Blog · September 27, 2026
What Is the Legend on a Plat
The legend explains the symbols used on that sheet.
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It distinguishes iron pins set from corners found, fence lines from property lines, and easements from lot lines. Those symbols are not universal from one surveyor to the next.
On the recorded sheet
Read the legend before you trace a dashed line. Dashed can mean easement, old lot line, or adjoining information.
The mix-up to avoid
A GIS layer list is a different legend. It will not define the plat's symbols.
Find the county map
Start at Platbookmapper, search the county, and open the local GIS link. Write down the parcel number before you compare the screen to a paper plat.
Not a survey. County GIS and tax parcel maps are assessment and planning layers. They are not a substitute for a recorded plat, deed, or licensed survey.