The Association of Ontario Land Surveyors (AOLS) was established in 1892. It is a self-governing association, responsible for the licensing and governance of professional land surveyors, in accordance with the Surveyors Act. As with all self-governing professions, the AOLS has a responsibility to ensure that the public interest is paramount. Section 2(2) of the Surveyors Act states:

"The principal object of the Association is to regulate the practice of professional land surveying and to govern its members and holders of certificates of authorization in accordance with this Act, the regulations and the by-laws in order that the public interest may be served and protected."