Installment Purchase Program (IPP)

Offutt IPP pond

In 2002, Frederick County began the Installment Purchase Program (IPP), for purchasing easements through the use of Installment Purchase Agreements. This agreement pays the farmer tax-free interest-only over a period of 10 to 20 years with a balloon lump sum principle payment at the end of the term. Over 20,700 acres have been preserved through the Installment Purchase Program.

Notice of Public Hearing

Tuesday, February 2, 2026 at 5:30 pm

First Floor Hearing Room of Winchester Hall, 12 E. Church Street, Frederick, Maryland


Requirements

To apply for an IPP easement, property owners must meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Have a minimum of 50 acres, unless an adjoining property is already protected
  • Have a soil quality of at least 50% class I, II, or III soils, or woodland groups I and II

  • Have remaining development rights. Properties with no development rights may apply if the property adjoins permanently protected land consisting of over 50 acres or the property is within 2,000 feet of a comprehensive plan growth area

The application cycle for the Installment Purchase Program is currently closed.  New applications will be accepted beginning Summer 2026.