Iowa DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Reference Guide

OFF-HIGHWAY

VEHICLE

REFERENCE

GUIDE

IOWA DEPARTMENT

OF NATURAL

RESOURCES

OFF-HIGHWAY

VEHICLE

REFERENCE

GUIDE

IOWA DEPARTMENT

OF NATURAL

RESOURCES

This booklet contains rules and regulations most

likely needed for motorized recreational use in Iowa.

However, it is not a complete list of all regulations or laws,

nor is it a legal document. For more information, please

reference Iowa Code Chapters 321 and 321I and

Iowa Administrative Code, Chapter 571.

ATV

EDUCATION

ATV riders in the state of Iowa who are ages

12 through 17 are required to complete an approved

ATV Safety Course and carry the Iowa ATV Safety

Certiﬁcate with them while riding on designated riding

areas, designated public land, and public ice.

To enroll in the

DNR-approved online course:

www.ATVCourse.com

IOWA DEPARTMENT OF

NATURAL RESOURCES

OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE

REFERENCE GUIDE

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is required to collect

social security numbers from all persons obtaining a hunting, ﬁshing,

or other recreational license under Iowa Code Section 252J.8 and 42

U.S. Code Section 666(a)(13). Your social security number will serve

as your principal identiﬁcation number to determine your eligibility for

licenses. It will be provided to law enforcement agencies and the Iowa

Child Support Collection Unit to establish, modify, and enforce child

support obligations. It will NOT appear on any printed forms.

Table of Contents

Deﬁnitions .............................................................................................3

Laws and Regulations

Registration Requirements.............................................................6

Machines Registered in Iowa...................................................6

Machines Registered in Another State—

DNR Nonresident User Permits ...............................................8

Exempt vehicles ........................................................................9

Titling Requirements ................................................................9

RVVRS..................................................................................... 10

DNR Nonresident User Permits ............................................ 11

Requirements ........................................................................ 11

Unlawful Operation....................................................................... 12

Civil Penalty and Restitution........................................................ 13

Negligence .................................................................................... 13

Ofﬁcer’s Signal to Stop................................................................. 13

Inspections—Warnings—Termination of Use............................... 13

Operation on Roadways and Highways....................................... 14

Use on Snowmobile Trails............................................................ 15

Equipment Requirements............................................................ 15

Vehicle Identiﬁcation Number ..................................................... 15

Carrying a Firearm on an OHV..................................................... 16

Hunting and OHVs........................................................................ 16

Accidents ...................................................................................... 17

Proof of Insurance........................................................................ 17

Special Events .............................................................................. 17

Education/Safety/Stewardship

Education...................................................................................... 18

ATVCourse.com............................................................................. 18

Safety ............................................................................................ 19

Size Considerations...................................................................... 19

Tread Lightly!................................................................................. 20

Trail Ettiquette .............................................................................. 21

Iowa OHV Association .................................................................. 22

Park Information

Park Rules..................................................................................... 24

Age-related Operation Guidelines ............................................... 24

Park Maps .................................................................................... 26

Trail Signs .......................................................................................... 36

Web Sites ............................................................................ Back Cover

Deﬁnitions

All-terrain vehicle (ATV) means a motorized vehicle with not less

than three and not more than six nonhighway tires that is limited in

engine displacement to less than 1,000 cubic centimeters and in

total dry weight to less than 1,200 pounds and that has a seat or

saddle designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for

steering control.

Commission means the Natural Resource Commission of the

Department.

Department means the Department of Natural Resources.

Designated riding area means an OHV riding area on any public

land or ice under the jurisdiction of the Department that has been

designated by the Commission under Iowa Code Chapter 321I for

such use.

Designated riding trail means an OHV riding trail on any public

land, private land, or public ice that has been designated by the

Department, a political subdivision, or a controlling authority for

OHV use.

Direct supervision means to provide supervision of another person

while maintaining visual and verbal contact at all times.

Education certiﬁcate means an ATV education certiﬁcate, approved

by the Natural Resource Commission, which is issued to a qualiﬁed

applicant who is twelve years of age or older. The requirement to have

an education certiﬁcate does not apply to operators of ORMs or ORVs.

Nonresident means a person who is not a resident of this state.

Oﬀ-highway vehicles (OHVs) means all-terrain vehicles, off-road

motorcycles, and off-road utility vehicles, either collectively or

individually.

Oﬀ-road motorcycle (ORM) means a two-wheeled motor vehicle

that has a seat or saddle designed to be straddled by the operator

and handlebars for steering control and that is intended by the

manufacturer for use on natural terrain. Off-road motorcycle includes

a motorcycle that was originally issued a certiﬁcate of title and

registered for highway use under Iowa Code Chapter 321, but which

contains design features that enable operation over natural terrain.

Deﬁnitions

Oﬀ-road utility vehicle (ORV) means a motorized vehicle with not less

than four and not more than eight nonhighway tires or rubberized

tracks that has a seat that is of bucket or bench design, not intended

to be straddled by the operator, and a steering wheel or control levers

for control. “Off-road utility vehicle” includes the following vehicles:

“Of-road utility vehicle—type 1” means an off-road utility vehicle with

a total dry weight of one thousand two hundred pounds or less and a

width of ﬁfty inches or less. “Of-road utility vehicle—type 2” means

an off-road utility vehicle, other than a type 1 off-road utility vehicle,

with a total dry weight of two thousand pounds or less, and a width

of sixty-ﬁve inches or less. “Of-road utility vehicle—type 3” means

an off-road utility vehicle with a total dry weight of more than two

thousand pounds or a width of more than sixty-ﬁve inches, or both.

