What is a Range in the context of government property description?

In the context of government property description, a range refers to a six-mile wide strip that is used primarily in the rectangular survey system, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS). This system divides land into townships and sections, with each township consisting of 36 square miles. Ranges run north to south outside of a specific principal meridian, providing a systematic way to describe larger parcels of land.

The use of ranges is essential for land surveying and legal descriptions because it helps create a framework for identifying specific locations within the grid laid out by the government. Each range is numbered according to its distance in miles from the designated principal meridian, making it a vital element in land documentation, transactions, and enforcement of land use regulations.

Understanding this concept is crucial for code enforcement officers, as accurate property descriptions are foundational for establishing jurisdiction and ensuring compliance with local codes and ordinances.