Metes and bounds is a method of land surveying and description that has been used for centuries to define the boundaries of land plots. The term "metes" refers to the physical measurements of the land, while "bounds" refers to the boundary markers or landmarks that are used to define the limits of the plot.
The metes and bounds system is based on the concept of a "starting point," which is a fixed point on the land that serves as the reference point for all subsequent measurements. From this starting point, the surveyor will take a series of linear measurements, or "metes," in a specific direction, using a tool such as a surveyor's chain or tape measure. These measurements are then recorded in a written description of the land, along with the direction and orientation of each line.
The bounds of the land are then established using natural or artificial landmarks, such as trees, rivers, or stone walls, which serve as physical markers for the boundaries of the plot. These landmarks are described in the written description of the land, along with their relative position to the metes.
The metes and bounds system is still used in some parts of the United States, particularly in rural areas where land plots have not been divided into a regular grid pattern. It can be a useful way to precisely define the boundaries of a piece of land, but it can also be more time-consuming and complex than other systems of land surveying and description.
One advantage of the metes and bounds system is that it allows for the creation of irregularly shaped land plots, which may be more suitable for certain purposes. However, it can also be more difficult to visualize the boundaries of a piece of land using the metes and bounds system, as the written description may not always accurately reflect the physical layout of the land.
Overall, the metes and bounds system has played an important role in the history of land surveying and continues to be used in certain parts of the United States. It provides a precise and detailed method for defining the boundaries of a piece of land, but it also has its limitations and can be more complex than other systems.
Metes, Bounds & Meanders
Surveying this way may also be restricted by natural obstacles. From this point, or from a designated point around the monument, a surveyor will plot a course. This system of describing direction was, by its very nature, imprecise and, luckily, was also rarely used. In cases where landmarks have disappeared or changed, municipalities and courts may step in to determine the exact boundaries and the intentions of the involved parties. Beginning at a white oak in Michael King's line. Typically 20 to 30 credits are required to complete a project. In order for deeds to be legally viable, they must meet certain criteria.
Metes and bounds description Definition
If you wish to setup an account, click If already have an account, click Or, you can click "Login" on the top right hand corner of any webpage, sign in, and then click the "PLOT" button on the black menu bar. Metes and Bounds Survey The following is an actual example of a metes and bounds survey that was recorded in Superior Township, Washtenaw County, Michigan. The Forgotten History of Metes and Bounds. In these cases, the reliability of the monument or starting point of the course will be given precedent over the course itself. The history of metes and bounds use continues today in those states that were originally part of the Thirteen Colonies — or before 1785 — in areas where land was being allocated, such as Maine, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Vermont.
Understanding the Role of Metes and Bounds in Your Deed
As these features move, change and disappear over time, when it comes time to re-establish the corners along the line of these boundaries for sale, subdivision, or building construction it can become difficult, even impossible, to determine the original location of the corner. Pencil and paper will work too - just takes longer. In some areas where land was deeded before 1593, the lengths given predate the changes to the length of the furlong and landmarks such as the large oak tree which could disappear; or be confused with a different tree that had grown later. Lesson Summary All right, let's take a moment or two to review what we've learned. If your deed description uses poles, rods, or perches, then divide each distance by 4. The legal system seeks to preserve the original intent of the survey lines. Fischer 1960 6378155 6356773.
Metes and Bounds legal definition of Metes and Bounds
This adequate description could be provided through sections and townships, recorded lot numbers or what are called metes and bounds. You will probably want to have a desktop computer handy to lookup the instructions. This monument could be something like a tree, or even a marking placed by a boundary surveyor. Although metes and bounds are a commonly used and accepted form of boundary survey in Guadalupe County, TX, there are some errors and inconsistencies that can arise with this system. At the time the description is compiled, it may have been marked on the ground with permanent monuments placed where there were no suitable natural monuments. The central angle is the angle swept. After six years of aircrew service in the Air Force, he earned his MBA from the University of Phoenix following a BS from the University of Maryland.
