Ownership and Land Use, 15% of the examination
Metes and bounds
A legal-description method using directions, distances, monuments, and a point of beginning.
A valid description traces the parcel boundary and returns to the point of beginning. Monuments generally control over courses and distances when descriptions conflict because a physical monument can provide stronger evidence of the intended boundary.
See also
Test the distinction
A relevant question from Ownership and Land Use, selected because its facts or explanation use this concept.
Which method of land description uses distances and compass bearings from a defined point of beginning?
Written to DRE's published topic list. Not a real examination question, since reproducing those is a misdemeanor under B&P Code section 123.
Primary sources
Use these authorities when a course summary, forum answer, or older flashcard conflicts with the current California rule.