Johnston, IA · Polk County
Conservation Easement
This agreement establishes a conservation easement over specified real estate and sets restrictions for protecting natural features, drainage ways, and landscaping. The grantor files it for the benefit of subdivision lot owners and the City of Johnston.
- licensed online notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
The agreement places a perpetual conservation easement on the described property, restricts activities and structures in the easement area, and makes lot owners responsible for maintenance. It states that its terms run with the land and may be enforced by the City, lot owners, or a homeowners association. The easement is not binding until the City’s governing body approves and accepts it; the form includes a City Clerk acceptance certificate.
Who needs it
A grantor conveying a conservation easement over property in a Johnston subdivision uses this form, which requires City Council approval and acceptance.
Why it needs a notary
The grantor’s representative signs before a notary using the acknowledgment block, which says the record was acknowledged and the signer was duly sworn.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Form
Get the Conservation Easement form and review its restrictions, signature block, and City Clerk acceptance certificate.
- 2
Fill In the Details
Complete the grantor, subdivision, lot, and legal description information, including any referenced exhibits.
- 3
Book an Online Notary
Arrange an online notarization for the grantor’s representative and have acceptable identification ready.
- 4
Sign on Video
Sign the grantor acknowledgment during the online notary session and complete the notarial process.
- 5
Submit to the City
Follow the form’s return instructions for the Johnston Community Development Department and confirm any approval or recording steps.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Johnston. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I complete the conservation easement agreement?
- Fill in the grantor, subdivision, lot, and property description details, then arrange the required grantor signature and notarization. The form also includes a City Clerk certificate for City Council approval and acceptance.
- Do I need to sign this agreement before a notary?
- Yes. The grantor’s representative signs the agreement using its acknowledgment block, which states that the record was acknowledged and the signer was duly sworn.
- Can I sign the agreement with a commissioned online notary?
- Iowa authorizes remote online notarization for its own notaries under Iowa Code §9B.14A. Confirm that the City and the document’s recipient will accept the notarized record; confirm with the city if unsure.
- What happens after the easement is signed?
- The form provides for City Council approval and acceptance through a City Clerk certificate. The cover sheet names the City of Johnston Community Development Department as the return destination.