Cadast

Cadast refers to a system of public land registration that identifies and records ownership and boundaries of real property. It is a fundamental component of land management and administration in many countries, serving as a crucial tool for legal certainty, taxation, and urban planning. The primary function of a cadastral system is to create a comprehensive and up-to-date inventory of land parcels, detailing their location, size, shape, and legal owner.

The information contained within a cadastral system is typically presented in two main forms: a textual description (the cadastre) and a graphical representation (the cadastral map). The cadastre includes legal information such as ownership details, land use rights, and any encumbrances like mortgages or easements. The cadastral map, on the other hand, visually depicts the spatial extent of each property. These two components are usually linked, allowing users to correlate textual data with specific geographic areas.

Cadastral systems are essential for various governmental and private sector activities. They provide a basis for property taxation, ensuring that governments can levy taxes based on land ownership and value. They also facilitate land transactions, such as sales, inheritance, and leasing, by providing clear proof of ownership and avoiding disputes over boundaries. Furthermore, cadastral information is vital for infrastructure development, environmental management, and emergency response planning. The accuracy and accessibility of cadastral data directly impact the efficiency and fairness of these processes.