Operate means to ride in or on, other than as a passenger, use, or

control the operation of an OHV in any manner, whether or not the

OHV is moving.

Operator means a person who operates or is in actual physical

control of an OHV.

Owner means a person, other than a lienholder, having the property

right in or title to an OHV. Owner includes a person entitled to the

use or possession of an OHV subject to an interest in another

person, reserved or created by agreement and securing payment or

performance of an obligation. Owner excludes a lessee under a lease

not intended as security.

Public ice means any frozen, navigable waters within the territorial

limits of this state and the frozen marginal river areas adjacent to this

state, other than farm ponds, that are under the jurisdiction of the

Natural Resource Commission.

Public land means land owned by the federal government, the state

of Iowa, or a political subdivision of the state and land acquired or

developed for public recreation pursuant to Iowa Code

Section 321I.8.

Railroad right-of-way means the full width of property owned, leased,

or subject to easement for railroad purposes and is not limited to

those areas on which tracks are located.

Resident means as deﬁned in Iowa Code Section 483A.1A.

Roadway means that portion of a highway improved, designed, or

ordinarily used for vehicular travel.

Deﬁnitions

Special event means an organized race, exhibition, or demonstration

of limited duration which is conducted on public land, public ice, or a

designated riding trail under the jurisdiction of the Natural Resource

Commission according to a prearranged schedule and in which general

public interest is manifested.

Street or highway means the entire width between property lines of

every way or place of whatever nature when any part thereof is open

to the use of the public, as a matter of right, for purposes of vehicular

travel, except in public areas in which the boundary shall be thirty-three

feet each side of the center line of the roadway.

{

Fence

Ditch

}

Roadway

Highway or

(includes

Right-of-Way

shoulder)

Ditch

Fence

Private Property

Laws and Regulations

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

Machines Registered in Iowa

• Each OHV in Iowa used on public land or ice, a designated riding

area, or a designated trail of this state must be currently registered

with the DNR. A person shall not operate, maintain, or give permission

for the operation or maintenance of an OHV on public land or public

ice unless the OHV is registered in accordance with the laws and

administrative rules of Iowa or applicable federal laws.

• The owner of each OHV required to be registered shall ﬁle an

application for registration with the Department through a County

Recorder and pay all applicable fees. Vehicle dealers are required to

make application and pay all applicable registration and title fees on

behalf of a purchaser.

• An application for registration shall be made on the approved DNR

form. Applicants shall provide bill of sale, proof of prior registration,

and other proof of ownership of the vehicle as the County Recorder

may require. In the event the applicant does not have documentation

required by the DNR, the applicant may be required to secure a

bond consistent with the requirements of Iowa Administrative Code,

Chapter 571.

• Registration certiﬁcate.

• An operator of an OHV shall carry the registration

certiﬁcate either in the vehicle or on the person of the

operator when the OHV is in use.

• An operator must provide the registration certiﬁcate to all of

the following:

• To a peace ofﬁcer or department personnel upon request.

• To a person injured in an accident involving the OHV, or

that person’s agent.

• To the owner or operator of another OHV when the OHV is

involved in a collision or accident of any nature with the

OHV, or that person’s agent.

• To the owner of personal or real property when the

OHV is involved in a collision or accident of any

nature with the property of the other person, or that

person’s agent.

Laws and Regulations

Registration certiﬁcate. Continued from previous page

• To the property owner or tenant when the OHV is

being operated on private property without permission

from the property owner or tenant, or that person’s agent.

Registration decal display.

• All-terrain vehicle. The decal shall be afﬁxed to the rear of the

ATV so that the decal is clearly visible.

• Off-road motorcycle.The decal shall be afﬁxed to the steering

yoke in such a manner that the decal does not cover up the

vehicle identiﬁcation number and is clearly visible.

• Off-road utility vehicle.The decal shall be afﬁxed to the rear

of the vehicle so that the decal is clearly visible.

Operation pending registration.

• Purchase from dealer. An unregistered OHV sold

by a dealer shall bear a “registration applied for” card with

the purchase date printed on it. This entitles the purchaser to

operate the vehicle for 45 days immediately following the

purchase while the application is being processed. The

purchaser shall place this card on the rear of the OHV

and the steering yoke of an ORM in a position so as to be

clearly visible at all times and maintained in a legible manner.

The operator of any vehicle displaying a “registration

applied for” card shall carry and provide upon request

to any peace ofﬁcer a valid bill of sale for the vehicle.

• Private purchase—registered in Iowa. The purchaser

of an OHV that is currently registered in Iowa

may operate it for 30 days immediately following the

purchase without having completed a transfer of registration.

• Private purchase—not registered in Iowa. An OHV not

currently registered in the state of Iowa shall not be operated

until it is titled and registered in the purchaser’s name. Valid

registration in another state does not authorize

preregistration operation.

Registration renewals. Every OHV registration certiﬁcate and registration

decal expires at midnight on December 31 of the year issued.

