The parcel identification number from the assessment roll, sometimes referred to as the tax map number or SBL, is synonymous with the location of the parcel on the tax map. The county tax map is broken down into approximately 1,133 sections and subsections. Those sections are further broken down by block with each block containing lots. The lots are the individual land parcels found on an assessment roll.
While utilizing the online
Tax Map Explorer is the most convenient way to search for and view parcels on the tax map, as the parcel ID can be typed directly into the search box. The paper versions are still filed in our office and
available online as PDF copies. If you choose to view the tax map in this way, you will find this page useful in understanding how to identify your particular tax parcel without the use of a search index.
What is a Tax ID, Parcel ID, or SBL number?
SBL stands for "Section, Block, and Lot" and it is how a tax map number is formatted. This is the same number that is sometimes called a Tax ID or Parcel ID number on the assessment roll and tax bills.
It refers to the Section map that the parcel is located on, which Block to look in within that Section, and on which specific Lot within that Block that the parcel can be found.
Where can I find the section number on the tax map?
The section number can be found in the bottom right hand corner of each map page.
How do I identify the Block and Lot numbers on the tax map?
Block numbers are outlined in a red hexagon and are located near the nominal center of the block (which is bounded in red dash lines).
Lot numbers are printed near the center of the parcel above the acreage (if acreage is present).
Calculated vs. Deeded or Survey dimensions and acreage
If a deed or survey gives an exact dimension and/or acreage, such as “thence along the center of the road 100 feet to the point of beginning and containing 1 acre, more or less” we will note both the deeded road frontage and the deeded acreage on the tax map.
If the deed does not give exact dimensions, such as “thence along the center of the road to the point of beginning and containing all the land within said bounds” we utilize the calculation tools from the mapping program for those measurements and will note the map as follows: For acreage we append a (C) to the calculated acreage to denote that it had been calculated. For dimensions, we append (S) to the dimension to show that it has been scaled.
Land Hooks
When a parcel of land is split by a roadway, right of way, or physical boundary (lake, river, etc), but only one description for the property exists, a land hook is used to show this relationship. In the example below the two seemingly separate parcels are both considered Parcel 7 on the assessment roll and the land hooks have been placed at a logical angle to show the map reader that relationship.
Land hooks can also be created when a parcel is merged by request and the two parcels being merged are split by a roadway, right of way, or physical boundary.
Subdivision lots and old parcel lines
When a subdivision containing numbered lots is on file with the County Clerk, those subdivision lot numbers are noted in the top right-hand corner of the tax map parcels.
When two lots are merged either by filed deed, survey, or request, the old parcel line that divided the former parcels is replaced with a light grey dotted line to show the history. In the image above Parcel 8.06 includes lots 6 & 7 of the filed subdivision and Parcel 8.08 includes lots 8 & 9 of the filed subdivision.
Great lot lines and hydrology
Great lots are the original military lots or patent subdivisions that existed in the early 1800s. The great lots are noted on the tax map by green dashed lines and green numbered notations in the top right hand corner of each great lot.
The blue dotted lines shown in the example above are hydrology lines denoting natural water sources like streams, rivers, and lakes.
