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    Understanding Legal Parcels, Descriptions and the Subdivision Map Act

    This image features a scenic view of blooming almond orchards in Northern California with the Appraisal Institute Northern California Chapter Logo

    California not only maintains the most complex and far-reaching land regulations in the nation: it is also the only one of 50 states that has state-mandated land use regulations and procedures, which are in addition to local county, city and other regulatory ordinances.

     

    There is widespread confusion regarding what constitutes a legal parcel. While California’s Subdivision Map Act provides a legal framework, it’s not so simple to navigate the SMA’s complexities.  This presentation will inform attendees’ understanding of significant considerations pertaining to legal parcels, which are a critically important element in real property appraisals and Market Value.   


    This offering provides a unique and engaging review of all you need to know about legal parcels, legal subdivisions, legal descriptions, and related issues!

    Topics:
    Agriculture
    Easements
    Environmental
    Land/Site Valuation
    Litigation
    Market Analysis
    Review
    Special Purpose Property
    Valuation Approaches
    Continuing Education
    Commercial
    Residential
    Who Should Enroll

    Appraisers, assessors, lenders, regulators, those who work with government agencies or title companies whose assignments or clients may be involved in legal parcels.
    Course Offerings
    Sponsor Date Location Format
    Northern California Chapter November 19, 2026 Monterey, CA Classroom View Details Register
    Course Objectives

    • What is PLSS? Lot & Block? Metes & Bounds?

    • Tract Map vs. Parcel Map vs. Record of Survey

    • Difference between Assessor’s Parcels and Legal Parcels

    • California’s Subdivision Map Act

    • Certificates of Compliance

    • Legal non-conforming parcels and merger provisions

    • Types of legal descriptions & how to read them

    • Units of measure and curve descriptors

    • How to draw a legal description

    • Useful computer programs 
    Course Materials & Recommended Books
    The instructor will provide relevant materials.
    State Approvals
    State QE/CE Course & Exam Course Only Exam Only Delivery Format Start Date Expire Date State Code
    CA CE 3 Classroom 11/01/2026 10/31/2030 pending