- contiguous
- Literally, in actual contact, an actual touching. One parcel of land is "contiguous" to another parcel of land when the two parcels are not separated by outside land. See Vestal v Little Rock, 54 Ark 321, 15 SW 891. Appearing in statutes, the term is construed at times somewhat differently, depending upon the context and subject matter of the entire statute. 50 Am J1st Stat § 288. In its popular sense, and as used in local improvement acts, the word means in actual or close contact; touching; adjacent; or near. 48 Am J1st Spec A § 119. Within the meaning of homestead statutes, whether lands touching at a common corner only are contiguous is a question upon which the decisions are in conflict. Some decisions hold that they are. Others hold that the homestead law may not be invoked in respect to two parcels which only corner with each other. The view has also been expressed that under the strict definition of the term "contiguous," as meaning touching sides, adjoining, or adjacent, two tracts of land which touch only at one point are not contiguous. 26 Am J1st Home § 37. A building 25 feet from another building is not "contiguous" to it within the meaning of the provision in a fire insurance policy as to the erection of the building contiguous to that insured. 29A Am J Rev ed Ins § 878. See adjacent.
Ballentine's law dictionary. Anderson, W.S.. 1998.