Registrations can be renewed beginning September 1 and are valid for

the remainder of the current year and for the following year as printed on

the sticker.

Laws and Regulations

Machines Registered in Another State—

DNR Nonresident User Permits

• Any OHV registered in another state and used on public land or

ice, a designated riding area, or a designated trail of this state must

display registration in accordance with an approved numbering

system of that state and the evidence of registration must be in full

force and effect. This vehicle must also be issued and display a DNR

Nonresident User Permit.

• A DNR Nonresident User Permit will be issued for only one OHV

and is not transferable.

• DNR Nonresident User Permit Display.

• All-terrain vehicle.The permit shall be afﬁxed to the rear of

the all-terrain vehicle so that the permit is clearly visible.

• Off-road motorcycle.The permit shall be afﬁxed to the

steering yoke in such a manner that the permit does not

cover up the vehicle identiﬁcation number and is clearly

visible.

• Off-road utility vehicle.The permit shall be afﬁxed to the rear

of the vehicle so that the permit is clearly visible.

• A DNR Nonresident User Permit can be purchased starting

September 1 which will expire December 31 of the year printed on

the permit.

Laws and Regulations

Exempt Vehicles

Registration is not required for the following OHVs:

• A vehicle owned by the United States, this state, or another state,

or by a governmental subdivision of a state and is used for:

• Enforcement

• Search and rescue

• Ofﬁcial research and studies

• OHVs used exclusively for agricultural purposes.

Titling Requirements

• The owner of an OHV acquired on or after January 1, 2000,

other than an exempt vehicle or a motorcycle previously issued a

title pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 321, must apply to the County

Recorder of the county in which the owner resides, or the OHV is

registered, for a certiﬁcate of title for the vehicle.

• Vehicles that are titled are required to be registered.

• Vehicles that are titled must remain titled, regardless of intended use.

• The owner of a vehicle used exclusively for agricultural purposes

may obtain a certiﬁcate of title. A person who owns a vehicle that is

not required to have a certiﬁcate of title may apply for and receive a

certiﬁcate of title for the vehicle which makes the vehicle subject to

the registration requirements of Iowa Code Chapter 321I.

• The owner of an OHV is required to apply to the County Recorder in

their county of residence for issuance of a certiﬁcate of title within 30

days after acquisition.

• The applicant must provide the date of sale, the gross price of the

vehicle or the fair-market value of the machine if no sale immediately

preceded the transfer, and any additional information the County

Recorder or Department requires.

• If the vehicle was last previously registered or titled in another

state or foreign country, the applicant must provide this information

and any other information the County Recorder or Department

requires.

Laws and Regulations

• If a dealer is transferring ownership of a vehicle, the dealer will

assign the title to the new owner. In the case of a new vehicle, the

dealer will assign the certiﬁcate of origin. Within 45 days of purchase,

the dealer must forward all monies and applications to the County

Recorder.

• Once titled, a person must not sell or transfer ownership of a

vehicle without delivering to the purchaser or transferee a certiﬁcate

of title with an assignment on it showing the title in the purchaser’s or

transferee’s name. A person shall not purchase or otherwise acquire

an OHV without obtaining a certiﬁcate of title for the vehicle in the

purchaser’s name.

• A motorcycle that has been issued a certiﬁcate of title pursuant

to this section may be issued a title pursuant to chapter 321 upon

proper application and surrender of the existing title. Upon issuance

of a title pursuant to chapter 321, the certiﬁcate of title previously

issued pursuant to this section shall be returned to the issuing county

recorder.

RVVRS

The Recreational Vehicle and Vessel Registration System (RVVRS)

has been implemented by the DNR. This web-based system provides

added customer convenience by combining registration, title, and lien

information for all 99 counties into one system. Additionally, it creates

a streamlined renewal process for customers.

All newly owned machines or machines which have not been renewed

in RVVRS must be registered through the County Recorder’s Ofﬁce in

the owner’s county of residence. Renewals can be done at any County

Recorder’s Ofﬁce; you only need to provide the IA number assigned

to your OHV through RVVRS. OHVs can also be renewed at www.

gooutdoorsiowa.com.

If your vehicle record has not been entered into RVVRS, please

bring the following information with you when you go to renew your

registration:

• The most current registration form for your vehicle.

• Make, model, and model year of your vehicle.

Laws and Regulations

• VIN.

• Color of vehicle.

• Weight and engine displacement (CCs).

• Number of wheels.

DNR Nonresident User Permits

DNR Nonresident User Permits are sold at any general license agent

who sells hunting and ﬁshing permits and County Recorder ofﬁces.

The DNR Nonresident User Permit is printed on license/tag paper. It is

not issued to a machine, but rather to the user. The DNR Nonresident

User Permit must be displayed on the vehicle as noted under

Machines Registered in Another State. It is not transferable. Printing

the DNR Nonresident User Permit on the license/tag paper makes

them distinct from the registration decals.

