What defines a tract of land using lines, distances, and bearings?

The definition of a tract of land using lines, distances, and bearings is known as metes and bounds. This method is one of the oldest forms of land description and is commonly used in the United States. It involves describing the perimeter of a property by detailing specific distances and directions between various landmarks or markers.

In this system, "metes" refers to the measurements of the boundary lines, while "bounds" pertains to the physical features that outline the property, such as roads, rivers, or other natural markers. This approach provides a precise and legally recognized way to delineate property boundaries, essential for legal, real estate, and land development purposes.

While land surveys involve the broader process of measuring and mapping land, metes and bounds specifically refers to the method of description itself. Geospatial analysis pertains to the study of the geographical components and data interpretation, and easement planning focuses on the rights to use a portion of land for specific purposes rather than defining the land itself.