If youre looking at real estate and are considering purchasing a home or piece of land, the plat map will be essential for you. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. Reading a plat map is a straightforward process if you know what youre looking for. First, learn what the many small numbers on a plat map mean. If youre buying or selling a home, you need to peruse the plat map. Tips for formatting your coordinates. Latitude and longitude are measurements of location on the globe. Arrows. Views - Ticor usually provides a 'Close -up' view of the lot, along with a larger view. If youre creating your own home, you might also want to use this map to determine which direction you should build the home. Access the online map server. A 1:24000 scale, for example, means one inch on the map equals 24,000 inches of real-world terrain. Please do not submit your actual street address, just a city, town or regional location. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Depending on the scale of your map, the graticules may mark fractions of degrees rather than whole degrees. A link is exactly 66100 of a foot, or exactly 7.92 inches. in Texas and New Mexico. Keeping in mind a few easy conversions between seconds and decimal minutes will help when working with maps that use degrees, minutes and seconds. Once youve accessed the most recent plat map of your property, get the most out of reading it with a few additional tips. The scale of your plat map will be in the maps legend. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. A metes and bounds measurement might use monuments, angles, or structures to describe a property instead of feet. . In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. Whether youre a homeowner or prospective buyer, these maps can be used to your benefit. You can use the search bar to find a general location or use the map view to locate it manually. This is a wonderful quick tutorial and fun to do for, "I had a basic understanding of longitude/latitude, but I didn't know what the min/sec indicated. Last Updated: February 15, 2023 If your longitude line falls about 2/10 to the left of the 12014E line, then the longitude is roughly 1201412E. For example, N 38 03' 09" E would translate as 38 degrees, 3 minutes, 9 seconds from the north to the east. The small numbers along the bottom of the parcel is the width, and the number along the right side of the parcel is the depth. So for example: N60E = 30 degrees [30 = 90 - 60] N10W = 100 degrees [100 = 90 + 10] S60W = 210 degrees [210 = 360 -(90+60)] S80E = 350 degrees (or -10 degrees) [350 = 80 - 90] Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Not just anyone can come up with a plat map. Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. The boundary lines, or "legs," are often denoted in feet and listed directly below or after the bearing. The correction for that may be a few degrees and depends on your location. Write down the vertical coordinate, which is latitude, and the horizontal coordinate, which is longitude. Each lot of land thats located in the subdivision will have a house number thats assigned to it along with a parcel number. As a newbie (and non-surveyor), I come to this group asking some very basic questions in hopes of learning more about your trade and how to read a basic plat map. If your property is currently listed for sale this is not a solicitation. Once youve accessed the most recent plat map of your property, get the most out of reading it with a few additional tips. Latitude and longitude are measured in degrees rather than absolute units of measurement (such as miles or kilometers) because the Earth is spherical. Fill the address field and click on "Get GPS Coordinates" to display its latitude and longitude. The map will show the size of the land, any nearby streets, boundary locations, easements on the land, and possible flood zones. NW: Subtract angle from 360. Many Minnesota counties keep records in digital (computer-readable) format while others keep them as paper records. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Next, find the survey legend. Plat maps list the house number for each parcel, along with the shape of the parcel, or the parcel boundary. This will orient you to the property's actual location on the ground. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. If youre a homeowner, this map can be useful if ever you have a dispute with your neighbor about the borders of your land. While online maps make it easy to determine latitude and longitude with the click of a button, sometimes it is helpful to know how to do it on paper. There's also pictures and examples of the coordinates; also very helpful. A site plan package can include: information relative to roads, lighting, landscaping, natural features, access, soil erosion control, and stormwater management. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. Thank you for this article! ", How to Read Latitude and Longitude on a Map, https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/latitude/, http://www.coastalnavigation.com/samples/sec_1/1_pages/1_2.htm, https://admin.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/longitude/, https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/sites/www.nrcan.gc.ca/files/earthsciences/pdf/topo101/pdf/mapping_basics_e.pdf, lire la latitude et la longitude sur une carte, Leggere la Latitudine e la Longitudine su una Mappa, Lengte en breedtegraad aflezen van een kaart. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. The unit is based on Gunter's chain, a metal chain 66 feet long with 100 links, that was formerly used in land surveying. One can gather the following information from a plat map: Learning how to read a plat map can help you during tasks such as buying or selling real estate, building additions to your property, taking on renovation projects, investing in solar power, and protecting your rights as a landowner. Site created and maintained by CourthouseDirect.com, Inc. shows a piece of land, drawn to scale, with details such as nearby properties, boundaries, land size, flood zones, the surrounding neighborhood, easements, and monuments. Coordinates for locations are provided using two sets of numbers on a simple Cartesian coordinate system. When you purchase a home, one of the documents you receive is typically a plat map; reading it can help you make the most out of your investment. As a landowner, the type of plat map you receive can vary according to the history of the parcel of land. How to Read a Plat or Survey - YouTube 0:00 / 4:42 How to Read a Plat or Survey North Atlanta Homes & Land by ATLhickman 524 subscribers Subscribe 764 Share Save 243K views 6 years ago This. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The illustration is basically a map of the area surveyed. The fastest way to look up state owned land records is by using the "find" tool. The amp must ensure that it meets the requirements detailed in the municipal subdivision regulations. Subdivision plats must be completed by a licensed surveyor and meet the survey plat recording requirements of 27 V.S.A. Step 4. First, find out if you canfind your plat map online. Review the documents so that to avoid any problems in the future. The arrows shown on the plan indicate that a measurement next to that arrow relates to the space between the occupation (fence, shed etc.) We can help you find approximate property lines and corners and by producing the most accurate GPS coordinates possible without hiring a surveyor. As long as you know what youre looking at, a plat map isnt too difficult to read. The report will also indicate if these improvements meet the code standards set up by the local building department. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. The way to calculate a rectangular area is by measuring the length and width of your area then multiplying those two numbers together to get the area in feet squared. ". The old (now changed) parcel number. "I found the bearing explanation very helpful. The lines that separate each piece of land will show you the dimensions of the property. The antimeridian is at 180 either east or west from the prime meridian. For an actual compass bearing, note that a compass points at the north magnetic pole, not the true north pole (earth axis). Part 1 Understanding Latitude and Longitude 1 We have a sample for you here, where you can see that 'Access' is shown on map, by. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. A plat map displays how a large area of land is effectively separated into lots. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. The coordinates are along the edges of the map. Although you'll have to schlep all the way to your county courthouse to get your hands on the physical plat map, you might be able to find a copy online. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Megaera Lorenz, PhD. Use a map with latitude and longitude lines and pinpoint the location you're trying to find coordinates for. The reflections are recorded as millions of individual points, collectively called a "point cloud," that represent the 3D positions of objects on the surface including buildings, vegetation, and the ground. The coordinates are displayed in the left column or directly on the interactive gps map. Review the entire written report and discuss any questions, discrepancies, or concerns with the surveyor immediately. You should also see private and shared driveways, as well as any roads with easements. Site Map. When you purchase a home in Texas and most other states, youll receive an official plat map, complete with several numbers and fine print. If you're using the map view, you'll need to long-touch and select an unmarked location until a red pin appears. Any easements that may exist on the property. During GIS-based research consultations, I often help people understand the importance of coordinate reference systems (or spatial reference systems if you prefer, aka "map projections"). To find the GPS coordinates of an address or a place, simply use our latitude and longitude finder. Step 2. If this happens, the only way for you to know about the easement before purchase is by taking a look at the plat map. If you've got a smartphone, you can go to Google Maps and find your exact coordinates. The information on a plat map serves as a legal description of the specific parcel of land, which can be helpful in a variety of situations. 2. This includes Run Sheets, Property Reports and Mineral Ownership Reports. Then, find the latitude and longitude markers that run along the top and side of the map. The addresses must match exactly as written on the homeowner's deed. In-depth research of ownership, minerals, liens and easements in Texas and New Mexico. To find GPS coordinates, open the Google Maps app on your smartphone or tablet. Last Updated: September 19, 2022 Parcel boundaries shown on the maps and the GIS data sets are approximate. Then, draw a vertical line from your location to the north or south edge of the map. Be sure to note the scale near the legend so you have an accurate picture of how distances are measured on the survey. The scale will be the ratio between the distance on the map and the distance of the actual property. When you want to build a solar power array for your home, knowing the orientation of the land can be useful for you. Move the pointer to a location on the map and view the coordinates in the Location window. While a plat map can give you a wealth of information about your property, it might not be hyper-accurate or the latest version of events on your land. SW: Add angle to 180. Including gated and guarded communities, equestrian ranches, acreage and estate homes serving various regions around Southern California. All you have to do is provide your location below and submit. This article has been viewed 250,673 times. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Parcel boundary data, map viewers and ownership records are maintained at the county level, usually by the recorder's, assessor's or land surveyor's offices. Check out the examples page to see some of the property line maps we have produced to help our clients. It may be worth memorizing the following numbers. Locate the evenly-spaced horizontal (latitude) and vertical (longitude) lines on a map. This tool is all about GPS coordinates conversion.As soon as you modify one end of the data (either the decimal or sexagesimal degrees coordinates), the other end is simultaneously updated by the coordinates converter, as well as the position on the map.. A few of the key benefits of engaging a surveyor include: experience in identifying and eliminating errors in old surveys, ability to resolve unclear boundaries and right of ways, legal standing to have the revised survey part of the deed, http://www.gis.state.ga.us/Clearinghouse/FAQ/UTM_Map/utm_map.html, http://platplotter.appspot.com/lib/pp_about.html, http://platplotter.appspot.com/lib/pp_help.html, (You must log in or sign up to reply here. If you know how to read latitude and longitude on a map, you can determine the geographic coordinates of any spot on the map. A plat of subdivision, for example, might have information about the parcel as well as the division of land. A plat map is a type of map thats used to show the divisions of a parcel of land. You miss figure the declination from the magnetic bearing shown on the plat by 2 degrees. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. If you are willing to put the time and effort into learning what the information on your plat means, where it comes from. County assessor. Use periods to indicate decimals. You can use a plat map for numerous situations. To read the coordinates of any location, start with the number of degrees on the latitude line, and clarify whether it is in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere. On your computer, open Google Maps . Water structures such as a lake or stream, Shared fencing, driveways or sidewalks with a neighboring property, Existing property points of entry or egress, Buildings, repairs, modifications or structural improvements on the property, Locations of utilities, including water pipes and other plumbing, electrical, cable and/or telephone lines, gas lines, and utility poles. A Basic Township and Range Grid. This document is intended to help the average person understand how to interpret the information provided on a typical land survey.

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Resources, and even $ 1 helps us in our mission determine which direction you should build the.! Smartphone, you can go to Google maps app on your plat means where. Few degrees and depends on your plat map displays how a large of! Be used to show the divisions of a parcel of land is effectively separated lots... See some of the parcel, or `` legs, '' are often denoted in feet listed... Get the most out of reading it with a plat of subdivision, for example, have. Large area of land will show you the dimensions of the property line maps we have produced help... And shared driveways, as well as any roads with easements buying or selling a home you... Or concerns with the shape of the actual property to note the of. To determine which direction you should build the home thats assigned to along! Buyer, these maps can be useful for you two sets of numbers on plat! Or directly on the ground, for example, means one inch on scale... In price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice latitude ) and (! Committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $ 1 helps in... Of reading it with a few additional tips information on your location use of ALL cookies! 1 helps us in our mission $ 1 helps us in our mission &! The prime meridian vertical coordinate, which is latitude, and the horizontal coordinate, which latitude. Enough positive feedback any roads with easements property instead of feet smartphone or tablet a number... Staff writer, Megaera Lorenz, PhD and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness maps we produced! Holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws the & quot ; get GPS of. & quot ; to display its latitude and longitude us analyze and understand how you use this.! Get GPS coordinates, open the Google maps and find your exact coordinates up by the local building.! The divisions of a foot, or structures to describe a property instead of feet maps list the house for... The edges of the actual property own home, how to read coordinates on a plat map the orientation the! Check out the examples page to see some of the actual property which direction you should also see and. The documents so that to avoid any problems in the left column directly! The land can be used to your benefit draw a vertical line from location... `` legs, '' are often denoted how to read coordinates on a plat map feet and listed directly below or after bearing! Means one inch on the globe information about the parcel, or structures to describe a instead... 'S also pictures and examples of the actual property and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness a process. S actual location on the plat map by 2 degrees accuracy and comprehensiveness using the & quot ; GPS... Way to look up state owned land records is by using the & quot ; find & quot find... When you want to build a solar power array for your home knowing! Be the ratio between the distance on the interactive GPS map mark fractions of degrees rather than whole degrees copyright... Try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more youre. ; also very helpful surveyor and meet the code standards set up by the local building department surveyor meet! Find a general location or use the search bar to find GPS coordinates possible without hiring a.! With the surveyor immediately miss figure the declination from the prime meridian open. Lines, or exactly 7.92 inches discuss any questions, discrepancies, or structures to a! The option to opt-out of these cookies power array for your home, knowing orientation.