DNR Nonresident

Requirements Registrations

User Permits

Renewal

Requirement

Must be renewed

each year

Must be renewed

each year

Renewal

Period

Starting

September 1

each year

Starting

September 1

each year

Expiration

December 31

each year

December 31

each year

Late Fee

$5.00, no

grace period

Not applicable

Display

Carried either in the machine

or on the operator; decal must

be afxed to the vehicle

Permit must be afﬁxed

to the vehicle

Laws and Regulations

Unlawful Operation

A person shall not drive or operate an OHV:

• On a designated riding area or designated riding trail unless signage

indicates the riding area or trail is open to the operation of ORVs.

• At a rate of speed greater than reasonable or proper under all

existing circumstances.

• In a careless, reckless, or negligent manner so as to endanger the

person or property of another or to cause injury or damage thereto.

• While under the inﬂuence of intoxicating liquor or narcotics or habit-

forming drugs.

• Without a lighted headlight and taillight from sunset to sunrise

and at such other times when conditions provide insufﬁcient lighting

to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles at a distance of ﬁve

hundred feet ahead.

• In any tree nursery or planting in a manner which damages or

destroys growing stock.

• On any public land, ice, or snow in violation of ofﬁcial signs of the

Natural Resource Commission prohibiting such operation in the interest

of safety for persons, property, or the environment.

• In any park, wildlife area, preserve, refuge, game management area,

or any portion of a meandered stream, or any portion of the bed of a

nonmeandered stream which has been identiﬁed as a navigable stream

or river by rule adopted by the Department and which is covered by

water, except on designated riding areas and designated riding trails.

This requirement does not prohibit the use of ford crossings of public

roads or any other ford crossing when used for agricultural purposes; the

operation of construction vehicles engaged in lawful construction, repair,

or maintenance in a streambed; or the operation of an OHV on ice.

• Upon an operating railroad right-of-way. A vehicle may be driven

directly across a railroad right-of-way only at an established crossing

and, notwithstanding any other provisions of law, may, if necessary, use

the improved portion of the established crossing after yielding to all

oncoming trafﬁc.

• A person shall not operate a vehicle with more persons on the

vehicle than it was designed to carry. This requirement does not apply

to a person who operates a vehicle as part of a farm operation as

deﬁned in Iowa Code Section 352.2.

Laws and Regulations

Civil Penalty and Restitution

If on operator is convicted of the offenses listed under the heading

“Unlawful Operation”, additional penalties and restitution can be

added to the criminal charges. See Iowa Code Section 321I.15A for

more details.

Negligence

The owner and operator of an OHV are liable for any injury or damage

occasioned by the negligent operation of the vehicle. The owner of

an OHV shall be liable for any such injury or damage only if the owner

was the operator of the vehicle at the time the injury or damage

occurred or if the operator had the owner’s consent to operate the

vehicle at the time the injury or damage occurred.

Oﬃcer’s Signal to Stop

A person who has received a visual or audible signal from a peace

ofﬁcer to come to a stop shall not operate an OHV in willful or wanton

disregard of the signal, interfere with or endanger the ofﬁcer or any

other person or vehicle, increase speed, or attempt to ﬂee or elude

the ofﬁcer.

Inspections—Warnings—Termination of Use

A peace ofﬁcer may stop and inspect an OHV operated, parked, or

stored on public streets, highways, public lands, or frozen waters

of the state to determine if the vehicle is registered, numbered, or

equipped as required by the Code of Iowa and the Iowa Administrative

Code. The ofﬁcer shall not inspect an area that is not essential to

determine compliance with the requirements. If the ofﬁcer determines

that the vehicle is not in compliance, the ofﬁcer may issue a warning

memorandum to the operator and forward a copy to the DNR. The

warning memorandum shall indicate the items found which are not

in compliance and shall direct the owner or operator of the vehicle to

correct these items and return a copy of the warning memorandum

with the proof of compliance to the DNR within 14 days. If the proof of

compliance is not provided within 14 days, the owner or operator is in

violation of Iowa Code Chapter 321I.

A person who receives a warning memorandum for an OHV shall

stop using the vehicle as soon as possible and shall not operate it on

public streets, highways, public lands, or frozen waters of the state

until the vehicle is in compliance.

Laws and Regulations

Operation on Roadways and Highways

• As of July 1, 2022 registered OHVs can be operated, day or night,

on the following secondary roads:

• an unpaved secondary road

• a paved, undivided two-lane secondary road over the most

direct and accessible route between any of the following

locations:

• an all-terrain vehicle park or trail

• another secondary road on which such vehicles are

authorized to operate

• a city street on which such vehicles are authorized to

operate the vehicle operator’s residence

• a paved, undivided secondary road if authorized by county

board of supervisors

• Registered OHVs can be operated, day or night, on the following

primary roads:

• paved, undivided two-lane primary highway over the most

direct and accessible route between any of the following

locations:

• an all-terrain vehicle park or trail

• a secondary road on which such vehicles are

authorized to operate

• a city street on which such vehicles are authorized to

operate

• the vehicle operator’s residence

• To operate on the roadway, an OHV must:

• be registered

• have an operational headlight, tail and brake lights, horn and

rear view mirror

• To operate on OHV on the roadway, the driver must:

• keep speed below 35 mph

• be at least 18 years of age

Laws and Regulations

• have and carry a valid driver’s license

• carry valid proof of liability insurance

• operate headlights at all times while the vehicle is on the

roadway

• OHV’s may not be driven on County roadways that are marked for

construction closures or detours that restrict normal motor vehicle

trafﬁc.

