Spatialdom Insights
How to read bearings and distances on a land title
Each boundary call gives a direction and a length from one point to the next. Read one line at a time before trying to understand the full parcel.
2 min read · Written and reviewed by Spatialdom · Last reviewed: Date not recorded
Read one boundary call
For example, a call from point 1 to point 2 with bearing N 30° E and distance 20 m runs 30 degrees east of north for 20 meters. The following call begins at point 2. The example explains the notation; always use the values and units in your own document.
In a quadrant bearing, the first letter is north or south and the last is east or west. The angle may include degrees, minutes, and seconds. A changed direction letter or a missed minute can send the line in a different direction, so copy the notation exactly.
Distinguish tie information from boundary lines
A tie line connects a lot corner to a reference point. Boundary lines then describe the lot itself. Check where the description says the parcel begins and whether a line is a tie or a boundary; mixing them can produce a convincing but incorrect sketch.
A bearing alone does not identify a coordinate system. To place a parcel on a wider map, confirm the reference point, datum, zone, and approved survey information rather than assuming that the drawing is georeferenced.
Use the sequence as a check
Follow the calls in their stated order and compare the final corner with the starting corner. If the lines do not meet, revisit the source before drawing a conclusion. Ask a licensed geodetic engineer to assess discrepancies that affect a purchase, boundary question, or official submission.
This guide is educational and does not replace title verification, an official survey, or advice from a licensed geodetic engineer.