How does the Plant Patent Application Declaration differ for applications filed before and after September 16, 2012?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

The requirements for plant patent application declarations differ slightly depending on whether the application was filed before or after September 16, 2012. MPEP 1604 outlines these differences:

  • For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012: The declaration must comply with 37 CFR 1.63 or 37 CFR 1.64.
  • For applications filed before September 16, 2012: The declaration must comply with pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.63.

In both cases, the additional requirements specific to plant patents (asexual reproduction and, if applicable, discovery in a cultivated area) still apply.

Tags: AIA, Declaration Requirements, Filing Date, Plant Patent