Deed Transfer Affidavit Process

Updated August 16th, 2021

If you are purchasing property in the City of Newark and require a Deed Transfer Affidavit, please contact the Planning and Development Department by email at planning-dept@newark.de.us or by phone at (302) 366-7000 and provide:

• Address or parcel ID of the property being purchased
• Names of all persons who will be listed on the deed
• A phone number or email where you may be contacted

Upon receipt of your request, Planning and Development Department staff will respond by phone and/or email with instructions for completion of the process. If you choose to complete the affidavit in person appointments are preferred and masks are required.

Welcome packets can be emailed or are available for pickup at the Municipal building Monday through Friday from 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m with a break for lunch from 12:00 to 1:00p.m.  Welcome packets can be mailed upon request. 

About Deed Transfer Affidavit

The City Zoning Code requires that all purchasers of property in the City of Newark must contact the Planning and Development Department on the second floor of the Newark Municipal Building and sign a statement called a Deed Transfer Affidavit, sometimes referred to as a Buyer's Affidavit. This statement certifies that the purchaser has been told about the zoning of the property being acquired, zoning of adjacent land, and, if applicable, the location of the 100 year floodplain in relationship to the property.

The affidavit must be signed by at least one person whose name will appear on the property deed. If a purchaser is unable to visit the Planning and Development Department in-person, a power-of-attorney is required for the affidavit to be completed by a third party.

There is no fee for the affidavit and the process takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Planning and Development Department office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a break for lunch from 12:00 to 1:00p.m.

Buyer's Packet

Upon completion of the Deed Transfer Affidavit, purchasers are provided with a Buyer’s Packet which contains useful information for those new to the City of Newark, such as refuse and recycling collection schedules, local bus schedules, downtown Newark and bicycling maps, and a community events calendar.