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To build an offset of a linear feature in ArcMap, what is the difference between Copy Parallel and Buffer? In terms of the resulting features and their linear differences from the source linear feature?

I am building an easement of a centerline feature. I want to build a feature that is 25feet either side of my linear feature. Where the centerline is going without direction changes there seems to be no difference. Where the centerline changes direction the differences start to appear.

Thanks.

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Justin, you might want to consider accepting some of the answers to your other questions - "35% accept rate" under your name is likely to deter people from answering further questions. See the FAQ on reputation – Stephen Lead Sep 24 '12 at 23:10

3 Answers

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You can also use the trace tool with an offset. That might work well for creating an easement off of a centerline. The trace tool is one of my favorites to draw with as I'm often drafting based on other existing features. enter image description here

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+1 for the additional option – Mapperz♦ Sep 25 '12 at 13:14
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I guess my question is more along the lines of which tool is the correct tool for finding distances offset from a line. With point of intersections in mind. – Justin 31 mins ago

then I guess, you'll prefer the buffer option

cheers

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buffer will take the original line to the buffered distance.

enter image description here

http://resources.arcgis.com/en/help/main/10.1/index.html#//000800000019000000

copy parallel has Beveled, Mitered, Rounded Options

enter image description here

http://resources.arcgis.com/en/help/main/10.1/index.html#//01m700000028000000

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I guess my question is more along the lines of which tool is the correct tool for finding distances offset from a line. With point of intersections in mind. – Justin Sep 24 '12 at 21:45
then use the buffer route. – Mapperz♦ Sep 25 '12 at 13:13
With the mitered option, at the corner the distance seems to not be correct. It seems to be more than my given value. – Justin Sep 25 '12 at 13:44

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