Rectangular Survey System

Definition

The rectangular survey system, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), is a method used in the United States to divide and describe land using a grid-based framework. It utilizes a combination of baselines and meridians to create townships and sections, providing a systematic approach to land measurement and ownership that simplifies the process of land surveying and legal land descriptions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The rectangular survey system was established in the late 18th century to facilitate the orderly settlement and sale of public lands in the United States.
2. Each township within the rectangular survey system is divided into 36 sections, each typically measuring 1 square mile or 640 acres.
3. The system allows for easy identification of land parcels through a grid format, which helps reduce confusion in land ownership.
4. Land descriptions using the rectangular survey system often include terms like 'SW 1/4 of NE 1/4 of Section 12,' indicating specific sections and quarters of land.
5. The use of the rectangular survey system has had a lasting impact on land use planning, zoning, and property taxation in many areas across the United States.

Review Questions

• How does the rectangular survey system simplify land ownership identification compared to other methods?
  • The rectangular survey system simplifies land ownership identification by providing a standardized grid layout that divides land into townships and sections. Each parcel can be easily located using references to baselines and meridians, allowing for precise legal descriptions that reduce confusion. This systematic approach contrasts with metes and bounds systems that rely on natural landmarks and can be more subjective and less consistent.
• What role do baselines and meridians play in the organization of land under the rectangular survey system?
  • Baselines and meridians serve as fundamental reference lines in the rectangular survey system, creating a framework for dividing land into manageable units. Baselines run east-west while meridians run north-south, intersecting at specific points to form townships. This organization allows surveyors to establish accurate locations for parcels of land, ensuring uniformity and consistency in land measurements across different regions.
• Evaluate the impact of the rectangular survey system on modern land use planning and property taxation practices in the United States.
  • The rectangular survey system has significantly influenced modern land use planning and property taxation by providing a clear and standardized method for defining property boundaries. Its grid-based layout facilitates efficient zoning regulations, enabling urban planners to make informed decisions about development and resource allocation. Additionally, property taxes are often calculated based on clear delineations established by this system, leading to more equitable tax assessments. As a result, the rectangular survey system continues to play a crucial role in managing land resources effectively across the nation.

Related terms

Baseline: A baseline is an east-west line used as a reference point in the rectangular survey system to measure north-south distances.

Meridian: A meridian is a north-south line in the rectangular survey system that serves as a reference for measuring east-west distances.

Township: A township is a square unit of land in the rectangular survey system, typically measuring 6 miles by 6 miles, which is further divided into sections.