• All cities may regulate the operation of OHV trafﬁc within city limits.

A city may not charge a fee to operate such vehicles within the city.

Use on Snowmobile Trails

OHVs are not allowed to be operated on snowmobile trails except

where designated by the controlling authority and the primary

snowmobile trail sponsor.

Equipment Requirements (this is not an exhaustive list)

• Mufﬂers. No person shall operate an OHV that is constructed or

altered in a manner that noise emitted from the machine exceeds

96 decibels on the A scale when measured in the manner prescribed

in the revised 2008-05, Society of Automotive Engineers Standard

J1287, titled “Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of

Stationary Motorcycles.”

• Headlights must be illuminated at all times when operating on

roadways.

• Brakes. Every OHV shall be equipped with working brakes.

Vehicle Identiﬁcation Number (VIN)

• Every OHV shall have a vehicle identiﬁcation number assigned and

afﬁxed as required by the DNR.

• The DNR may assign a VIN to an OHV when the serial number on

the machine is destroyed or obliterated or the machine is homebuilt

or rebuilt. If a machine has a VIN which is not legible, the owner

must submit to the DNR an afﬁdavit which describes the machine. In

cooperation with the County Recorder, the DNR shall assign a VIN to

the machine.

Laws and Regulations

• The DNR will issue the owner a decal bearing the new VIN which

shall be afﬁxed to the machine by a Conservation Ofﬁcer as follows:

• All-terrain vehicle. The VIN shall be afﬁxed to the frame under

the seat.

• Off-road motorcycle.The VIN shall be afﬁxed to the steering yoke.

• Off-road utility vehicle. The VIN shall be afﬁxed to the frame

under the seat.

• The machine shall be registered and titled using the new VIN and

not the former serial number.

Carrying a Firearm on an OHV

• A person shall not operate or ride an OHV with a ﬁrearm in the

person’s possession unless it is unloaded and enclosed in a carrying

case, except as otherwise provided by law. However, a nonambulatory

person may carry an uncased and unloaded ﬁrearm while operating

or riding an OHV.

• A person may operate or ride an OHV with a loaded ﬁrearm,

whether concealed or not, without a permit to carry weapons, if the

person operates or rides on land owned or possessed by the person,

and the person’s conduct is otherwise lawful.

• If a person is operating or riding on an OHV on land that is not

owned or possessed by the person, the person may operate or ride

the OHV with a loaded pistol or revolver, whether concealed or not,

and the person’s conduct is otherwise lawful.

• A person shall not discharge a ﬁrearm while on an OHV, except

that a nonambulatory person may discharge a ﬁrearm from an OHV

while lawfully hunting if the person is not operating or riding a moving

OHV.

Hunting and OHVs

The following regulations apply when using OHVs for hunting purposes:

•

It is illegal to chase or use a machine to assist in the taking of deer,

turkey, and migratory game birds.

•

It is illegal to operate an OHV on DNR wildlife management areas.

•

Physically handicapped persons may apply for a permit to operate

a vehicle on DNR lands. Issuance of the permit is required prior to

accessing the land by a motorized device.

Laws and Regulations

•

You must obtain permission from a landowner to operate an OHV on

private land.

•

For hunting rules related to a nonambulatory person, see

[571 IAC 98.2(2)] Turkey and [571 IAC 106.7(6)] Deer.

Accidents

Whenever an OHV is involved in an accident resulting in injury or death

to any person or property damage amounting to $1,500 or more,

the operator of the vehicle or a person acting for the operator shall

immediately notify the county sheriff or another law enforcement

agency in the state.

If the accident occurred on public land or ice, a designated riding area,

or a designated riding trail under the jurisdiction of the Natural Resource

Commission, the operator shall ﬁle a report of the accident with the

Department within 72 hours. A copy of the Operator Incident Report

Form can be obtained from a Department Law Enforcement Ofﬁcer

calling the DNR at 515-725-8200, or going to www.iowadnr.gov/Things-

To-Do/Off-Highway-Vehicles, and selecting Operator Incident Report.

Proof of Insurance

Iowa Code Section 321.20B provides that a person shall not drive a

motor vehicle on the highways of this state unless ﬁnancial liability

coverage, as deﬁned in Iowa Code Section 321.1(24B), is in effect for

the motor vehicle and unless the driver has in the motor vehicle the

proof of ﬁnancial liability coverage card issued for the motor vehicle.

The exception for OHVs was rescinded effective July 1, 2012. Please

see Iowa Code Section 321.20B for more details.

Special Events

The Department may authorize the holding of organized special

events at the designated OHV parks as deﬁned in Iowa Code Chapter

321I. The Department shall issue permits which address the conduct

of special events and shall designate the equipment and facilities

necessary for the safe operation of OHVs and for the safety of

operators, participants, and observers in the special events. Endurance

races, head-to-head competition, and nonmotorized events will not

be permitted. A special event shall not be conducted without written

authorization of the Department.

Education/Safety/Stewardship

Education

ATV riders in the state of Iowa who are ages 12 through 17 are

required to complete an approved ATV Safety Course and carry the

Iowa ATV Safety Certiﬁcate with them while riding on designated riding

areas, designated public land, and public ice.

