, AL 35601 • (256) 341‑4700 • GISAdmin@decatur-al.gov

Interactive GIS Map (MapGeo)
Interactive Potential Flooding Impact Map