PLSS Map

National Atlas

The PLSS system is a systematic Cadastral map. Most of the United States uses this system to divide up land. Principle meridians perpendicular to base lines are the basis for this system. Every 6 miles in all 4 directions another line is drawn. Zones created by north-south lines are called townships and zones created by east-west lines are called ranges. This system is most common in the midwest and western part of the country that was not influenced by the colonial metes and bounds system.