As a homeowner, you probably have a general idea of where your property begins and ends. Maybe it’s along your driveway, the edge of your lawn, or a fence that has been there for years. But are those markers aligned with the official property lines? Knowing your exact property boundaries is essential for many reasons, from avoiding disputes with neighbors to planning construction projects.
Before you take on any outdoor project like building a deck, installing a pool, or putting up a new fence, it's critical to know where your property lines lie. Doing so helps you stay on the right side of local regulations and ensures that you don’t accidentally encroach on your neighbor’s land. Let’s explore how to find your property lines and why it's important.
What are Property Lines?
Property lines mark the legal boundaries of a piece of land. These lines determine where one plot of land ends and another begins. Developers and surveyors create these lines to establish ownership, which is recorded in county or city records.
At the front of your property, you’ll find the frontage line, which runs across the front of your lot. The side lines, or sidelines, run along the edges of your plot. Zoning laws and local ordinances often dictate how close you can build to these lines, so it’s essential to understand exactly where they are.
Why is it Important to Know your Property Lines?
Having a clear understanding of your property lines can help you:
- Avoid legal disputes with neighbors over land encroachment.
- Ensure your construction projects, such as building a fence or adding a room, comply with local building codes.
- Make informed decisions when landscaping or renovating.
Accidentally building on your neighbor’s property can lead to costly disputes and legal challenges. Even simple projects like planting trees could become problematic if you don’t have an accurate sense of your boundaries.
How to Find your Property Lines
- Check your property deed: Your property deed contains a legal description of your land. It often includes references to landmarks, subdivisions, or other key features that help define your boundaries. You can get a copy of your deed from the county recorder’s office.
- Review a plat map: A plat map provides a visual layout of the property and its surroundings. It shows the precise dimensions of your lot and where it sits in relation to other lots. You can often find a copy of the plat map at your county clerk’s office.
- Use GIS Maps: Platforms like AcreValue and Google Maps can display property lines for many locations. AcreValue allows you to view plat maps with accurate property line information from the comfort of your home.
- Hire a licensed surveyor: For the most accurate information, consider hiring a licensed surveyor. A surveyor will use historical records and modern tools to locate your property lines with precision. While this option comes with a cost, it can be necessary for major projects or legal disputes.
- Visit your local zoning department: Your city or county’s zoning department keeps records of property surveys. You can request a copy of any existing surveys for your property, though there may be a small fee.
- Use a compass and measuring tape: If you want to get hands-on, you can attempt to measure your property lines yourself. Start at a known point (such as a corner marked on a plat map) and measure distances with a tape measure. While this method isn’t as precise as a professional survey, it can give you a better idea of your property’s layout.