metes and bounds

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metes and bounds

A method of describing real property by starting with some universally recognized point, usually a specified corner of a 640-acre section but sometimes a monument. The description then specifies turning in a certain direction—northwest or southeast, for example—and at a certain angle, such as 35 degrees. The description will then specify the distance one should proceed at that direction and angle for one of the property lines, before making a turn. The process continues until the entire parcel is described and one has returned to the beginning point.

Example: Beginning at the Northwest corner of Section 16, Township 19 South, Range 10 West, being the Point of Beginning (POB) thence proceed southerly along said section line for a distance of 100 feet to a point; thence turn 90 degrees 0 minutes west and proceed for a distance of 130 feet to a point; thence turn 90 degrees 0 minutes north and proceed for a distance of 100 feet to a point; thence turn 90 degrees and 9 minutes east and proceed for a distance of 130 feet to the POB, containing 0.229 acres, more or less.

References in periodicals archive ?

Metes and bounds descriptions have generally been met with derision

transactions and features of the land, metes and bounds descriptions are

demarcated by metes and bounds. (14) Because the rectangular system

Although subjected to these criticisms, metes and bounds systems

written cursory descriptions of metes and bounds to preface histories of

articles focused on metes and bounds descriptions or the laws and

(19) Why have metes and bounds systems been ignored?

The Forgotten History of Metes and Bounds

Metes and bounds refers to an ancient system of describing land.

10 by 10: Gunter's chain forms basis of American land measurement

The metes and bounds system uses natural and man-made structures as corner and boundary markers.

Metes and bounds were used for most of the original 13 colonies.

The adoption of the RSLM eliminated the problems associated with the metes and bounds system.

Chapter 3 Rectangular system of land identification

Here he compiles the metes and bounds concept and the US rectangular land survey system for anyone who is or will be in contact with any real estate transaction, be they surveyors, realtors, lawyers dealing with real estate, and even individuals buying a house or property.