CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What does 'bounds' refer to in metes and bounds surveying?

1. Measures of boundary limits

2. Physical features that define the land

3. Legal restrictions on property use

4. Points of interest on the land

The correct answer is: Physical features that define the land

In metes and bounds surveying, the term 'bounds' specifically refers to the physical features that define the boundaries of a parcel of land. This method of land description relies on identifiable landmarks, such as trees, rivers, roads, or certain monuments, which provide tangible references for determining the edges of the property. Metes and bounds descriptions typically start at a known point of beginning and follow the perimeter of the tract using both linear measurements (metes) and descriptive landmarks (bounds). This approach effectively creates a visual and physical representation of the property's boundaries based on the natural or artificial features in the landscape. Understanding this concept is essential for land surveyors as it's integral to accurately defining property lines and ensuring that land is surveyed and described in a manner that is legally acceptable and understandable for ownership and development purposes.