What is the purpose of metes and bounds in property description?

The purpose of metes and bounds is to describe a parcel of land by its boundaries. This method provides a precise and detailed description of the property’s shape and size by using physical features, measurements, and compass directions. Metes refer to the specific measurements and distances between points, while bounds refer to the larger landmarks or features surrounding the property, such as roads, rivers, or trees. This descriptive system is particularly useful in regions where rectangular surveys are not applicable, allowing for a clear understanding of the specific area of land being referenced.

The other options do not accurately represent the function of metes and bounds. Identifying the climate of an area is unrelated to property descriptions, and historical ownership pertained to title history rather than the physical dimensions and borders of the land. Additionally, zoning restrictions involve regulations governing land use and development, which are separate from the method of describing land boundaries.