Hunters must identify public-land deer stands and fur traps

A person placing a tree stand for deer hunting on public land must display the owner's department-issued number on a metal plate. This applies to tree stands placed on public land for deer hunting. A person who fails to identify a stand properly is subject to a $30 scheduled fine. The stand's owner is not liable for property damage or injury caused by another person's use of it. The natural resource commission must adopt rules to carry out the stand requirements.

Traps and snares used to take fur-bearing animals must carry a metal tag with the user's department number or name and address. The tagging rule covers traps and snares used to take fur-bearing animals. Traps and snares must be checked at least once every 24 hours, except those placed entirely underwater. Officers may confiscate those that are not properly labeled or checked. Colony traps are limited to muskrats as determined by commission rule. Box traps that can catch more than one game or fur-bearing animal at a setting are prohibited; a valid hunting license is required to box-trap cottontail rabbits or squirrels. The 24-hour check rule does not apply to traps and snares placed entirely underwater.

A fur dealer license fee may be no more than $50 a year. The limit applies to resident and nonresident fur dealers. The limit applies to the annual fee for a license issued under this section.

A landowner, the owner's agent, or a drainage district may destroy a den or breach or alter a beaver dam to protect the owner's property. This applies when the action is taken to protect the owner's property.

The department issues depredation and deer shooting permits to eligible landowners or tenants after receiving the landowner's written approval. Eligible landowners and tenants are those defined in Iowa law who meet the stated loss requirements. The landowner or tenant must have at least $1,000 in economic loss to agriculture, horticulture, or silviculture operations from wild animals, and the landowner must give written approval. Conservation officers may issue permits. Deer shooting permits may also be issued for use in areas where public safety may be an issue. The department issues permits after receiving the required written approval.