Site levels in SketchUp: open LiDAR contours and spot levels

Files to use: DXF. Written for: DWG/DXF import is in SketchUp Pro (desktop).

Steps

In a new model using a metres template, go to File › Import and choose the DXF (AutoCAD files).
In Options, set the units to metres. Preserve drawing origin keeps the real National Grid position, which is hundreds of kilometres from the origin. For modelling, we suggest leaving it unticked so the site comes in near the origin.
Orbit to check the contours sit at different heights. Hide the label and notes layers (tags).
Select the contour lines and use the Sandbox From Contours tool to make a terrain mesh.

Good to know

Moving the origin means the model is no longer in National Grid coordinates. Note the offset if you'll send it back to someone using CAD.

Coordinates, units and heights

Units are metres. Plan positions are real Ordnance Survey British National Grid coordinates (EPSG:27700), so a point at easting 324630, northing 639730 sits at exactly those coordinates in your drawing.
Heights are metres above Ordnance Datum Newlyn, as in the LiDAR. Each contour line is drawn at its own height, and each spot level is a 3D point with a text label beside it.
The layers are listed in SOURCE_AND_ACCURACY.txt, along with the survey date and the accuracy note. Keep it with the drawing.

Vendor help: SketchUp help: Importing and exporting CAD files. If your version's menus differ, follow the vendor's page.

Try it with a real sample first

Real public LiDAR for a small patch of ground at the edge of Peebles (Scottish Public Sector LiDAR Phase 3, 0.5 m). It's a sample area, not a real plot for sale. Free to download, no account needed.

Scottish Government LiDAR, tested to ±0.14 m typical on open ground (95% within ±0.28 m), shown with the date the survey was flown. Good for feasibility and early design; for setting out and detailed design, commission a measured survey. When you need a surveyor.

Other guides: AutoCAD · Revit · Vectorworks · QGIS · Civil 3D

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