Ames, IA · Story County
Final Plat Approval of a Major Subdivision
This application packet is for property owners seeking City of Ames approval of a major subdivision’s final plat after the preliminary plat has been approved.
- 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 packet gathers the application, checklist, plat copies, fee, and supporting documents needed for City review of a major subdivision’s final plat. Ames requires filing after preliminary plat approval and within one year of that approval; the application must be complete before review proceeds. Required attachments include notarized certificates from the owners and any mortgage or lien holders, along with other supporting materials listed in the packet.
Who needs it
Property owners seeking final plat approval for a major subdivision in Ames must submit the completed packet after preliminary plat approval and within one year.
Why it needs a notary
The packet requires notarized owner and mortgage- or lien-holder certificates; each owner and applicable mortgage or lien holder signs the certificate before a notary.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Packet
Get the Final Plat Approval of a Major Subdivision application packet and review its checklist and required attachments.
- 2
Fill Out the Forms
Complete the application form and checklist, and gather the plats and supporting documents listed in the packet.
- 3
Book an Online Notary
Arrange a session with a commissioned online notary for the owner and applicable mortgage- or lien-holder certificates.
- 4
Sign on Video
Each signer appears before the notary by video and signs the relevant certificate as directed.
- 5
Submit to the City
File the complete packet and required materials with the City of Ames Department of Planning and Housing.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Ames. 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 get the owner and lienholder certificates notarized?
- Complete the required certificates, then book a session with a commissioned online notary. The owners and applicable mortgage or lien holders sign their certificates before the notary.
- Do I need a notary for every final plat attachment?
- The packet specifically requires notarized certificates from the property owners and from any mortgage or lien holders. It lists other attachments separately; confirm with the city if unsure.
- Can I sign the certificates with a commissioned online notary?
- Iowa authorizes remote online notarization by its notaries under Iowa Code §9B.14A. Ask the City of Ames whether it will accept the remotely notarized certificates with your packet.
- Where do I submit the final plat application packet?
- Submit the completed packet to the City of Ames Department of Planning and Housing, 515 Clark Avenue, Room 214, Ames, Iowa 50010.