Land records · Parcel maps · October 5, 2026
What Is a Section Line Easement?
A section line easement is a public right of way along survey section lines in some states, often 33 feet each side. Where they exist and how they apply.
What is a section line easement? A section line easement is a public right of way that exists along the lines dividing survey sections in certain states, created by state law rather than by a recorded deed. In states such as North Dakota and South Dakota, the public generally has a right to travel along section lines, commonly 33 feet on each side for a total of 66 feet, unless the right has been closed or vacated. Alaska also has section line easements with widths that vary by date and circumstance. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
Where section lines come from
Much of the United States was surveyed under the Public Land Survey System into townships about six miles square, divided into 36 sections of about one square mile. See what is the Public Land Survey System and what is a section, township, and range. Section lines form a grid, and many rural roads follow them.
How section line easements arose
Some states accepted a federal offer of rights of way across unreserved public land for highways and declared section lines open for public roads. Others passed their own statutes. Because the easement arises by law, it may not appear on a deed or title commitment.
Typical features
| Feature | Common situation |
|---|---|
| Width | Often 33 feet each side of the line in the Dakotas; varies elsewhere |
| Creation | State statute or acceptance of federal grant |
| Recording | Often not separately recorded |
| Use | Public travel, roads, sometimes utilities |
| Closing | Counties or townships may close or vacate under state procedures |
Not every state has section line easements, and rules differ widely.
Effects on landowners
- Fences and buildings placed in the easement may need to be removed if a road is opened.
- Public access may be allowed along unopened section lines in some states, sometimes limited by terrain, water, or local closures.
- Setbacks may be measured from the edge of the easement.
- Development along section lines should consider future road needs.
Finding whether one applies
- Check whether your state recognizes section line easements.
- Identify section lines through or along the parcel on a PLSS map or parcel viewer. See what is a quarter section.
- Ask the county or township highway office about closures or vacations.
- Review title exceptions and plats; some note section line rights of way.
See how to find easements on a property and easement vs right of way.
Section line easements and surveys
Surveyors in affected states often show section line rights of way on plats and surveys. Because original section corners may have been lost or reestablished, the exact location of the line depends on a proper survey.
Common questions from buyers
A buyer of rural land in an affected state should ask whether any section line through or along the property has been opened, closed, or vacated, and whether existing fences or farm buildings sit inside the right of way. Because the easement may not be listed in title documents, local officials and surveyors are often the best sources.
Bottom line
A section line easement is a public right of way along PLSS section lines created by state law in places like the Dakotas and Alaska, often 33 feet on each side. It may not appear on deeds, can affect fences and buildings, and may be closed under state procedures. Ask county officials and view section lines on the Platbookmapper map.
What is a section line easement FAQ
What is a section line easement?
A public right of way along survey section lines, created by state law in some states.
How wide is a section line easement?
Commonly 33 feet on each side in the Dakotas; widths vary by state.
Do section line easements appear on deeds?
Often not, because they arise by statute.
Can a section line easement be closed?
Many states allow counties or townships to close or vacate them.
Which states have section line easements?
North Dakota, South Dakota, and Alaska are well-known examples; check your state’s law.