The authors describe three recent experiences of epidemiological surveys of zoonotic diseases in Brazil. The role of spatial data acquisition and analysis has been reinforced, considering the intrinsic complexity of environmental and social factors affecting transmission. Health surveillance in Brazil is undergoing a decentralisation process, in accordance with which different responsibilities are attributed to each health institution, from federal level to county health secretaries, including local non-governmental organisations. The availability of data, as well as the skilled use of spatial analysis tools, contributed in this process, allowing rapid and low cost assessments of environmental risks.