When a deed is recorded, its metes and bounds description (Legal Description) is checked against the official registry for changes or confirmation.

There are over 5000 registry maps representing the entire county of Philadelphia. Every metes and bounds description is assigned a 10 digit registry number. The first 6 digits represent the map number. The last 4 digits represent the parcel number.

Maps with an ‘S’ in the registry number include everything south of Market Street. Maps with an ‘N’ in the registry number include everything north of Market Street.

When a consolidation or subdivision occurs it is given the next highest parcel number on that registry map.

Parcel Remainder: A subdivided parcel where no metes and bounds description was recorded, mathematically closing the remaining portion of area. Those parcels retain there original registry number until a deed confirming the remaining piece is recorded.

Inactive parcels are metes and bounds descriptions which have been consolidated or subdivided in total. There relevance lies in there historical value.

Data Development:

Polygons are created by georeferencing survey plans into Arcmap. Or created manually using the metes and bounds description written in the deed.

Key Attribute Fields:

Base Registry – Identification number of a parcel or unit in a condominium

Map Registry – Identification number of a parcel of land.

Parcel Number – Lot number

Registry Map – Map number

Coordinate System:

Lambert Conformal Conic, NAD83, PA South Stateplane coordinates, US Foot