Subdivision Map Seal Exception (Government Code §66436(c))

Subdivision maps — large-format engineering documents used to subdivide real property for recording — are typically drawn on mylar or similar materials that do not accept standard rubber stamp ink. Because the official seal cannot be cleanly applied to these surfaces, Government Code §66436(c) creates a limited exception.

For subdivision map certificates only, the notary may omit the rubber stamp seal entirely. In its place, three pieces of information must be typed or printed directly below or immediately adjacent to the notary's signature on the acknowledgment:

1. The notary's name as it appears on the commission
2. The county of the notary's principal place of business
3. The notary's commission expiration date

This exception applies to no other document type. All other notarizations require an affixed seal.

Exam Tip: When an exam question asks which documents may be notarized without affixing an official seal, the answer is subdivision map certificates — and only those. A notary who omits the seal on any other document has not completed a valid notarial act, regardless of any other notation they make.