Mete and bound, also known as metes and bounds, is a traditional method of surveying land boundaries. It refers to a system of describing and defining the boundaries of a piece of land based on physical features rather than grid coordinates. This method was commonly used prior to the development of modern surveying techniques.
In the metes and bounds system, the boundaries of a property are determined by measuring distances between specific landmarks or reference points, known as "metes," and establishing lines, called "bounds," that connect these points. The metes can be natural features such as rivers, trees, or rocks, or man-made structures like fences or roads. Each mete is carefully measured, and the boundaries of the land are described by their relative positions and distances.
The metes and bounds system often relies on descriptive terms to indicate the directions and distances between metes. These directions are usually referenced to cardinal directions (north, south, east, west), and distances are commonly measured in units such as feet, yards, or rods. The process requires careful documentation to accurately record the survey measurements and descriptions.
Today, while metes and bounds is no longer the primary method of land surveying, it still holds significance in legal and historical contexts. Metes and bounds descriptions are often found in old property deeds and legal documents, providing valuable information about the size and boundaries of land tracts. The term "metes and bounds" may also be used metaphorically to express limitations or restrictions in other contexts beyond land surveying.
