An encoder is configured to compress point cloud geometry information using an octree geometric compression technique that utilizes node groups. Nodes within a node group are scanned according to a breadth first scan order. Sequential node groups to evaluate may be selected according to a breadth first scan order or a depth first scan order based on whether or not the breadth first scan order or the depth first scan order is indicated in a flag in a preceding node group evaluated. In some embodiments, evaluation orders for node groups may be implicit without being signaled via flags. A decoder is configured to reconstruct a point cloud based on a bit stream encoded by the encoder.