Digital terrain models, witch describes terrain surface in form z=z(x,y) are given mainly as grid models. The data for these models could be captured from topographic maps in any digitising process. In this case the grid cell size is determined through the contour interval and geometric characteristic of the terrain. A method for the optimum grid cell size estimation, witch save a complete as well as non-redundant data capture is presented. The method is based on the stochastic terrain model. The terrain geometric characteristic within this model is the variance of terrain inclination, witch can be estimated using the measured length of contour lines at the different height levels. Results of the grid cell size estimation for several regions of Poland and hints for user are given.

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