Cadastral

Cadastral refers to the cadastre, a public record or map of land ownership and boundaries within a jurisdiction. A cadastral system records the location, size, and shape of land parcels, their owners or holders, and related rights, restrictions, and responsibilities. The cadastre provides a stable reference framework for property transactions, taxation, planning, and resource management.

Core elements typically include a cadastral map or plan showing parcel boundaries, a parcel identifier, legal descriptions of land parcels, and records of ownership. Additional information may cover rights of way, easements, mortgages, leases, and restrictions that affect each parcel. The data underpin property titles, land valuation, and the administration of land use.

Cadastral work combines field surveys and legal registration. Traditional surveys determine or confirm boundaries and corners, while registration links the map to legal title and encumbrances. Modern cadastres are often digital and integrated with geographic information systems (GIS), allowing updates from surveys, aerial or satellite imagery, and automated data exchanges among agencies.

Relationship to land registration varies by country. In some systems the cadastre primarily supports property description and valuation, while separate land registries record legal title. Other systems integrate both functions, sometimes within a Torrens title framework that emphasizes indefeasible title.

Global practice increasingly emphasizes digital cadastres, interoperability, and standards such as the ISO 19152 (Land Administration Domain Model) and related European and national initiatives. Use cases include taxation, urban planning, development control, and disaster risk management, with ongoing attention to accuracy, updating, privacy, and resource requirements.