AutoCAD Lisp: Label Polylines & Arcs with Bearings and Distances Easily

Instantly Label Bearings and Distances in AutoCAD with a Simple Click

If you’re tired of manually calculating and labeling bearings and distances in AutoCAD, this AutoCAD Lisp routine is the perfect time-saver. With just a few clicks, you can automatically label polylines and arcs with their bearing and distance—no need for tedious manual input or external calculations.

This powerful AutoLISP script is especially useful for:

• Land surveyors

• Civil engineers

• Architects

• CAD designers

• Anyone working with site plans, parcel maps, or utility layouts

🔧 Key Features of the Lisp Routine

• ✅ Click on any polyline or arc, and instantly get labeled bearing and distance

• ✅ Works seamlessly in AutoCAD (Full version, not LT)

• ✅ Customizable text style, size, layer, and alignment

• ✅ Supports multiple labeling styles (inline, offset, leader-based)

• ✅ Works in any drawing unit: metric or imperial

• ✅ Lightweight and easy to load using APPLOAD

🧠 Why Use Lisp for Bearing and Distance Labeling in AutoCAD?

Traditional methods involve using the LIST command, calculating angles, and then manually creating text labels. That’s time-consuming and error-prone.

This Lisp automates the entire process. Simply click any polyline segment or arc, and it will:

• Calculate the true bearing based on the angle of the segment

• Measure the exact distance

• Place the label with customizable precision and alignment

📥 How to Use the Lisp Routine

1. Download the .lsp file (link below or request via contact form)

2. Load the file in AutoCAD using the APPLOAD command

3. Run the routine by typing the custom command (e.g., LBL)

4. Click on a polyline or arc – the label appears instantly!

🛠️ Customization Options

You can modify the Lisp routine to match your CAD standards:

• Change text layer name

• Adjust bearing format (e.g., N 45°30′ E)

• Set text height, rotation, or leader settings

• Choose label placement (above, below, centered)

📌 Use Cases

• Property Boundary Surveys

• Utility Line Mapping

• Subdivision Layouts

• Topographic Survey Plans

• Road Centerline Labeling

📈 Boost Your CAD Productivity

By integrating this Lisp into your workflow, you save hours on every drawing. You’ll produce more accurate, professional-looking drawings, and reduce the risk of human error.