Metes and Bounds

Metes and bounds is the oldest system of legal land description. “Metes” refers to distance (measured in feet or chains), and “bounds” refers to direction (angles, bearings, and boundaries). This description always begins and ends at a specific “Point of Beginning” (POB).

Texas-Specific Nuance & Citation

In Texas, because of the state’s historical background as a sovereign republic with original land grants, metes and bounds descriptions are extremely common, especially for rural acreage. The descriptions often reference old natural markers, though modern surveys use precise GPS coordinates.

The Trap

The biggest exam trap with metes and bounds is the Point of Beginning. For a metes and bounds description to be legally valid, it must be completely closed. This means the description must start at the Point of Beginning, outline the entire perimeter, and return exactly to that same Point of Beginning.

Worked Example

A deed for a rural ranch in Hill County describes the property as: “Beginning at a stone monument at the intersection of FM 933 and Creek Road; thence running North 45 degrees East for 500 feet; thence South 45 degrees East for 300 feet; thence South 45 degrees West for 500 feet; thence North 45 degrees West for 300 feet to the point of beginning.” This is a metes and bounds legal description.