Public Land Survey System (PLSS)
The PLSS is the federal surveying method established in 1785 to divide public lands. It covers 30 states including Florida, using principal meridians, base lines, townships, sections, and aliquot parts to create unique property descriptions.
System Hierarchy
- Principal meridians/base lines: Reference lines
- Townships: 6×6 mile squares (township × range)
- Sections: 1×1 mile (640 acres), numbered 1-36
- Aliquot parts: Halves, quarters, quarter-quarters
Reading Descriptions
- Read smallest part first, expand outward
- "NW 1/4 of SE 1/4, Section 15, T34S, R17E" = 40 acres
- Each subdivision halves or quarters the previous level
- Creates a unique "address" for every parcel
Limitations
Earth's curvature creates size variations. Original 19th-century survey errors are permanent. Urban development has destroyed many monuments. GPS supplements but does not replace the system.
Related Terms
- Evidence of Title — PLSS in legal descriptions
- Encumbrance — Boundary disputes
- Closing — Description verification
Barnes Walker Title Services
Barnes Walker Title resolves PLSS description issues and boundary disputes in Florida title examinations. Submit a title inquiry for assistance.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC