New Iowa Law Lets Gun Owners Carry Loaded Firearms on Off-Road Vehicles, ATVs and Snowmobiles Without a Permit

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DES MOINES, IA — Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed Senate File 106 into law on May 6, 2025, authorizing the lawful possession of loaded firearms while operating or riding snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) under specific conditions.

Previously, Iowa law required that firearms transported on snowmobiles or ATVs be unloaded and stored in a carrying case. SF 106 removes those restrictions, now permitting the carry of a loaded firearm—whether concealed or not—when on land that the person owns, possesses, or rents, provided the individual’s conduct is otherwise lawful. Additionally, the law allows for the carry of a loaded pistol or revolver, even on land not owned or controlled by the person, again provided the activity remains lawful.

The bill also maintains the prohibition on discharging a firearm from a moving snowmobile or ATV. However, nonambulatory individuals are allowed to discharge a firearm from a stationary snowmobile or ATV while lawfully hunting.

Key provisions of SF 106 include:

• Operators and riders may carry loaded firearms on ATVs and snowmobiles without a carry permit if on their own property or with lawful presence.
• Loaded pistols and revolvers may be carried on others’ land as long as all other conduct is lawful.
• Firearm discharge from a moving vehicle remains prohibited; exceptions exist for nonambulatory hunters on stationary vehicles.
• Repeals Section 483A.36 of the Iowa Code, which had previously prohibited certain vehicle-based firearm activities.

The legislation passed both chambers with strong majorities: 93-3 in the House and 42-8 in the Senate.

This new law aligns Iowa with other states that have similarly modernized their firearm transportation laws to reflect responsible gun ownership and to support hunters and rural residents who rely on off-road vehicles.

This change is a win for lawful gun owners, particularly those in rural areas who often travel their own property by ATV or snowmobile. By eliminating unnecessary restrictions, Iowa’s legislature has taken a step toward recognizing the practicality of carrying a loaded firearm while off-roading, particularly for self-defense in remote areas. The law strikes a balance by keeping discharge prohibitions intact except for nonambulatory hunters, maintaining safety while affirming Second Amendment rights.