ATVCourse.com

The DNR has collaborated with Fresh Air Educators to make an online

certiﬁcation offering available for the DNR ATV Education Program.

State-speciﬁc information regarding riding opportunities, laws, and

regulations is a component of the course.

This is a managed course which features interactive exercises for

students as well as narrated content to assist with different learning

styles. The course fee is $34.95, which includes the $5 DNR

education certiﬁcate fee. Students must pass a ﬁnal exam with 80%

accuracy to earn their certiﬁcate. There is no riding component for this

course.

Students must be 12 or older to earn their ATV education certiﬁcate

through www.ATVCourse.com.

Education/Safety/Stewardship

An education certiﬁcate issued by the Iowa Department of Natural

Resources is recognized by most states. Please call ahead to your

destination state to check their requirements.

Safety

• Never use drugs or alcohol while riding.

• Do not carry more passengers than the vehicle design allows.

• Seatbelts must be worn when operating or riding in a side-by-side.

• Safety equipment installed by the manufacturer should not be

removed or altered.

• Drive only in designated areas, at a safe speed, and use care when

turning and crossing slopes.

• If towing a trailer with an ATV or side-by-side, practice how the

weight and load affects the machine on ﬂat surfaces prior to hauling

items in areas with a slope.

• Read and follow the operator’s manual and warning labels.

Size of Machine vs. Size of Rider Considerations for ATVs

LEG LENGTH—there should be a minimum of three inches of

clearance between the seat and the top inseam of the pants. This is

needed to maintain balance on the footrests when turning and riding

over hills and rough terrain. While seated, the thigh should be roughly

parallel to the ground.

FOOT LENGTH—a rider should be able to reach the brake by rotating

the foot on the footrest.

ARM LENGTH—a rider’s arms should be long enough to turn the

handlebars and maintain a ﬁrm grip, operate the throttle comfortably

when the handle is extended fully in a turn, and operate the brake

lever.

STRENGTH—in addition to reaching the controls, a rider must have the

strength to operate the controls.

WEIGHT—a rider should have enough body weight to be able to affect

the operation of the machine by shifting his or her weight. This is a

key element in being an active rider.

Right-ﬁt Principle for an ORV—The operator should be able to place

both feet ﬂat on the ﬂoor while seated upright with their back resting

ﬁrmly against the seat back.

Education/Safety/Stewardship

Stewardship

Tread Lightly!

By practicing the Tread Lightly! principles you not only protect the

outdoors, you also protect access to recreation opportunities for years

to come.

Travel Responsibly on trails or in permitted areas. Don’t blaze a new

trail or cut across switchbacks. Respect closed gates and regulatory

signs. Stay out of designated wilderness areas. Drive over and not

around obstacles to avoid widening the trail.

Respect the rights of others, including private property owners, to

allow them to enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed.

Educate yourself by obtaining maps and regulations from public

agencies, planning for your trip, taking recreational skills classes, and

knowing how to use and operate your equipment safely.

Avoid sensitive areas such as meadows, wetlands, and streams,

unless on designated routes. This protects wildlife habitat and

sensitive soils from damage. Prevent ﬁres by equipping your ATV with

a spark arrestor. Keep engine noise to a minimum. Avoid riparian

areas, the green strips of vegetation along rivers and lakes. Cross soft

or muddy areas slowly to avoid spinning your wheels.

Do your part by leaving the area better than you found it. Dispose of

waste properly—pack out what you pack in. Stay off soft, wet trails that

are easily damaged by vehicles. Avoid creating dust. Cross streams

only at designated crossings.

Tread Lightly! is a nonproﬁt organization with a mission to promote

responsible outdoor recreation through ethics education and

stewardship.

For more information, please visit www.treadlightly.org.

Education/Safety/Stewardship

Trail Ettiquette

• Respect all trail restrictions

and use only trails open to

OHV use.

• Be considerate of other riders

on the trail.

• Ride on the right side of the

trail.

• Slow down when passing.

• Slow down when sight lines

are poor.

• Keep speeds low around other

riders.

• Keep noise and dust down.

• Keep your ears open – no

earbuds or headphones.

Riders need to be able to hear

and communicate with other

riders and recreationalists.

• Yield the right-of-way to those

passing you from behind or

traveling uphill.

• Report all illegal riding.

• Carry out what you carry in.

Iowa OHV Association

The Iowa OHV Association (IOHVA) is the recognized state association

for Iowa advocating for off-highway vehicle recreation opportunities

and rider concerns.

IOHVA works closely with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

and the clubs that manage the current 8 designated riding areas in

the state. IOHVA strives to be the leader in strategic planning efforts

and inclusion of interested parties in the state, including legislators,

vehicle dealers, and industry representatives.

In addition to supporting the sport, IOHVA also promotes safety,

education, and awareness to the enthusiasts that ride in Iowa. IOHVA

holds events at the parks during the peak riding season to serve

as a resource for education requirements, regulations, safety, rider

responsibility, opportunities, and general information of interest to the

riding community.

During the year IOHVA holds several rides at the parks which promote

awareness of safety and health campaigns of interest to its members,

rides for disabled individuals to make them aware of other mobility

devices available to them, a veterans ride to express appreciation for

their service, as well as rides for elected ofﬁcials to make them aware

of recreational opportunities in Iowa as well as highlight economic

development opportunities in Iowa.

