Metes-and-Bounds description
Metes and bounds is one of the oldest methods of describing land boundaries in legal documents, particularly common in the eastern United States. The term “metes” refers to specific distances and directions, while “bounds” refers to physical boundaries or monuments like trees, streams, or stone markers. These help in describing land by specifying the perimeter boundaries using:
- Cardinal directions (north, south, east, west)
- Distances (typically in feet or chains historically)
- Fixed points or monuments
- Angular descriptions (degrees, minutes, seconds)
Advantages
- Can describe irregularly shaped parcels
- Provides very precise boundaries
- Works well in areas with varied terrain
- Has historical precedent in legal proceedings
Disadvantages
- Monuments can disappear or move over time
- Complex descriptions can be difficult to interpret
- Requires professional surveying knowledge
- Potential for errors in measurement or transcription
Example of How It Is Used
“Beginning at an iron pin at the intersection of Oak Street and Maple Avenue; thence North 38 degrees 15 minutes East, 237.5 feet to a stone marker; thence South 52 degrees 30 minutes East, 180 feet to an oak tree; thence South 38 degrees 15 minutes West, 237.5 feet to a point on the northern side of Oak Street; thence North 52 degrees 30 minutes West along Oak Street, 180 feet to the point of beginning, containing 0.98 acres, more or less.”
- Point of Beginning (POB): A clearly identifiable starting point
- Directions: Using bearings (degrees from north)
- Distances: Precise measurements between points
- Monuments: Both natural (oak tree) and artificial (iron pin, stone marker)
- Return to POB: The description must “close” by returning to the starting point
In modern practice, metes and bounds descriptions are typically accompanied by surveyor’s maps and GPS coordinates for greater accuracy and clarity. However, they remain legally binding and are still used in property deeds, especially in states that were part of the original 13 colonies where this system predates the rectangular survey system used in western states.