Texas abstracts vs PLSS
Most US states use the PLSS township-and-range grid. Texas does not. It kept the GLO abstract-and-survey system from its days as an independent republic.
Why Texas is different
Instead of township/range/section, Texas land is tied to an original survey and an abstract number within a county. The Panhandle adds a block/section style. Both Texas styles route to Township America.
Last reviewed June 2026. General information about survey systems — not legal, title, or survey advice.
Sources: US BLM — Cadastral Survey (PLSS), Natural Resources Canada — About Canada Lands surveys.