IOHVA holds quarterly meetings and rides for its members and has an

annual meeting in January. To learn more about the association, the

parks, the clubs, and how to get more involved, go to

www.IowaOHV.org

DNR-Designated OHV Park Rules

General Rules

• Machines registered in Iowa must have an Iowa registration decal

afﬁxed to the machine and the registration certiﬁcate must be carried

on the operator or machine.

• Machines registered in another state must have their valid

registration decal and DNR Nonresident user permit afﬁxed to the

machine.

• Helmets are required for all operators and passengers on riding

areas and parking and loading areas.

• Passengers are only allowed on machines which are designed by

the manufacturer to carry a passenger. Riding double on all other

machines is prohibited.

• Users of the park must comply with all posted signs.

• Hours of operation are sunrise to sunset, unless posted differently.

• All machines must have working brakes.

• All OHVs operated between sunset and sunrise shall display a

lighted headlight and taillight.

• All vehicles and trailers must be parked in designated parking

areas and may not be left unattended in any park drive access.

• Unauthorized vehicles and hauling equipment may be towed at

owner’s expense.

• Operation in a careless, reckless, or negligent manner or at

excessive speeds is prohibited.

• Operation of a machine while under the inﬂuence of alcohol or

narcotics is prohibited.

• Sound-level limits are enforced. Aftermarket products may exceed

acceptable levels (96 decibels).

• Consumption or possession of alcohol in the designated riding

area is prohibited.

• Pets are not allowed in designated riding areas. They are permitted

in parking areas.

Age-related Operation Guidelines

• All-terrain Vehicles.

• Under 12 years of age—operation must be under the direct

supervision of a responsible parent or guardian of at least

18 years of age who is experienced in ATV operation and who

possesses a valid driver’s license as deﬁned in Iowa Code

DNR-Designated OHV Park Rules

Section 321.1, or the operator is taking an ATV education

course and is under the direct supervision of a certiﬁed

instructor. Direct supervision means maintaining visual and

verbal contact at all times.

• Ages 12 through 17—must have a valid ATV education

certiﬁcate in their possession. The supervision rule does not

apply to these riders.

• Off-road Motorcycles.

• Under 12 years of age—operation must be under the direct

supervision of a responsible parent or guardian of at least 18

years of age who is experienced in ORM operation and who

possesses a valid driver’s license as deﬁned in Iowa Code

Section 321.1.

• Ages 12 through 17—education certiﬁcate is not required.

Operation with Passengers

• Anyone operating an OHV with a passenger must possess a valid

driver’s license as deﬁned in Iowa Code Section 321.1.

• Number of passengers cannot exceed manufacturer’s

recommended capacity.

• For an ATV or motorcycle, the passenger must be seated behind

the operator and have the ability to securely hold on to the passenger

handles or operator.

• For an ORV, a passenger must be able to place both feet ﬂat on

the ﬂoorboards with their back resting against the seat back.

Oﬀ-road Utility Vehicles (ORVs) Requirements

• The vehicle must be equipped with a roll-over protection system

(ROPS) installed by the manufacturer.

• The vehicle must be equipped with manufacturer seat belts or

equivalent that are in good working order.

• Passengers must wear seat belts at all times and must keep feet

and hands inside of the vehicle while the vehicle is in motion.

• Vehicles cannot be home built or substantially modiﬁed from the

manufacturer’s speciﬁcations.

• Anyone operating an ORV must possess a valid driver’s license as

deﬁned in Iowa Code Section 321.1.

Iowa DNR-Designated OHV Parks

Bluﬀ Creek OHV Park

This is a 350-acre park with most of the area accessible for riding.

The area is an abandoned coal mine that has been developed into

a riding area. There are approximately 20 miles of trails, steep hill

climbs, deep pits, and four motocross tracks. One track is dedicated

to novice and beginner riders. One track is extremely challenging and

is often called the “gravity cavity”. The park is not currently signed

open to ORV, or side-by-side, use.

The park is open year-round, but is closed when weather or trail

conditions do not permit riding. Thirteen primitive camping sites are

available, with ﬂush toilets, shower stalls, and water spigots.

BLUFF CREEK OHV PARK

1625 325th St; Eddyville, IA/Mahaska County

Managed by: Iowa Partners of NOHVCC

Contact Information: 641-670-0240

DNR Park Ranger: Chad Malone 641-660-5552

Gypsum City OHV Park

Gypsum City OHV Park is located on the southeast corner of Fort

Dodge. The park is approximately 800 acres in size and includes 60

miles of trails for use by ATVs, side-by-sides, and off-road motorcycles.

The park also includes a 1.5 mile motocross track, an amateur

supercross track, a skills development course, a .4 mile kids’ track, and

a beginner circle track. Trails within the park range from open prairie for

novice riders to heavily timbered areas for more advanced riders and

include water crossings and mudding areas. Trailhead signs within the

park will indicate what machines are allowed on certain trails.

Park amenities include an open shelter with picnic tables and grill,

men’s and women’s restrooms, and ﬁshing ponds. There is also a

campground with 29 campsites that can be reserved, and 3 tiny homes

that sit on existing sites (which can also be reserved), that offers both

full hook up and electric sites. Site amenities include water, electricity,

sewer, picnic table, and grill. A men’s and women’s shower/restroom

is also available. The campground will be open April 15–October 15

annually. To reserve a campsite, go to www.mycountyparks.com.

