Public Land Survey System (PLSS)

The Public Land Survey System (PLSS) is a method used in the United States to divide and describe land for sale and ownership. Established in the late 18th century, it divides land into a grid of townships, each six miles square, further split into sections of 640 acres. The system helps identify locations using a standardized format, making it easier to buy, sell, and manage land. The PLSS primarily applies to western states and is crucial for land management, property boundaries, and mapping. It ensures clarity and consistency in land transactions and records.