(1) Software and scale compatibility. The commission uses geographic information system (GIS) software to track certificated authorities. When required by this chapter to file a map, a company must file that map in one of the methods described in (a) and (b) of this section.

(a) Electronic maps. A company may file an electronic map that is compatible with the commission's hardware and software. Before filing its map electronically, a company must contact the commission to determine whether its mapping software is compatible with that used by the commission.

(b) Paper maps. A company may file a paper map using United States Geological Survey (USGS) maps at a scale of 1:250,000 to show certificate boundaries. The commission may require maps at a scale of 1:24,000 to clearly resolve any inconsistencies. USGS maps are available through the Washington state department of natural resources and various private vendors.

(2) Map detail. Any map submitted to the commission must:

(a) Clearly show townships, ranges, streets, county lines, and any other feature described in the certificate;

(b) Be clearly labeled to identify the features described in the certificate;

(c) Have a north arrow;

(d) Have a map legend briefly describing the features on the map;

(e) Have a scale bar showing the distance on the map equal to a defined number of feet, miles or other unit; and

(f) Have a title box that includes the company's name as shown on the company's certificate, the company's registered trade name, the identification number of the company tariff to which the map applies, and a contact name and phone number.