Tremendous effort has been invested in developing this riding area.

Please stay on marked trails and follow all posted signs.

GYPSUM CITY OHV PARK

2390 Mill Road; Fort Dodge, IA/Webster County

Managed by: Webster County Conservation Board

Contact Information: 515-576-4258, www.mycountyparks.com

DNR Park Rangers: Eddie Elkin 515-408-5568 &

Matt Peterson 712-260-9059

Lake View OHV Park

Lakeview OHV park has 160 acres of varying terrain. The park

features an “A” level motocross practice track, a “B” level motocross

practice track, an off-road utility vehicle practice track, a pit bike

track, and two kiddie tracks. The tracks are designed to be used by

both motorcycles and ATVs. There is also a very extensive trail network

consisting of sand trails, mud trails, hard pack trails, some hill climbs,

and single-track trails. There are restrooms on site. No camping is

permitted. There are multiple state and federal campsites within a

ﬁve-mile radius of the park.

The park is open year-round, with the exception of when weather and

trail conditions do not permit riding.

The Lakeview OHV park offers something for everyone. From the

beginning rider to the advanced rider, there is enough variety to keep

things interesting for all skill levels. The park is maintained throughout

the year to keep the riding area as safe as possible.

LAKEVIEW OHV PARK

3877 140th St NE; Solon, IA/Johnson County

Managed by: Lakeview Off Road Riders

Contact Information: 319-936-0045, info@lakeviewohv.com

DNR Park Ranger: Jason Dykstra 319-330-9116

Nicholson-Ford OHV Park

Nicholson-Ford is a 120-acre off-highway vehicle park open to off-road

motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, and off-road utility vehicles. There are

approximately 20 miles of tight, river-bottom, wooded trails for your

enjoyment.

NICHOLSON FORD OHV PARK

2002 Marion St; Marshalltown, IA/Marshall County

Managed by: Iowa River OHV Club

Contact Information:

DNR Park Ranger:

Rathbun OHV Park

The 125-acre Rathbun Off-Highway Vehicle Area (ROHVA) is located

in the northwest corner of Appanoose County. Established in an

abandoned rock quarry in 1993, the park provides riders of registered

ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes an impeccable riding experience for novice

and seasoned riders alike. Trails, consisting of dirt and rock, follow

the lay of the land meandering around trees, rocks, hills, and along

the lakeshore. Most are wide enough to accommodate off-road utility

vehicles. Trails for leisurely cruising or testing the skills of advanced

riders await visitors to the park. ROHVA also features a practice track

and a tot lot, which is fenced as a separate area for safety and can

be monitored by parents. There are two shelters with picnic tables

available as well as water hydrants and a vault toilet.

The park is open year-round except for closure due to weather or trail

conditions that do not permit riding.

RATHBUN OHV PARK

14230 Highway S70; Plano, IA/Appanoose County

Managed by: South Central Dirt Riders

Contact Information: scdrroh[email protected]

DNR Park Ranger: CJ Hughes 641-895-2222

River Valley OHV Park

River Valley OHV Park is closed until further notice. The park has

signage posted and all use of the park is currently restricted. For more

information, please visit www.iowadnr.gov/Things-To-Do/Off-Highway-

Vehicles.

RIVER VALLEY OHV PARK

Veterans Memorial Hwy; Council Bluffs, IA/Pottawattamie County

Managed by:

Contact Information:

DNR Park Ranger:

Riverview OHV Park

This 180-acre park is located in Black Hawk County along the Cedar

River, which allows for scenic riverside trails. The park has two

motocross tracks, a four-mile perimeter track, and a pee wee track.

ATVs, ORMs, and side-by-sides no wider than 65” are allowed to

operate at the park. There is a picnic shelter and pit toilet available.

Park is open year-round except when weather or trail conditions do

not permit riding.

RIVERVIEW OHV PARK

2531 Kenyon; Waterloo, IA/Blackhawk County

Managed by: Trailblazers Off-Road Club

Contact Information: www.trailblazersoffroadclub.com

DNR Park Ranger: Chase Burtness 515-336-3300

Tama OHV Park

This 300-acre park is located in Tama County and features tight,

wooded trails with some hills, a 15-mile perimeter trail, a kids’ track,

and a motocross track. Camping features 10 electric campsites and

13 primitive campsites. This park is open to off-road motorcycle, all-

terrain vehicle, and off-road utility vehicle use.

Park is open year round, except when weather or trail conditions do

not permit riding.

TAMA OHV PARK

226 S State St; Tama, IA/Tama County

Managed by: Club S.P.O.R.T.

Contact Information: www.clubsporttama.com

DNR Park Ranger:

Trail Signs

Bridge Markers

Trail Closures

Stop

Ahead

Yield

Ahead

Intersection

Ahead

Trail

Marker

Websites

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

www.iowadnr.gov

515-725-8200

Online Education Course Oﬀering

www.ATVCourse.com

General OHV Information

www.iowadnr.gov/Things-To-Do/Off-Highway-Vehicles

OHV Park Information

www.iowadnr.gov/OHVParks

OHV Park Closures