What is required to complete and convey a conservation easement?
For a Grantor to convey a conservation easement that qualifies for a federal tax deduction, the following documents need to be prepared: • Conservation Easement (drafted by either the Grantee or the Grantor’s attorney); • Inventory of the Property (prepared by a biologist, planner or other consultant); • Appraisal (prepared by an independent appraiser working for the Grantor); • Title work (usually prepared by the Grantor’s attorney); • Survey and legal description (prepared by a surveyor working for the Grantor); • Form 8283 (an attachment to the federal tax return of all individuals claiming contributions more than $5000, prepared by the Grantor or his accountant). Many Grantee organizations will also request management endowments from the Grantor to help cover future monitoring expenses. Return to top.
