How is Land Identified?

Land is identified through various methods that detail its location, boundaries, and legal descriptions. Here are the primary ways to identify it:

1. Legal Description

   • Metes and Bounds: This system describes the boundaries of a parcel using measurements and directions from a starting point. It often references natural landmarks, roads, or neighboring properties.
   • Rectangular Survey System (Public Land Survey System): Used mainly in the U.S., this method divides land into a grid with principal meridians and baselines, forming townships and sections.
   • Lot and Block Survey System: Common in urban areas, this method refers to a specific lot within a recorded subdivision, shown on a plat map filed with the local government.

2. Parcel Number (APN or PID)

   • Each parcel of land receives a unique identifier from the local tax assessor’s office. This number tracks property ownership, taxes, and place use in public records.

3. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

   • Local governments and real estate professionals use digital mapping technology to create detailed visual representations of land parcels. These maps include boundaries, topography, and zoning.

4. Deed

   • A deed is a legal document that describes the property in detail. It includes the location, dimensions, and any easements or restrictions. The county or local jurisdiction records it.

5. Street Address

   • Street addresses identify land in urban and suburban settings. They provide a general location but often need a legal description for precise identification.

6. GPS Coordinates

   • Latitude and longitude coordinates pinpoint the exact location of lands. This method is particularly useful for large, rural, or remote parcels.

7. Title Information

   • Title companies provide reports that include the legal description, ownership history, and any encumbrances or liens on the property. This information confirms the identity and status of the land.

In summary, lands is identified through legal descriptions like ‘metes and bounds,’ parcel numbers from local tax offices, and digital mapping systems like GIS. Deeds give detailed property information, while street addresses and GPS coordinates offer general location details. These methods ensure accurate identification and legal recognition of land.

These methods ensure that each piece of land can be accurately located, described, and legally recognized.