The post was established on 2 August 1800 with the formation of the Surveyor General's Department by a proclamation of Governor Frederick North at Galle.

Joseph Jonville was appointed as the Colonial Surveyor General, residing principally in Colombo and receiving orders directly from the government.

"[citation needed] The post of Surveyor General was often combined with that of Civil Engineer and Commissioner of Roads.

The department, during the first fifty years, was mainly engaged in the survey of scattered allotments of land for sale to private parties.

The first title plan was issued by the new department on 20 August 1800 surveyed by C. Schneider.