What is express dedication in land surveying?

Express dedication in land surveying refers to a formal and intentional transfer of property rights or interests from a landowner to the public or a specific entity, clearly documented through a deed or written instrument. This method provides clear evidence of the landowner's intent to dedicate the property for public use, such as parks, streets, or other public facilities.

The significance of a written document lies in its ability to establish legal ownership, specify the terms of the dedication, and provide documentation that can be referenced in future disputes or developments. It distinguishes express dedication from other forms, such as implied or prescriptive dedications, where intent and usage may not be formally documented, or where rights may be asserted through common usage or historical claims. In contrast, options that involve verbal agreements or boundaries established through common usage do not hold the same legal weight or clarity that a written dedication provides.