How to measure a yard on Google Maps

Measure distances on Google Maps

1. 1
   Open Google Maps on a computer

   Zoom in on the property and switch to the Satellite layer so you can see the lawn edges.
2. 2
   Right-click the starting point

   Choose Measure distance from the menu.
3. 3
   Click to add points

   Click along the edge you're measuring. Google shows the total distance at the bottom of the map.
4. 4
   Multiply for simple shapes

   For a rectangular lawn, measure the length and the width separately and multiply them for square feet.

Example: a back lawn measured at 62 ft by 38 ft is 62 × 38 = 2,356 sq ft. This only works for rectangles; curved lawns need an area tool.

Measure area on Google Earth

1. 1
   Open Google Earth

   Search the address and zoom in so the lawn fills the screen. A top-down view measures best.
2. 2
   Click Measure

   Click points around the edge of the lawn.
3. 3
   Close the shape

   Double-click the first point. Area and perimeter appear in the panel; change the units from the drop-down.
4. 4
   Subtract what isn't lawn

   Measure beds, patios and the driveway inside the lawn the same way and subtract them by hand.

Google notes that its measurements are estimates, aren't a substitute for on-site or survey-grade measurements, and don't account for changes in elevation.

The faster way: a satellite lawn measuring tool

1. 1
   Search the address

   The satellite map flies to the property.
2. 2
   Trace the lawn

   Choose Area and tap around the lawn; tap the first point again to close it. The area shows on the shape as you draw.
3. 3
   Cut out beds and patios

   Draw a cut-out inside the lawn and its area is subtracted automatically.

Which method to use

Landscapers quoting the job can go one step further: SatelliteQuoter turns the measured areas into a priced quote using your own rates.