A plat — also called a plat map, subdivision plat, or recorded plat — is a detailed, scaled drawing of a subdivision or development that shows the boundaries of each individual lot, streets, easements, common areas, and other features. When a developer divides a larger parcel of land into individual lots for sale, they must create and record a plat with the county that establishes the legal description for each new lot. The plat becomes part of the public record and serves as the definitive reference for property boundaries within that subdivision.
A plat map contains specific information required by local subdivision regulations: the subdivision name, lot numbers and block numbers, lot dimensions and areas, street names and widths, utility and drainage easements, setback lines, common areas, and reference to the surveyor's certificate and local government approval. Each lot is assigned a unique identifier — for example, "Lot 5, Block 3, Sunny Acres Subdivision" — that becomes its legal description and is referenced on every deed, mortgage, and title insurance policy for that property.
Before a plat can be recorded, it must go through a review and approval process with local government. The planning and zoning department verifies that the subdivision complies with zoning requirements, including minimum lot sizes, density limits, setbacks, and open space requirements. The engineering department reviews drainage, utilities, and road standards. Once approved, the plat is recorded with the county recorder — creating new legal parcels that can be individually sold and financed.
During the title search, the plat is reviewed to confirm the property's legal description and identify any platted easements, restrictions, or dedicated areas. Platted easements — such as a 10-foot utility easement along the rear of each lot — appear on the title commitment as exceptions. An ALTA survey compares the actual property conditions against the plat to identify any discrepancies or encroachments.
At Beycome Title, we review the applicable plat for every subdivision property we close, verifying that the legal description is accurate and identifying all platted easements and restrictions. Our title examination ensures nothing on the plat creates an unexpected issue for the buyer. Get your free title quote.