metes and bounds

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.